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Adventure in Belize

Belize is unlike any other Caribbean destination. It combines the crystal clear waters of the Barrier Reef with the dense jungles of the Cayo District inland, bordering Guatemala. Stay on the coast in Placencia at a high-end boutique resort. This resort offers a curated experience in the Belize Barrier Reef with rooms overlooking the turquoise water offering an unforgettable beach retreat.

Brian McMahon
Scenset travel curator

You may know Belize as the only English-speaking country in Central America, but language will be the last thing that comes to mind after visiting. Once you’ve been there, just hearing the word “Belize” will make you think about tropical cays off the coast, clear Caribbean water, coral reefs as big as a city, and ancient Mayan ruins hiding among the jungle. More than anything, you’ll remember the feeling of finding a place that radiates pure bliss everywhere you look.

Tuesday, 06 – Monday, 12 August, 2024 · 6 nights
Your Family Trip to Belize
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Trip Overview

August 6 – 12, 2024 | Alaia Belize

  • 6 nights
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Local Contacts

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in Belize you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

DESTINATION

  • Local Contact: Your Hotel Concierge | +501 226 3739. All day tours and transfers are booked via your hotel, so please visit the hotel front desk, or call the hotel concierge if you need any further information on anything.


Scenset

  • Your Curator: will be provided
  • Your Traveler Relations Rep: will be provided
  • Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027


Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.

Destination Information
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Weather

In August, San Pedro experiences warm and humid weather. It's normal to experience rain/cloud cover in the mornings before brightening up throughout the day. The average daytime temperature ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C). Despite the rain, August is a great time to visit San Pedro as it is less crowded, and you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches and various outdoor activities.

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Travel Requirements

U.S. travelers to Belize do not need any special visa when visiting for tourism purposes.

Read more about entry requirements here.

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These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

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Packing Suggestions

We recommend packing:

  • light clothing suitable for warm weather
  • light rain jacket or umbrella for the occasional shower
  • tennis shoes
  • water shoes
  • swimwear
  • sun hat
  • sunscreen
  • bug repellent
  • backpack for day trips
  • USD in cash for National Park fees (you'll find more info on this in your itinerary below)
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Money in Belize

The official currency in Belize is the Belize dollar, and the exchange rate is pegged to the U.S. dollar:

$1 USD = 2 Belize dollars

Both U.S. dollars and Belize dollars are accepted in all places of business. Most prices will specify either "USD" or "BZ$", but ask if it's unclear.

If you use an ATM, you will receive Belize dollars.

Credit cards are accepted in hotels and bigger restaurants/shops. However, smaller businesses are often cash only.

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Tipping

Tipping isn't mandatory in Belize, but it is appreciated! Tips are usually given in Belizean Dollars (BZD) or US Dollars (USD), both of which are widely accepted. Here’s a general guide for tipping in Belize:

  • Restaurants: If you've received good service and you'll like to leave a tip, a 10-15% tip is recommended.
  • Taxi Drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not common practice in Belize, however you can round up the fare or give a small tip if the driver helps with luggage or provides exceptional service.
  • Private Drivers: If you'd like to tip your driver on a pre-booked private car service, a tip of $1-2 USD per person is appreciated for longer trips, especially if the driver assists with luggage.
  • Guides: If you'd like to tip your guide, it's customary to tip around $5-10 USD per person for a half-day tour and $10-15 USD per person for a full-day tour, however this depends on your experience and on your group size.
  • Housekeepers: We would recommend tipping around $2-4 USD per night for housekeepers.
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Spotify Playlists

We have designed some great playlists for you to enjoy during your trip to Belize!

  • Summer Chill is the perfect soundtrack for basking in the sun and enjoying the laid-back island life.
  • Lazy Beach Days is designed for you to unwind on the beach and relax.
Tuesday, 06 August, 2024
Day 1: Welcome to Belize!

Catch your early flight to make the most of your first day in Belize, arriving in time for a lazy afternoon on the beach to rest up after your travels.

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Immigration

After proceeding through customs & immigration, collect your bags and make your way to your connecting flight.

Check in for your flight to San Pedro at the Tropic Air ticket counter to receive your boarding passes.

Booking Reference: will be provided

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Welcome to Belize!

