Belize welcomed us with its warm breezes and inviting culture, providing the perfect backdrop for a much-needed wellness retreat with friends. From breathtaking natural wonders to indulgent relaxation, our itinerary was designed to recharge our spirits and immerse us in the beauty of this Central American gem.

Day 1: Arrival and Recharge at Naia Resort
Our adventure began with a series of flights from Canada; there are limited direct flights from Canada. However, if you take an early morning flight with a connection, you can be in Belize by early afternoon and still have most of the day to explore. Once in Belize, it was a short domestic hop from Belize City to Placencia, our first stop. The luxurious Naia Resort greeted us with its calm ambiance and lush surroundings. Eager to settle in, we spent the day soaking up the resort’s offerings, relaxing by the pool, and savouring local cuisine.

Tip: Use the resort’s complimentary bicycles or shuttle to explore Placencia Village for an early taste of Belizean charm. The Tipsy Tuna is a popular spot. 

Day 2: Snorkeling Adventure at Silk Caye and Moho Caye
We headed out early for a day of island hopping and snorkelling. The Silk Caye Marine Reserve, a protected haven since 2003, offered a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with corals, turtles, and tropical fish.

Next, we visited Moho Caye, a larger island with turquoise waters, a sandbar, and vibrant marine life. Families gathered for BBQs, adding a lively atmosphere to the serene island setting.

The afternoon was spent in Placencia Village, wandering its lively streets, shopping for handcrafted gifts, and enjoying sunset views at the pier. Dinner was at 1981, Naia’s signature restaurant, where fresh Belizean flavours were elevated to an art form.

Day 3: Chocolate and Spice Tours
The day began with a Yoga on the pier! We had to wake up early but taking the time for wellness with the rising sun was worth it. 

After breakfast, we took Mayan Chocolate Tour & Spice tour, offered by the resort where we learned to make chocolate using traditional methods. Sampling cacao fruit and crafting our own bars was both fun and enriching. I love learning new things and jumped in at the opportunity to learn how to make chocolate. 

Later, we toured a local Spice Farm, walking through lush plantations of spices and flowering trees, among other things. The aromatic experience deepened our appreciation for Belize’s agricultural heritage.

A quick flight with Tropic Air took us to San Pedro, a lively town on Ambergris Caye known for its stunning beaches and local flavours. Our evening was spent on a walking food tour, sampling traditional Belizean dishes while learning about their cultural significance. We dove into Belize’s culinary diversity, sampling Maya, Mestizo, and Garifuna dishes while sipping on artfully crafted cocktails.

Day 4: Flying Over the Blue Hole and Hol Chan Marine Reserve

In the morning, we ventured to Hol Chan Marine Reserve for an exhilarating snorkelling experience. Swimming among colourful fish, nurse sharks, and stingrays at Shark & Ray Alley was thrilling! If swimming with baby sharks is not for you, you can do on the Hol Chan Marine Reserve portion.

Our afternoon began with the unforgettable Blue Hole flyover. Gazing down at this massive underwater sinkhole—a masterpiece of nature—was awe-inspiring, and we are still talking about this once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

In the evening, we thought creating a painting we could bring back home would be fun. Paint and Splash can be booked, and they’ll come to your room and provide everything you need to create your masterpiece. Our instructor was great, and considering I have no artistic talent, I am delighted with the finished product.

Day 5: Relaxation and Sunset Cruise
Determined to return home rejuvenated, we spent our final day unwinding at Alaia Belize. Spa treatments soothed away any lingering stress, while the pool offered a tranquil spot to reflect on our adventure.

We boarded a dinner cruise, gliding across the Caribbean waters. The glow of the setting sun, the gentle sea breeze, and the rhythmic waves created a magical farewell to Belize.

Reflections

This journey was everything we could have hoped for—thrilling adventures, cultural immersion, and luxurious relaxation. Belize’s rich marine life, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality left us refreshed, inspired, and ready to embrace life’s challenges with renewed energy.

Travel Tips

• Book a Blue Hole flyover early; it’s a popular experience!
• Guides must be booked for snorkelling in marine reserves to protect delicate ecosystems.
• Balance adventure days with relaxation to recharge fully.
• Savor Belizean cuisine—I could go just for the food. 

Belize offers the most incredible snorkelling experiences and we’ll cherish this wellness getaway forever.