Globe Beyond Yourself

Back 2 Basics

Earlier this year I took an amazing trip to Belize with the hopes of hitting the reset button.  It was an intentional trip to start the year off on a good note and get back to basics by re-focusing my energy on myself and God.

Why? Because somewhere along the way you get caught up in doing things for others or just staying busy that you neglect your own progress.  Many of the things that take up our time and energy are not necessarily bad but the question is are they fruitful? Are they adding to my life and are they even aligned with my purpose?

Without checking yourself from time to time it’s easy to get caught up in all the things you feel you have to do.  That’s why it’s so important to take time for you and find a renewed energy that only comes from rest.  As a result, I started this year (2018) off with a solo trip to Caye Caulker, Belize with the intention of:

1. Soaking up some sun
2. Taking the time to “Go Slow”
3. Catching up on reading
4. Reflecting on my goals and dreams

What better place to do all the above than Caye Caulker, where the slogan of this little island off the coast of Belize is to literally “Go Slow.”  I specifically chose this island because of it’s laid-back vibe and its one of the smaller islands in the area.  The larger more developed islands, Ambergris Caye & San Pedro, offer more restaurant, shopping, and nightlife options if that’s what you’re looking for.

But for my purpose, Caye Caulker was perfect for what I needed.  Away from busy L.A. life, there’s no rush on Caye Caulker and the mellow “no worries” lifestyle of the locals forces you to also slow down, relax and reflect.

Getting By

Belize is a solo traveler’s paradise because it’s super easy to navigate!  As a solo American traveler, it was a cinch to “get by” for numerous reasons. First off, as a former British colony, English is the official language in Belize which made my interactions with locals seamless.

Did you know Belize is the only English language-speaking country in Central America?

Additionally, the U.S. dollar was accepted throughout the country and the conversion rate was even easier to remember, for every $1 USD multiply it by 2 to get the local currency in Belize dollars (BZE). In fact, most accommodations and tours are listed in U.S. dollars so you’ll always know how much you’re paying.

What to Do

The great thing about Belize and the islands off its coast is that there’s plenty to do. With the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere (2nd largest in the world), many visitors head straight to the islands to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site that is the Belize Barrier Reef!  Other’s come to dive the iconic “Blue Hole,” explore the ancient Mayan ruins, or embark on a cave expedition.  Whatever your interest, you’ll likely find something adventurous to do.

Here are a few things I did while visiting Caye Caulker, the island with Caribbean vibes.

Snorkel & Swim with Sharks

I decided to do a half day snorkel tour with West Coast Tours and my amazing guide Kevin.  For just $35 USD I got to snorkel the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and swim with sharks and sting rays, a first for me!

For more info contact Keven at westcoasttourscc@gmail.com or check out his facebook @westcoasttourscc.

Sunsets on the Split

While “the Split” is typically the hang out spot during the day, you have to come back here and catch the beautiful sunsets.

Coffee + Book + Beach = Pure Relaxation

I found myself at Ice ‘n’ Beans everyday for my caffeine fix.  While Caye Caulker is not really know for it’s coffee, Ice ‘n’ Beans in my opinion had the best coffee on the island and it was my go-to for coffee and bagels! Grab a good book and sit beachside without a care in the world.

Where to Eat

Rainbow Grill & Bar: Great lunch spot with ocean views.

Maggies Sunset Kitchen: Delicious lobster dinner with unbelizeable sunset views.

Where to Stay

I had a great stay at Jan’s Hotel in Caye Caulker, Belize, a lovely beachfront hotel that’s clean and friendly.  What I loved most about this hotel is that they took care of all my transportation arrangements as soon as I booked which made my trip so smooth.

Beginning with my arrival, I had a driver waiting for me at the airport (yes, with a sign) who took me to Belize City where I caught a water-taxi.  He gave me the pre-reserved water-taxi tickets on the spot and I enjoyed a 45 minute boat ride to Caye Caulker.  Then, once I got off the boat, the hotel provided a courtesy pick-up ride via golf cart once you arrive on the island. I mean it was all seamless and I totally recommend a stay with Jan’s Hotel because you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Getting Around

Taxi

My hotel arranged my airport pickup with Rey Heredia and I’m so glad they did! This awesome guy even made a detour for me and took me to the BELIZE sign where he snapped my picture before dropping me off to catch my water-taxi!  It was $25 USD one way from the airport to Belize City (about a 30 min drive).  I highly recommend his car service, contact Rey Heredia, Belize City, 624-5537.

Water-Taxi

If you want to explore the islands from Belize City, hop on one of the water taxi’s but make sure to check the schedule and reserve your ticket in advance.  I used the San Pedro Belize Express which has more options and when I booked with my hotel it was only $15 USD roundtrip to Caye Caulker!

Convinced Yet?

Have you felt like you’ve been on go mode without any relief?

Not sure how to relax when your to-do list is endless?

Feeling stressed and overworked from your job and life in general?

Ready for an amazing solo adventure with little distractions?

If you answered Yes to any and all of these questions then I highly suggest you catch the next flight out to Belize and more specifically, Caye Caulker!

P.S. this trip is totally doable over a long weekend (from the states), I went for MLK weekend and it was perfect. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my time on this little island and can’t wait to for you to check it out too!

Have you been to Caye Caulker, Belize?  Share your insight with travelers and comment below!

XOXO,

Fidel