Ambergris Caye is the perfect beach vacation destination for family members of all ages. From educational experiences rich in history and culture, adventures that take you far above treetop canopies and deep down beneath caves, to soaking up the wind and the waves by way of jet skis, kayaks, parasailing, and sunset cruises, one thing is certain: the island of Ambergris Caye is full of adventure and is made for creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We interviewed Kris Nelson, who recently traveled to Ambergris Caye for spring break. As a travel agent formerly with Strong Travel Services, Kris had been to Ambergris Caye once before with a group of travel agents. Although she did have the opportunity to explore famous jungles of Belize, she was technically still at work, and she did not get to experience everything on her wish list. However, her time here in Belize was enough for her to know that she would one day come back. Kris was drawn to the amazing light blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, fell in love with the authentic community that is evidenced on the island, and delighted in the fact that golf carts are the main mode of transportation around town. These things made her return to Ambergris Caye a simple choice, and she could not wait to return to Belize for her family’s spring break trip.
Not only did Kris bring her own family to Las Terrazas Resort on Ambergris Caye, they invited friends to travel with them, because travel is alway more fun with friends! Between both families, there were two teenage boys – a great age in that they were old enough to drive the golf carts (valid driver’s licenses are required to drive), were able to experience nearly all that the island had to offer, and could have explored San Pedro on their own if they had wanted. And though the island was perfectly suitable for these near-adults, don’t be discouraged if you have younger children in your family; the resort alone has much to offer for children of all ages. Ask our Beach Captain for lessons in climbing a coconut tree, sailing the Hobie Cat, or scouring the sea grass for starfish. And be sure that your camera is nearby – the smiles you capture are definitely Christmas card worthy.
As far as Kris’ family and friends, they opted for an excursion to mainland Belize where they rode through the jungle on ATVs, hiked to a cave, and then went cave tubing through ancient, underground rivers… all of which were a huge hit for every member of their trip, headlamps and all!
The Truck Stop, Belize’ first ever shipping container food park and beer garden, was also a favorite shared experience. The Truck Stop’s proximity to Las Terrazas Resort, the variety of food, and the laid-back ambiance made this a fantastic spot for these two families to hang out. Visitors will love the live music and activities like watching an outdoor poolside movie, singing karaoke, or playing ping pong and corn-hole. You might even find yourself on stage for the Not-So-Newlywed Game or Family Feud.
Staying at Las Terrazas Resort was a no-brainer for Kris and her family. As the most luxurious spa resort on the island, and the only Virtuoso property, Las Terrazas Resort was an easy pick based on seclusion and elegance. The family enjoyed fry jacks for breakfast each morning and raved about the fine dining offered at O Restaurant, the resort’s onsite eatery.
Despite Las Terrazas Resort’s luxury and glam, Kris did mention that it would be helpful for families to know that Ambergris Caye is not a place to expect opulence at every turn. While there are certainly pockets of luxury, the island is overall known for being a relaxed and casual destination where the locals are very proud. They welcome you to try their food, crafts and customs… and you should! Kris suggests knowing where the island’s hidden gems are, like the Secret (not so secret anymore!) Beach and Elvi’s Kitchen.
With all of the traveling that Kris has experienced in her career as a travel agent, it is an honor to know that she chose Ambergris Caye and Las Terrazas Resort as her family’s spring break destination. And while it might seem easy to just book a trip yourself in today’s digital age, using a travel agent is still such a valuable resource.
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