Trip Overview
This was a special one—not just for the destination, but for who came along. I planned a Thanksgiving getaway to Belize and invited both my family and my partner’s family to join. Between beach days, jungle adventures, scuba lessons, and shared meals, it turned into one of the most memorable family vacations we’ve ever had.
We split our time between the ocean and the jungle, staying on Ambergris Caye at Matachica Resort & Spa, and then heading inland to Gaia Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
Most Memorable Moments
San Pedro Food Tour – We joined Belize Food Tours and wandered the streets of San Pedro, tasting local favorites and hearing stories behind the dishes. A highlight of the trip—so much flavor, so much heart.
Scuba Certification (Family Style!) – My mom and my partner’s dad both got scuba certified on this trip! I joined them on their certification dives and got to watch them explore a whole new world underwater. It was awesome to see them take on something so new.
Natural Pools at Gaia – Gaia Riverlodge has these beautiful natural swimming pools you access by riding a funicular down the hillside. One day we even had lunch delivered poolside. It was paradise—until a giant snake swam across the water. Needless to say, that ended our pool sessions for the trip.
Birdwatching with My Mom – A couple of quiet mornings at Gaia, my mom and I walked around with binoculars, watching tropical birds flit through the trees. It was slow, peaceful, and really special time together.
Villa Jaguar Watch – My partner’s family stayed in a magical riverside villa that ended up being pretty far from the main lodge. It was beautiful—tucked along the river, peaceful and remote—but we all kept joking that a jaguar might break in at night. They loved it… mostly. Probably would’ve preferred being a little closer to the snacks.
Celebrating Thanksgiving away from it all – We traded turkey for Caribbean breezes. No complaints.
Logistics & Practical Information
Accommodation
- Matachica Resort & Spa: Adults-only, beachfront, and perfectly peaceful.
- Gaia Riverlodge: Eco-lodge with waterfall views, nature trails, and cozy cabins.
Transportation
- We flew into Belize City, then hopped a short flight to San Pedro for the beach portion. For the jungle leg, we transferred back via Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport and continued inland to Gaia.
Food
- Local street eats on the food tour in San Pedro
- Fresh seafood, plantains, and coconut rice at Matachica
- Homestyle Belizean dishes in the mountains
Activities
- Snorkeling and diving (including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve)
- Food tour in San Pedro
- Lots of time at the pool
- Exploring Caracol ruins
Tips for Travelers
- Book domestic flights ahead—they fill fast.
- Belize is super laid-back—embrace it. Island time is real.
- Bring bug spray for the jungle, reef-safe sunscreen for the coast.
- Belize is bilingual, but knowing a little Spanish goes a long way inland.
- Traveling with both sides of the family? Make space for solo moments, too.
Reflections & Final Thoughts
This trip was about more than the destination—it was about bringing two families together, sharing new experiences, and building memories in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Whether we were learning to scuba, doing a walking food tour, or hiking through jungle mist, every moment felt like a gift.
Expedition Hamilton 