Originally, I was a bit skeptical about what Maurice could do for me. This was only due to not trusting someone else to know what I may like. But I must admit, I am very impressed with his work. I wanted to experience Belize. I didn't know where to really begin. Maurice went over my interests and put together a plan for me. He hit the mark! He planned activities based on what I felt I wanted to experience, but he provided the freedom for me to explore and learn more about the things I couldn't have known from random planning on my own.
I wanted to immerse myself in the saltwater of Mother Earth. Maurice provided me with Matachica in San Pedro. Luxurious and beautiful. It is literally on the beach. I was very pleased with the privacy of my own magnificent hut-style abode with just steps to the water. This resort offered beachfront activities such as kayaking with enough space for uninterrupted beach lounging with local beach life at my disposal. A quick ride via golf cart puts you near a huge variety of places to eat along the beach and in town. I'm not going to go into details, but it's easy to get confused with all the golf carts sharing the same access, so make sure you lock your steering wheel and have the correct cart when you drive off. Tourists, right? Sigh. Luckily for me, the locals are very friendly and forgiving. For the first time in life, I went scuba diving! With the Scuba School and Family Dive Center certifying me, it was a breeze. I only stayed a few days in San Pedro. However, I will return soon. Maurice planned my excursion to the mainland. He was there every step of the way, ensuring I made the correct connections seamlessly. He had personalized support waiting for me. On the mainland, a scenic ride to my next adventure at Ka'ana Resort was waiting for me. This place was gorgeous! I had my own pool with an outside shower and backyard. The grounds are amazing. The feel and beauty of the foliage on this property blew me away. The spacious, luxurious rooms are awesomely designed in private bungalow-style. This place boasts growing everything on-site, and they can. The gardens are full of healthy varieties they use to cook all the meals. Maurice scheduled my experience for the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich. My private tour of the ruins was unbelievable. It all began with a personal horseback ride through the countryside trails with Ricky of Morning Side Ranch. His knowledge of the plant life and historical use of the wildlife there blew me away. He took me through the lushness of the countryside and through small villages. We stopped to eat at Benny's, a little place in a village en route to the Xunantunich site. He waited for me to finish my tour, and we rode back through the trails. I expressed interest in art, so Ricky went out of his way to show me what I wanted. He took me to a local stone carving artist, Jorge Castellanos of Maya Sunset Workshop. His fantastic carvings are all done in the tradition of ancient Maya. It was an amazing experience. I enjoyed it so much that I went on the trails again the next day. This time, I was able to go into the caves where I was blessed to see ancient pottery pieces and embrace the spirit of the cave. The resort provides drivers to take you into town. I went to a local, small shop called Back to My Roots. Carlton, the shop owner and jewelry craftsman, had so many great pieces to offer. He incorporated local stones and crystals in his art. I picked up several pieces and a custom drum.
I wish I had planned a longer stay, but thanks to Maurice, the magic of this place and the people will stay with me forever. read more