Placencia Peninsula hangs like a golden thread from the mainland south of Belize, only forty minutes' flight from the capital.

This smart resort provides the perfect base from which to venture out to one of the quirkily-named southern islands such as `Laughing Bird Caye', or mount a complimentary bicycle to ride into the nearby laid-back village (8km).

There are three large pools, two with wooden decked seating areas as well as a tennis court and small gym. Each low-rise, hacienda-style accommodation building has a rooftop Jacuzzi.

Rooms are tastefully decorated with jazzy primary colours - some with vibrant murals, and all have large balconies overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Our comment

"Great for families and couples alike. The property is spacious, with many creature comforts but manages to retain a typical Belizean atmosphere."