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3:55pm - Private Transfer

You'll be picked up at the airport for the short car ride from the airport to your resort. When you arrive in the luggage area of the airport, look for your greeter holding a sign that says "Alaia Belize."

  • Meeting time: Afternoon
  • Meeting place: Arrivals hall
  • Duration: 10 minutes
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


Booked by Scenset.

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Check in

Check in to your accommodation.

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6:15 p.m. | Dinner at Blue Water Grill

Blue Water Grill overlooks the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea, specializing in “Island Cuisine with a Twist” and it has earned a reputation as one of the best in town.

  • Time: Early evening
  • Booked under name: will be provided
  • Number of people: 6


Blue Water Grill is a 10-minute golf cart ride from your hotel or a 30-minute walk along the beach.

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Restaurant Recommendations

Ambergris Caye is home to plenty of beachside restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood. Here are some of the island's highlights.

  • Elvi's Kitchen: The most iconic restaurant in San Pedro, this establishment has been serving great food for decades. Visit on Friday nights for their epic Mayan feast!
  • Hidden Treasure: An upscale restaurant that's special for a date night, with candlelit tables for extra ambiance. They offer a free shuttle from your hotel.
  • Frenchy's: Blending local Caribbean flavors with French haute cuisine, Frenchy's is a delectable choice for a memorable meal.
  • El Fogon: This local favorite is especially popular for lunch. The menu changes each day and it serves authentic Belizean cuisine cooked over a firepit: el fogon.


This is a recommendation only.

Your Stay: Marriott Alaia Belize

Why we love it for you?: Alaia Belize is where luxury upscale amenities meet a laidback locally-inspired Caribbean living. You'll have exclusive access to six restaurants, four bars, and three pools. Experience the Caribbean charm of historic San Pedro by golf cart, or explore even further for unique experiences to the reef and rainforest.

Sun always shines on Ambergris Caye
Sun always shines on Ambergris Caye
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Alaia Belize
Wednesday, 07 August, 2024
Day 2: Snorkeling Experience

Today, you'll snorkel with sharks!

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Today, please bring swimwear, sunscreen, sun hat, a towel and currency to pay your National Park fee.

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8:30am - Swim With the Sharks (and Rays and Turtles) Private Tour

Nurse sharks are like the labradors of sharks, and you'll get to jump in the water and swim with these gentle creatures. You'll also get to snorkel alongside stingrays and sea turtles that call the Hol Chan Marine Reserve home.

  • Meeting time: Late morning
  • Meeting point: Alaia Resort Dock
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Includes: Guide, snorkel gear, bottled water, and snacks
  • You must pay a fee to enter the park. This must be paid in cash on arrival.
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please visit the hotel front desk or call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


Booked by Scenset.

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Alaia Belize
Thursday, 08 August, 2024
Day 3: Blue Hole!

Today, you'll visit the famous Blue Hole.

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Today, please bring swimwear, sunscreen, sun hat, a towel and money to pay your National Park fee.

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5:30am - Blue Hole Snorkel Trip

No trip to Belize is complete without a visit to the famous Blue Hole. You'll have an early start on this full-day snorkeling trip which takes you to Lighthouse Reef, the Long Caye Aquarium, and finally the famous Blue Hole. You'll see all kinds of wildlife on this adventure in one of the most unique landscapes on the planet!

After snorkeling, you'll have lunch on half moon caye.

  • Meeting time: Early morning
  • Meeting place: Alaia Resort Dock
  • Boat ride duration to Blue Hole: Approximately 2.5 hours
  • Duration: A full day
  • Included: Guide, snorkel gear, drinking water, light breakfast, and local-style lunch
  • You must pay a fee to enter the park. This must be paid in cash on arrival
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please visit the hotel front desk or call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


*This is a shared small-group experience.

Booked by Scenset.

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Alaia Belize
Friday, 09 August, 2024
Day 4: At Leisure at Alaia

Today is yours to explore independently.

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Spend today relaxing and exploring Ambergris Caye at your own pace.

You may enjoy:

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Recommended: Visit to Secret Beach

Even though "Secret Beach" is now one of the most well-known stretches of sand on Ambergris Caye, it's still a worthwhile place to visit.

Located on the western side of Ambergris Caye, Secret Beach gained popularity for its shallow and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. The beach is known for its laid-back vibe, with several beach bars and restaurants offering refreshments and local cuisine.

