Chabil Mar Resort - Belize Blog, Belize Vacation Planning

Belize and Placencia in November and December

Posted on September 24, 2025

November and December is one of the best times to visit Belize and Placencia, and getting to this magnificent country just got a lot easier.

Here are five great reasons to visit Placencia this November:

Escape the Tourist High Season

Starting in November, Belize can sometimes be a crowded place as vacationers wanting to escape the cold weather in North America head to the sunny beaches of Placencia. November and December in Placencia means fewer crowds, cooler breezes, and amazing deals! Discover why it is a hidden gem for travel.

The Reef

Whether you like fishing, sea kayaking, scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, or just working on your tan, there are few places more lovely to visit in November and December than the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Two protected marine conservation areas are located just a few miles offshore from Placencia, and some of the finest dive sites in the world are found in the southern part of the reef near Placencia.

The Jungle

Not to be outdone, the jungles of Belize offer plenty to see and do for visitors as well. Over 600 ancient Maya temples, pyramids, and sacred sites dot the landscape, and there are dozens of national parks, animal sanctuaries, and wildlife refuges to visit. Popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, zip lining, and cave tubing (floating down underground rivers).

The jungle is home to 300 species of orchids, some 600 species of birds, and exotic animals like giant iguanas, black howler monkeys, and jaguars.

Reduced Rates on Accommodation

With November falling during the “off” season, many of the country’s finest hotels and resorts offer steep discounts. Many tourists are surprised to discover just how affordable staying in a luxury beach resort can be in November and December.

If you’re heading to Placencia in November, be sure to stay at Chabil Mar Resort. Located just steps from the beach, Chabil Mar is a multiple award-winning resort and perennial TripAdvisor favorite.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

Why Conch is a Must-Try on Your Belize Vacation

Posted on September 24, 2025

When you visit Belize, one dish you simply cannot miss is conch. This marine mollusk is a delicacy that has been part of Belizean cuisine for generations. Conch season in Belize runs from October 1 to June 30, offering visitors the perfect window to enjoy this fresh, tender seafood. With its slightly sweet, tender meat, conch is not only delicious but also versatile, lending itself to a wide variety of dishes. Whether enjoyed raw, fried, or in a hearty stew, conch offers a flavorful experience that’s sure to enhance your Belize adventure. Here’s how to savor the best of this local favorite.

Conch Ceviche

One of the most popular and refreshing ways to enjoy conch in Belize is in ceviche. Freshly caught conch is diced and mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and local peppers before being marinated in lime juice. The citrus “cooks” the raw conch, giving it a tender texture while enhancing its natural sweetness.

Conch ceviche is a staple at many beachside restaurants and is best enjoyed as an appetizer or a light snack on a warm day. The combination of tangy lime and crisp vegetables brings out the freshness of the conch, making it a perfect dish for those new to this unique seafood. For an authentic Belizean experience, try conch ceviche paired with crispy corn tortilla chips. Whether you’re sitting at a casual beach bar or enjoying the ocean view from your resort, this dish will transport you to the heart of Belize’s culinary tradition.

Conch Fritters

Another must-try conch dish in Belize is conch fritters. These bite-sized morsels are made by combining minced conch with a batter of flour, eggs, onions, and spices, which is then deep-fried to golden perfection. The fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a delightful contrast of textures. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, usually based on lime or spicy mayo, conch fritters make a fantastic appetizer or snack.

Conch fritters capture the flavors of the sea while providing the warmth and comfort of a fried dish. They’re perfect for those who prefer their seafood with a little more crunch and bold seasoning. At Chabil Mar, we serve some of the best conch fritters you’ll find in Belize, making it easy for our guests to enjoy this Belizean favorite without having to leave the resort.

Stewed Conch or Conch Soup

For a substantial, authentic taste of Belize, both stewed conch and conch soup are must-try dishes. Stewed conch is slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and local spices, creating tender, flavorful conch meat that pairs perfectly with traditional sides like rice and beans or plantains. This hearty dish reflects the comforting flavors of Belizean home cooking.

Conch soup offers a lighter but equally satisfying experience. Made with a coconut milk base, this soup combines tender conch with root vegetables like cassava and sweet potatoes. The coconut milk adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor that balances the dish’s spices, resulting in a rich, nourishing meal. Both stewed conch and conch soup showcase the depth of Belizean cuisine, whether you prefer the hearty, slow-cooked stew or the comforting, velvety soup. At Chabil Mar, you can enjoy both dishes, prepared to perfection, giving you a true taste of Belize during your stay.

Experience the Best of Belizean Conch at Chabil Mar

Belize offers a variety of ways to enjoy conch, from the light and refreshing ceviche to the hearty and flavorful stewed conch. At Chabil Mar, we make it easy for you to try the very best of these traditional dishes. Our beachfront resort offers not only luxurious accommodations but also some of the finest Belizean cuisine you’ll find in Placencia. Whether you’re craving fresh conch ceviche or crispy conch fritters, our talented chefs will prepare these local delicacies to perfection.

