Why Olympic Athlete Superstar Simone Biles chose this Beachfront Belize Resort

by Gisselle Hernandez
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It’s not every day that you welcome an internationally-renowned athlete to your hotel, but the pipe-dream actually came true for one Belize resort last month. Olympic Champion Simone Biles found herself lounging on the beaches of Belize in Placencia for Thanksgiving. Her choice of stay? The award-winning luxe resort Naia Resort & Spa

 

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Biles and her family flew to the tropical destination only 10 days after her Gold Over America Tour. And judging from her Instagram alone, the short—albeit relaxing—was much needed, especially as the gymnast had quite an eventful year with the Tokyo Olympics being held this past summer. But this isn’t the first time the multiple Olympic-medal holder has vacationed in her parent’s home country of Belize. On Thanksgiving 2019, Biles received the key to San Pedro Town in Ambergris Caye, courtesy of the island’s mayor. Her return can be attributed not only to her heritage but also to the beauty of Belize that it seems Biles can’t get enough of. Her Instagram, peppered with selfies at Naia’s beachfront, says as much

While the Thanksgiving family trip was private, sources say Biles spent most of her time simply taking a well-deserved break. “Simone and her family love the sea,” a Naia representative shared. “They really wanted to just rest.” The family’s only activity while staying at Naia was fishing, which is an experience the resort provides. Biles and her family also visited nearby Placencia Village to walk around and eat at local restaurants

The Wellness Retreat worthy of an Olympic Champion

 

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While staying at the resort, Biles made much use of the luxurious spa. Naia is home to Belize’s only destination spa, the private retreat sitting in the middle of the lagoon at the property. The spa uses botanicals sourced locally and various healing properties, meaning hard-earned gymnast muscles receive the care and comfort they need. Naia Resort also holds an on-site gym as well as a yoga studio, urging visitors to become the best version of themselves. You have your choice of yoga and pilates classes, and even smoothies and snacks available at Reflections Spa Cafe. 

We all know a healthy body equals a healthy mind, a concept we’re sure any athlete would take seriously. When it comes to eating well, Naia over-delivers. The menu at the resort offers choices that are both delicious and healthy, with even the option for vegan and vegetarian dishes. Pasta, sandwiches, fajitas, and more are creative cuisines without sacrificing health and wellness. Did we mention there are three separate restaurants on-site? No matter your preference, you definitely won’t feel left out. 

Much needed Privacy & Seclusion on the Placencia Peninsula

 

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As a celebrity, privacy and seclusion can be hard to come by. Biles’ choice to stay at Naia Resort was a wise one, as the 200-acre private reserve feels like its own little world. Intimate, natural, and secluded, a stay at Naia is exactly what you need to detox from the world and find rejuvenation. The beach houses alone are relaxing bubbles in their own right, complete with luxurious bath essentials and bedding straight from the clouds in heaven. For bigger groups, the hotel offers multiple houses. Or, if you’re seeking that ultra-VIP experience, book out the five-bedroom Solvei: a home that has its own private pool and outfitted as peak luxury. 

solvei belize Naia resort spa Caribbean villa beach

Solvei, Naia Resort’s new addition.

When it comes right now to it, it’s a no-brainer the Simone Biles chose to spend her relaxing break at Belize’s Naia Resort & Spa. While you won’t want for anything at the highly-acclaimed hotel, make like Biles and venture out into the local spaces, appreciating all the beauty Placencia—and Belize—have to offer. 

Header image via Simone Biles’ Instagram.

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