What Spending Christmas & New Years On A Small Island In Belize Could Be Like

by Larry Waight

Belize is a stunning tropical paradise that is surprisingly easy to get to from the United States. It’s less than 3 hours from Houston or Miami. This makes it an ideal place for a family vacation. And in fact, one of the best times to go to Belize is in the winter months. While people in places like Chicago or Montreal are dealing with snow drifts and sub-zero temperatures, the climate in Belize is warm and sunny. What better way to celebrate winter holidays such as Christmas or the New Year than to stay in Belize for a vacation? This particular island, or caye, is a quiet and unspoiled oasis with Casa Al Mar, a vacation rental, that’s particularly perfect for a relaxing Christmas or New Year’s Day. 

Family Vacation on St. George’s Caye

Of course, these are times when you will want to spend time with family and friends. Fortunately, you can stay at the Casa Al Mar, a private home that features 6 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 16 guests. The seaside home is just 9 miles by boat from Belize City. It is located on St. George’s Caye.

Aerial of St. George’s Caye. Image by Duarte Dellarole

During the 1700s, it was Belize’s first capital. You don’t need to leave the island to enjoy yourself. You can wake up and throw your fishing line off the dock to catch your breakfast and have it grilled a few minutes later by your island chef.  

There are hammocks on the shaded lanai if you long for a lazy day, or to walk the island. There is the small but enchanting St. George’s Caye Aquarium if you’d like a fun destination. Or visit the mainland to explore rainforests, and archeological ruins, or enjoy some nightlife. St. George’s Caye itself is rustic. There is no public electricity service. Instead, all of the homes on the island are powered by generators. Most of the houses are used as vacation homes. There are no shops or cars. This creates an atmosphere that allows you to completely relax. It also makes for a perfect opportunity to focus on and spend time with family and friends. After the COVID pandemic, those who are worried about too much contact with strangers will love the isolation as well. 

About Casa Al Mar 

Casa Al Mar is rented only to one group at a time. Whether the number of people is 8 or 16, you’ll have the whole place to yourself. Vacation packages are provided that offer fantastic amenities. Anyone who rents the house will have access to docks both in the front and back of the house as well as a yard where children can play. There are kayaks that guests can use and a great swimming area. Full cleaning services are provided, as well as meals cooked by a chef so you can simply relax. 

The house also comes with a boat and captain for your exclusive use and free WiFi. It features a game room, a bar area, and a large sunning deck on the front dock. The tasteful décor is colorful, modern, and comfortable. Large windows in every room let in plenty of light and air. 

Guests are provided with three meals a day plus snacks. They include local specialties such as Belizean Fry Jacks for breakfast and delicious fresh local fruits. The chef will also perfectly season and cook the fish you catch. In addition to food, you are also provided with all the non-alcoholic drinks you want. You may bring alcohol to the island if you desire. For international guests, there are additional amenities such as round-trip air transfers from the airport, a round-trip boat transfer to the island, and island-based tours.

Included in the international package are trips to snorkeling and fishing trips as well as a visit to Caye Caulker. While locals can stay at Casa Al Mar for a minimum of as little as 2 nights, the international package has a 5-night minimum. 

Location, location, location  

What makes Casa Al Mar an ideal place for a vacation is its perfect location. Guests can enjoy their proximity to the Caribbean with its crystal-clear water. The beaches and natural surroundings are serene and peaceful. You may not want to leave the island. However, there are many places close by if you want to explore more of Belize. The island is only 20 minutes from Belize City and Shark Ray Alley. Caye Caulker is only a half hour away so you can create your own personal dream vacation. To enjoy Christmas or New Year in paradise, visit Casa Al Mar for a memorable experience. 

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