Belize’s long-awaited, first large-scale resort is finally open on Ambergris Caye as of January 2018. A grand archway greets guests before they head down a long driveway to the 206-unit resort and its 20,000 sq. ft. Great House, a building designed in the British Colonial style and the largest wooden structure in Belize. Here guests can check in, dine, drink, and attend conferences. As the name suggests, Mahogany Bay really feels like a village. The property hosts a coffee shop, dive shop, beauty salon, spa, Saturday farmer’s market, and Jyoto, the best sushi restaurant in Belize and several other good restaurants. Just off the main building is a stunning, large pool with its own bar. There’s also a private beach club 15 minutes north by boat.
     The rooms, which are either in detached or townhouse buildings, are set up along “streets” separated by canals. Each unit has its own golf cart parking spot (cart not included) and Wi-Fi network. The architecture and décor are stylishly Colonial and pretty swank, with high ceilings, covered porches, plush king beds, big TVs, air-conditioning and handsome hardwood floors. In the rooms are a wildlife guide with instructions on handling crocodile encounters, as well as a bird-watching list with species found specifically on Ambergris Caye.