Yes, we are still celebrating all the Belizean winners and finalists in Condé Nast Johansens’ 2021 Awards of Excellence! The awards ceremony took place virtually this year in November and praised the winners who have raised the benchmark in luxury travel over the last 12 months. Categorized in Central & South America, Belize took home a total of three wins while placing with three finalists by the comprehensive leading publication for the annual inspections of hotels and spas with independent owners.
Winners and Finalists
Unsurprisingly, Belize resorts were shortlisted in almost every category for Central & South America. Prestigious and world-renowned, these awards not only recognized the accomplishments of the Belizean staff in creating exceptional experiences but also acknowledge the gracious guests who recommend them. Belize resorts nominated best were:
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Weddings, Parties & Celebrations: Matachica Resort & Spa
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Meetings & Conferences: Las Terrazas Resort & Residencies
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Green Practices & Sustainability: Gaia Riverlodge
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Waterside Hotel (Riverside, Lakeside, Seaside): Victoria House Resort & Spa (Seaside)
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Families: The Phoenix Resort
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Romance: Cayo Espanto A Private Island
Below, find congratulatory mentions of the Belizean resorts awarded in their category!
Cayo Espanto Private Island: Best for Romance
You might never see a guest during your entire visit to Cayo Espanto, a private island offshore Ambergris Caye, Belize. The intimate property only has seven villas total, with Casa Ventanas being the only overwater bungalow.
Discover all the reasons Cayo Espanto won Best for Romance in the 2021 Condé Nast Johansens Awards of Excellence here.
The Phoenix Resort: Best for Families
Settled in the heart of San Pedro, meet The Phoenix Resort; accommodations range from one to three-bedroom apartment-style suites with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea. All are incredibly huge and have fully-equipped kitchens, living rooms, and terraces—perfect for families of all sizes. There’s fun for children and adults alike with chocolate-making classes with Belize Chocolate Company, art classes with Belizean Melody Art Gallery, and more.

Photo by The Phoenix via Facebook
Discover all the reasons The Phoenix won Best for Families in the 2021 Condé Nast Johansens Awards of Excellence here.
Victoria House Resort & Spa: Best Waterside Hotel
Although Belize’s Victoria House Resort & Spa is set two miles outside of the town, the immaculate white sand beach is seemingly curated for social distancing. On-site, 42 rooms shine across 10 acres as intimate and casual; rooms vary in size and style, however, they all have garden and ocean views of the Caribbean Sea.

Victoria House Resort & Spa.
Despite being one of the oldest properties on the island, Victoria House is diligently maintained and brilliant, just like new. The refined white-on-white color scheme contrasts for pure sophistication against manicured grassy green grounds and Caribbean blue roofing.