Belize Boutique Resort and Spa

Decadent, sensual, and exotic are words often used to describe this boutique resort, and for good reason. The whole place is an imaginative jungle fantasy where health and happiness are the primary goals. The name was very recently changed from Maruba Resort and Spa, so you may hear people refer to it by that name.

The accommodations are a collection of uniquely designed and decorated rooms and private villas, set in a patch of densely planted gardens and forest, where kinkajous and frogs can be heard at night. Artistic touches abound, many seen in the eclectic mix of decorations and furnishings from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and, of course, Belize. This is also the only place in Belize where you'll spot a Tesla, though the car's charger is free for any Tesla-driving guest to use. The best rooms here are the bungalows. The standard rooms and suites are certainly up to snuff, but it's hard to beat the in-room jacuzzis that the bungalows have.

There are two outdoor pools here, as well as a separate hot mineral pool. The spa facilities and services are wonderfully done. The Mood Mud Massage is their signature offering, and I highly recommend it—don't forget to have your picture taken at the end. The food at the restaurant here is excellent, featuring a creative mix of international and fusion cuisine. This place is popular with day-trippers from the cayes and Belize City, as well as cruise-ship passengers. Luckily, one of the pools is reserved for hotel guests, and once the day tours clear out, you’ll have the place to yourself. In addition to the spa treatments, a host of tours, activities, and adventures is offered here. If you’re in the mood for some serious imbibing, don’t miss a taste of their home-brewed Viper Rum and Scorpion Stinger.

Details

• Address: Old Northern Hwy., Mile Marker 40 1/2, Maskall Village
• Phone: [phone] in the U.S., or 225-5555 in Belize
• Website: www.belizeresortandspa.com.
• Prices: BZ$460 double; BZ$540 junior suite; BZ$850 suite or bungalow