Chabil Mar has partnered with the best local suppliers to bring you the freshest ingredients, ensuring that every dish reflects the authentic flavors of Belize. Ready to taste the best conch in Belize? Contact us today to book your stay at Chabil Mar and experience the perfect combination of gourmet dining and beachfront luxury for your 2025 vacation.

Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

Placencia Belize Family Vacations: What Makes 2026 the Perfect Year to Visit

Posted on September 23, 2025

Planning a family vacation that excites kids, delights parents, and creates lasting memories can be challenging. You want a destination that blends relaxation with adventure, offers something for all ages, and is easy to reach. In 2026, Placencia Belize checks every box. Known for its natural beauty, friendly atmosphere, and wide range of activities, Placencia is quickly becoming one of the top family travel destinations in the Caribbean. Add the comfort and convenience of staying at Chabil Mar, a luxury beachfront resort, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable family getaway.

Adventure and Discovery for Every Age

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Placencia for a family vacation is the variety of activities available. Families can snorkel at the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, where children and adults alike marvel at colorful fish and gentle sea turtles. For families who prefer exploring on land, Placencia offers day trips to ancient Maya sites like Xunantunich or Lubaantun, which bring history to life for curious minds.

Younger children can enjoy beach play and calm lagoon tours, while teens might prefer kayaking, paddleboarding, or even zip-lining through the jungle. Wildlife lovers will appreciate opportunities to spot howler monkeys, toucans, and iguanas on guided excursions. The accessibility of these activities ensures families can choose experiences that suit their comfort level while still discovering the beauty and wonder of Belize together.

Relaxation and Comfort by the Sea

After full days of exploration, families appreciate a comfortable place to unwind, and that is where Placencia truly shines. Chabil Mar, located along the Placencia Peninsula, provides spacious villas that are ideal for families. With full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private verandas, families have all the space they need to relax. Parents can sip a cocktail while watching the sunset, and kids can play in the pools or on the beach just steps away.

Placencia Village, located only minutes from Chabil Mar, adds another layer of charm to the family experience. Safe and walkable, it is filled with local restaurants, shops, and ice cream stops that children love. Families can easily enjoy authentic Belizean meals together or stroll through the village to soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Unlike crowded tourist hubs, Placencia offers a sense of community and connection that makes families feel at home.

Making Memories That Last a Lifetime

What makes Placencia such a great choice for family vacations in 2026 is how effortlessly it brings people together. Families bond while snorkeling, laugh together during a river tubing adventure, and share stories over beachfront dinners. Every moment is a chance to connect, whether it is learning about local culture, hiking through a nature reserve, or watching dolphins play in the water.

At Chabil Mar, families can also arrange customized tours and activities directly with the resort, removing the stress of planning. From the moment you arrive, the staff ensures that every detail of your vacation is handled with care, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your loved ones. The resort’s intimate size and personal service create an environment where families feel both pampered and cared for.

2026 is shaping up to be an ideal year to visit Placencia, thanks to increased international flight options and growing recognition of Belize as a family-friendly destination. Travelers looking for an alternative to crowded Caribbean resorts will find that Placencia offers everything they want, with fewer crowds and a more authentic experience.

Placencia Belize is more than just a destination; it is a place where families can reconnect, recharge, and create unforgettable stories together. With its perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and community, Placencia is the ideal choice for families in 2026. Book your stay at Chabil Mar and discover why so many families are choosing Placencia for their Belize vacation.

Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call & chat with us via WhatsApp Free Worldwide: +501-633-7547, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Reach Placencia Belize in 2026

Posted on September 23, 2025

Planning a trip to Placencia Belize is exciting, but figuring out how to get there is an important part of the journey. This charming peninsula stretches along the southern coast of Belize, offering a mix of stunning beaches, friendly villages, and luxury resorts like Chabil Mar. Luckily, there are several ways to reach Placencia, and each offers its own unique experience. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the scenic routes by road, or a slower adventure along the sea, Placencia is more accessible than you might think.

Flying into Placencia: The Quickest Route

Most travelers start their journey by flying into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City, the country’s main international gateway. From there, the fastest way to reach Placencia is by taking a short domestic flight. Local airlines such as Maya Island Air and Tropic Air operate multiple daily flights from Belize City to Placencia, and the trip takes just about 35 to 40 minutes.

The aerial views along the way are breathtaking. As you soar over lush jungles, winding rivers, and the Caribbean Sea, you’ll get a preview of the natural beauty that awaits. For families or groups looking to maximize their time on the beach, flying is the most convenient choice. Once you land at Placencia’s small airstrip, Chabil Mar can arrange for a quick transfer, ensuring a seamless journey from the plane to your villa.

