Celebrating Women Who Travel: Travel Expert Louise Roe Courtenay on Luxury Travel in Belize

by Khaila Gentle

To Celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle is shining a spotlight on trailblazing women fueled by a sense of adventure and wanderlust. In this week’s feature, travel expert and concierge Louise Roe Courtenay of ROEming Belize shares a bit about luxury travel in Belize. She also delves into escorted group trips, and what’s on her Belize bucket list for 2024.

A Belizean native and adventure seeker, Louise has traveled extensively throughout the country. She shares snapshots of her Belize travels through her Instagram page @vacationbelize.

An Interview With Louise Roe Courtenay on Luxury Travel in Belize 

Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle: Before we dive into luxury travel and travel recommendations, tell us: how did you discover your love for traveling? How long has travel been such a huge part of your life? 

Louise: Travel has always been my passion. Growing up under the Belize sun for over 30 years has allowed me to explore my country extensively and share its wonders with others. I’ve been able to immerse myself in a variety of experiences. That includes everything from snorkeling, diving, fishing, and island hopping to ancient Maya sites, waterfalls, and jungle adventures.

Travel isn’t just a job for me; it’s a way of life. As a travel concierge, I’m deeply committed to incorporating the incredible adventures that have shaped my own experiences into the itineraries of my guests. Drawing upon my own personal passion for exploration, I strive to create tailored journeys that resonate with each traveler’s interests and preferences. I love creating trips that spark joy and wonder in my guests. 

CC+L: If you had to pick one place in Belize as your all-time favorite, where would it be and why?

L:  If I had to choose, it would undoubtedly be the Cayo District. Nestled in the heart of the country, Cayo offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and tranquility. The serene ambiance and the opportunity to connect with nature in its rawest form make it a top destination for me.

I find great enjoyment in staying at an eco-jungle lodge and being fully immersed in the natural beauty surrounding me. I love waking up to the sounds of nature, like birds singing and leaves rustling, and spending my days exploring off-the-beaten paths, hiking to waterfalls, canoeing down rivers, and being outdoors.  As the day ends, gazing up at the starlit sky is a magical way to conclude the day. 

CC+L: On your travel page on Instagram, @vacationbelize you’ve amassed over 35K followers and have shared over a thousand snapshots of travel across Belize. Is there any photo on your feed that you’re particularly fond of? Any reason why?

L:  This photo in particular showcases the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich. Maya sites hold significant historical importance for Belize. What makes Belize truly special is its status as a destination that has managed to remain relatively untouched by mass tourism. You can explore these sites without the crowds, allowing for a more intimate and authentic experience. 

CC+L: In 2023, you unveiled a new travel concept for your company ROEming Belize—Escorted Group Trips. What would you say are some of the perks of escorted group trips? What are some experiences travelers can expect on a group trip with ROEming Belize?

L: Introducing group trips in 2023 has been an exciting new venture for us. One of the key benefits of escorted group trips is the sense of community and camaraderie that travelers experience when exploring new destinations together. Traveling in a group allows for shared experiences, creating lasting memories and friendships.  When embarking on a group trip with ROEming Belize, travelers can expect a carefully curated itinerary that combines must-see attractions with off-the-beaten-path gems.

Photo by ROEming Belize

Highlights include snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef, flying over the Great Blue Hole, cave tubing, and visiting an ancient Maya site. Our expert guides provide in-depth knowledge about the destinations, enhancing the overall travel experience. 

 

The beauty of travel comes not only from what we see and do, but also from the people we meet and experience a country with. This group trip combines both and is truly special.  – Louise Roe Courtenay 

 

CCL: A few years ago, travel influencer Passport Heavy became one of the first people to kind of shine a spotlight on Belize as a destination for exclusive experiences (like sushi on a private island, for example.) For anyone craving that next-level, once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience in Belize, is there anything you would recommend? 

L:  Vacationing on a private island in Belize offers a once-in-a-lifetime lifestyle experience. Imagine waking up in a luxurious villa to watch the sunrise from your bed, surrounded by the calming sounds of the sea. Your toughest decision of the day would be whether to take a refreshing morning swim in your private plunge pool overlooking the water or venture into the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea.

CCL: Is there a particular hotel or resort that stands out to you as a top destination for travelers seeking that extra touch of luxury?  

Luxury is a subjective concept, and what constitutes a luxurious experience can vary greatly from person to person. However, one exceptional destination in Belize that caters to travelers seeking an extra touch of opulence is Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge. This boutique resort offers more than just upscale accommodations, exclusive amenities, and attentive service. It provides tons of unique and indulgent experiences. Situated on 7200 private acres, the lodge has over 90 miles of meticulously maintained hiking and biking trails. It’s the largest private trail network in the Pine Ridge region.  

 

Luxury is a subjective concept, and what constitutes a luxurious experience can vary greatly from person to person.

 

Picture yourself enjoying a private waterfall picnic, specially arranged for your pleasure amidst the unspoiled surroundings, accompanied by the tranquil melody of cascading water. This level of personalized luxury truly distinguishes Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge as a premier option for travelers seeking an extraordinary and unique experience in Belize

CCL: Any recs for the perfect blend of luxury and cultural authenticity?

L: For an exceptional fusion of luxury and cultural authenticity in Belize, I suggest a visit to Hopkins. This picturesque coastal village provides a one-of-a-kind experience that seamlessly integrates high-end amenities with a genuine Belizean cultural atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the lively Garifuna culture, renowned for its fascinating history, captivating music, dynamic dance, and traditional cuisine. 

Photo by the Lodge at Jaguar Reef

 Whether delighting in the flavorful local cuisine or moving to the infectious rhythms of the drums, fully engage with the culture by meeting and learning from the locals.  Additionally, Hopkins offers luxurious accommodations and exquisite dining choices. This ensures a well-rounded and unforgettable travel experience that caters to your desire for both comfort and authentic cultural connection.

CCL: What’s next on your travel bucket list, and why?

L: The Belize Barrier Reef stands as the indisputable top tourist draw in Belize. It’s the second largest coral reef system globally following Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The country is also home to three of the total four atolls found in the Western Hemisphere—Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Turneffe Atoll, and Glovers Reef. The last atoll on my list yet to dive is Glovers Reef. I’m hoping to tick it off this year with a dive trip.

Celebrating Women Who Travel 2024 

Follow along on our Instagram and website. We will be sharing articles throughout the month that highlight the Belize women who love travel. Also, check out our previous Women’s Day campaigns like the Belizean Women in Lead series.

Featured photo courtesy of ROEming Belize Travel Agency

Related Articles