Visitors to Secret Beach can enjoy water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing. The area is also known for its beautiful sunsets.

The best way to get to Secret Beach is to take a rented golf cart from your hotel or a taxi.

This is a recommendation only.

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Rest & Relax

Bask in the sun on pristine beaches or take leisurely strolls along the shore around Alaia Belize. The world-class spa offers rejuvenating treatments in a serene, tropical ambiance, and the resort's restaurants serve exceptional cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local Belizean dishes. Dive into the crystal-clear Caribbean waters for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or start your day with yoga and wellness classes. Additionally, explore the charming Ambergris Caye on bicycles provided by the resort.

This is a recommendation only.

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7pm - Dinner at Elvi's

Tonight, dine at Elvi's Kitchen, one of the most iconic and longest-running restaurants on Ambergris Caye.

  • Time: Evening
  • Booked under name: will be provided
  • Number of people: 6
  • Location: A short drive or walk from your hotel


Booked by scenset - paid locally.

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Alaia Belize
Saturday, 10 August, 2024
Day 5: Private Boat Experience
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9am - Private Snorkeling, Fishing and BBQ Trip

Embark on a thrilling private full-day snorkeling adventure in the pristine waters around Amgergris Caye. Dive into the crystal-clear Caribbean sea to explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter an array of marine life, and bask in the natural beauty of these breathtaking Belizean marine reserves around the area knowns as Mexican Rocks.

You'll get to fish on the boat, catching local specialties like barracuda, snapper, and grouper. Enjoy a picnic lunch with your freshly caught fish barbecued right on the boat.

  • Meeting time: Morning
  • Meeting place: Alaia Resort Dock
  • Duration: About 6.5 hours
  • Included: Guide, snorkel gear, drinking water, soft drinks, light snacks, and a beach BBQ
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please visit the hotel front desk or call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


Booked by a user.

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Alaia Belize
Sunday, 11 August, 2024
Day 6: Day Trip to the Mainland
Visit Xunantunich - Belize's 2nd Largest Mayan Ruins
Visit Xunantunich - Belize's 2nd Largest Mayan Ruins
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For today's tour, please bring sunscreen, an extra set of dry clothes, water shoes, tennis shoes, swimsuit, towel, bug repellant and a picture of your passport.

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7:15am - Xunantunich Ruins, Ziplining and Cave Tubing

Embark on an exhilarating adventure, taking a short flight to Belize City on the mainland so you can explore the secrets of Belize's jungles.

You'll take a short flight to Belize City. From there, it's about a 1 hour 45 minute drive to the jungle. Upon arrival, you'll begin by zip lining a total of 6 lines - 3 high lines and 3 lower lines, which will take you over the river and jungle. You'll be zip lining for around 45 minutes. Afterwards, you'll take a short 30 minute drive to the cave, followed by a 30 minute walk through the jungle to the cave entrance. Here, you'll spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes tubing through the cave, while the guides show you different rock formations and crystallization found along the cave’s walls. This visit also includes time exploring Xunantunich, the second largest Mayan ruins in Belize.

  • Meeting time: Early morning
  • Meeting place: Hotel Lobby
  • Flight time: Early morning
  • Flight duration: Around 20 minutes
  • Drive time to Jungle: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Duration: 8-9 hours
  • Included: Breakfast and lunch, plus drinking water and refreshments
  • To board the plane, please bring a picture of your passport on your phone. It is not necessary to bring your physical passport with you
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please visit the hotel front desk or call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


This is a private activity for your family. You'll take a morning flight to the Belize mainland with other guests, but the tour is with your personal guide.

Booked by Scenset.

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Alaia Belize
Monday, 12 August, 2024
Day 7: Departure Day

Sadly, all good things must come to an end. After a final relaxing morning, it's time to start your journey home.

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8am - Private Transfer

You'll be picked up at your hotel for the short car ride to the airport.

  • Meeting time: Early morning
  • Meeting place: Hotel lobby
  • Duration: About 10 minutes
  • Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please visit the hotel front desk or call Alaia Belize Hotel | +501 226 3739


Booked by Scenset.

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Check-in For Flight

Upon arrival at San Pedro Airport, you must check in at the Tropic Air ticket counter to receive your boarding passes.

Booking Reference: will be provided

Change and cancellation policies

Please refer to our terms & conditions here.