Traveling by Road: Scenic and Adventurous

For those who enjoy road trips, traveling to Placencia by land offers a rewarding adventure. After arriving in Belize City, visitors can rent a car or book a private shuttle for the approximately three-and-a-half-hour drive south. The well-paved George Price Highway and Hummingbird Highway guide you through rolling hills, citrus orchards, and mountain views before connecting to the Southern Highway, which leads straight to Placencia Peninsula.

Along the way, you can stop at roadside stands for fresh fruit, visit small villages, or even detour to attractions like the Inland Blue Hole or Mayflower Bocawina National Park. Road travel is ideal for travelers who want to explore Belize at their own pace, and many find the drive itself to be part of the adventure. Chabil Mar can also help arrange shuttle services, making the road journey comfortable and stress-free.

Arriving by Sea: A Unique Experience

While less common, traveling to Placencia by sea is an unforgettable option. Some visitors arrive via private yacht or boat, docking at Placencia’s marina facilities.

Arriving in Placencia by sea gives you a perspective that few travelers experience. The peninsula reveals itself slowly, with the turquoise waters of the Caribbean stretching on one side and the calm lagoon backed by the Maya Mountains on the other. This option appeals to adventurers who enjoy combining sailing with exploration, and it perfectly complements a Belize vacation that focuses on the sea, snorkeling, or diving.

The Journey to Placencia Is Worth It

No matter how you choose to travel, getting to Placencia is part of the adventure. Whether you’re soaring above the jungle, winding through scenic highways, or gliding along the Caribbean, every route offers a chance to see more of Belize. Once you arrive, Chabil Mar is ready to welcome you with luxury villas, personalized service, and easy access to all the beauty and culture Placencia has to offer.

Travel in 2026 is expected to be easier than ever, thanks to expanded international flight options and improved connections within Belize. This makes planning your trip to Placencia both convenient and exciting.

Placencia is waiting, and now that you know how to get here, the only decision left is when to book your stay. Choose Chabil Mar as your home away from home and experience Belize the way it was meant to be enjoyed: relaxed, welcoming, and unforgettable.

United Airlines Expands Belize Flights for High Season 2025

Posted on September 19, 2025

The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has announced the return and expansion of United Airlines’ service to Belize for the upcoming high season. This exciting development provides greater access not only for Belize’s diaspora returning home for the holidays but also for international travelers seeking a tropical getaway to Placencia and beyond. The timing couldn’t be better as Belize continues to shine as one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations for nature, culture, and adventure.

Expanded United Airlines Belize Service

Starting November 1, 2025, United Airlines will resume direct flights to Belize from:

Denver (DEN)
Chicago (ORD)
Newark (EWR)

These routes will once again connect major U.S. cities with Belize, making it easier for travelers across the Midwest, East Coast, and Mountain West to reach this Central American gem. In addition to these flights, United’s existing daily service from Houston (IAH) will continue, offering convenient access for travelers throughout the southern United States.

Adding even more flexibility, United Airlines will bring back its San Francisco (SFO) service beginning December 20, 2025. This means travelers from the U.S. West Coast will have direct flights available just in time for the holidays, opening Belize to an even broader market of vacationers. For many travelers, this expanded schedule will cut down on layovers and provide quicker access to Belize’s beaches, barrier reef, and inland adventures.

More Flights for the Holiday Season

The expansion comes with an increase in flight frequency during the holiday period, traditionally one of the busiest times for Belize travel. From December 18 through December 31, 2025, United Airlines will operate five daily flights out of Belize. On peak travel days—December 20 and December 27—the airline will add a sixth flight to handle increased demand.

This level of connectivity is a significant benefit for international visitors and Belizeans returning home. Families traveling for Christmas or New Year’s will find more options to fit their schedules, while tourists planning a warm-weather escape from the winter cold will have greater flexibility when booking.

A Win for Belize Tourism and Travelers

United Airlines has long been one of the largest international carriers serving Belize, and this latest announcement further solidifies its role in supporting the country’s tourism growth. Expanded airlift not only benefits travelers but also fuels the economy by making it easier for visitors to experience Belize’s natural wonders, vibrant culture, and welcoming hospitality.

“The expansion of United Airlines flights to Belize is a huge win for travelers and for our tourism industry,” said Larry France, Marketing Manager at Chabil Mar. “For guests staying with us in Placencia, these added flight options make it even easier to enjoy the warm weather, beautiful beaches, and personalized experiences that make Belize such a top vacation destination.”

For travelers planning a holiday escape or looking ahead to a 2026 Belize vacation, the timing is ideal. With more flights on the horizon, Placencia’s pristine beaches, thrilling tours, and the luxury accommodations at Chabil Mar are now more accessible than ever. Whether you’re returning home to Belize or visiting for the first time, United Airlines’ expanded service ensures your journey will be smoother, faster, and more convenient.

Now is the perfect time to start planning your Belize getaway. Reserve your stay at Chabil Mar today and take advantage of United Airlines’ expanded flights to make your dream vacation to Placencia a reality.