By Valerie Milano
Photos THT/Eric Roderick
Belize, Central America (The Hollywood Times) 12/13/24 – When you think of a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Belize naturally comes to mind. While many well-known operators dominate the scene, there’s one company that stands out for its unique blend of expertise, warmth, and personalized service: Belize Unknown.
On a recent trip to Belize, my nephew and I had the pleasure of joining Belize Unknown for a snorkel and scuba diving adventure that was nothing short of extraordinary. We had no idea what to expect, but what we experienced was beyond our wildest imaginations.
A Personal Touch with a Local Flair
Belize Unknown may not be the largest or most famous operator in the area, but that’s exactly what makes them so special. Owned by the passionate and friendly Arthur Westby, this company’s ethos is built on providing intimate, expertly guided trips. Arthur, a long-time Belizean local, is more than just a business owner—he’s a man who lives and breathes the beauty of Belize’s waters. His commitment to giving guests a memorable and authentic experience is evident from the moment you step on board.
From the outset, we were treated like old friends, not just clients. Arthur’s enthusiasm and knowledge were contagious, and it set the tone for what was to come. But the real magic happened when we met our guides: Tyler and Tuff Love.
Expert Guides Who Truly Care
Tyler and Tuff Love were not only highly skilled but also incredibly warm and engaging. As we sailed towards our dive and snorkel sites, they shared fascinating insights about Belize’s marine ecosystems, the importance of coral conservation, and the many species of fish and sea life we could expect to encounter. Their passion for the ocean was evident in every word they spoke, and their professionalism and knowledge quickly put us at ease.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Tyler and Tuff Love are the perfect guides. They took the time to ensure everyone felt comfortable and confident before entering the water.
The Dive and Snorkel Experience
We had the chance to explore some of Belize’s most stunning marine locations, and I can confidently say that the beauty of the coral reefs and the abundance of marine life far exceeded my expectations. From the moment we hit the water, it was as if we had entered another world. Schools of colorful fish, playful rays, and even the elusive nurse shark graced us with their presence. Tyler and Tuff Love made sure we got the most out of each stop, pointing out the little details we might have missed: a hidden lobster & stone crab under the rocks, a moray eel peeking from its lair, or a delicate sea turtle gliding gracefully past us.
The snorkel sites were equally impressive, with calm, shallow waters that were perfect for exploring without the need for extensive diving experience. My nephew and I spent hours floating among the corals, captivated by the diversity of life below the surface. It was an experience that truly felt like we were discovering something special—something that many larger operations might miss.
Getting to Hopkins Bay Resort
To reach Hopkins Bay Resort, you have two options. You can take a short, scenic 20-minute plane ride on Maya Air from Belize City to Dangriga, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline as you fly in. Alternatively, you can opt for a more leisurely 2-hour shuttle ride. Both choices offer a chance to take in the local scenery and begin your adventure before you even arrive at the resort.
Unforgettable Hospitality and Stunning Views: A Quick Stop at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
Another moment during our recent trip to Belize, we also rented a golf cart from our Hopkins Bay resort and just had to stop at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, and it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. It’s a beautiful resort, nestled along the Caribbean coastline in Hopkins.
From the moment we arrived to take a gander, we were struck by the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere of the property. The lodge is surrounded by lush greenery, with the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea just steps away. The architecture is charming, with thatched-roof buildings and rustic wooden accents that seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings.
One of the standout moments of our visit was the warm welcome my sister received from the manager, Delvin Monroe. Delvin’s hospitality was exceptional and truly set the tone for our quick looky lou visit. He greeted us with a friendly smile and, as a special treat, offered us a complimentary rum punch, which was delicious and the perfect way to have a rest from our sightseeing. It was a thoughtful gesture that made us feel instantly at home.
Delvin’s personal touch didn’t stop there. Throughout our time at the lodge, he and his team were attentive, helpful, and always eager to ensure we had everything we needed.
Overall, our quick stopover visit to The Lodge at Jaguar Reef was an unforgettable experience. The combination of the stunning location, exceptional service, and thoughtful touches from manager Delvin Monroe made it a truly special trip. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in Belize with incredible hospitality, we highly recommend checking this resort out. Thank you, Delvin, and the entire team, for making our quick visit so memorable. We can’t wait to return for a longer time!
A Special Thank You for Exceptional Service
Our Belize trip became even more memorable thanks to a truly exceptional individual: Isaiah McLaughlyn, our local driver during the trip. Isaiah, a kind and gentle 21-year-old, was not just a driver, but a true ambassador of Belize. His impeccable English and profound knowledge of the local area made him an invaluable part of our experience. When my 77-year-old sister had an unfortunate fall and hurt her arm while biking, Isaiah went above and beyond. Even though his baby daughter was due that very day, he immediately took charge, driving us to a local clinic & hospital. His connections within the town ensured that my sister was seen quickly and efficiently, a huge relief during a stressful time.
Isaiah’s attentiveness, calm demeanor, and care for our well-being was beyond anything we could have hoped for. We were so impressed by his professionalism and kindness that we requested him every time we needed a driver throughout our stay. Now, even though we’re back home, Isaiah feels like family, and we are forever grateful for his help. He truly deserves to be commended for his exceptional service and dedication.
A Blissful Stay at Hopkins Bay Resort
While in Belize, we had the pleasure of staying at Hopkins Bay Resort, which became the perfect home base for our adventures. The resort staff were some of the kindest people we’ve ever met, always going out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The warm hospitality was a highlight of our stay, and it was clear that they took immense pride in ensuring that guests had everything they needed for a memorable vacation.
Our accommodations, Villa 120, was an absolute sanctuary. Always perfectly cleaned and maintained, it offered a spacious and relaxing retreat after a day of activities. The views from the villa were breathtaking, with the Caribbean Sea just steps away. Whether lounging on the deck or taking in the sunsets, we felt like we were in a private paradise.
The food and drinks at the resort were another standout. Each meal we enjoyed was delicious, with fresh, local ingredients that brought the flavors of Belize to life. The resort’s restaurant was perfect for casual meals after our excursions, and we particularly appreciated the variety of options, from fresh seafood to hearty Belizean staples. The drinks were equally satisfying, and the bar staff made sure we always had a refreshing cocktail in hand to complement the tropical atmosphere.
I had the pleasure of indulging in a relaxing oceanside massage during our stay – an experience that was wonderful. It was the perfect way to unwind after an action-packed day in the water.
One of the best perks of staying at Hopkins Bay Resort was the free bicycles available for guests. It was great to have the freedom to explore the local area on two wheels, cruising through the village of Hopkins and along the beach. It was a fun and easy way to take in the surroundings at our own pace.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to Belize and want a snorkel or scuba adventure that feels personal, authentic, and unforgettable, Belize Unknown is the way to go. Arthur’s company, with guides like Tyler and Tuff Love, brings the best of Belize’s underwater beauty to life in a way that feels warm, intimate, and downright magical. For us, it was an experience we’ll never forget, and one that we highly recommend to anyone looking to dive into the wonders of Belize in the most genuine way possible.
And after a day of adventure, there’s no better place to return to than Hopkins Bay Resort. With its kind staff, impeccable villas, delicious food, and relaxing amenities, it provides the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Thank you, Belize Unknown, for making our trip an unforgettable one! A huge thanks to Hopkins Bay Resort for being the perfect home base for our Belizean getaway, and most importantly, a heartfelt thank you to Isaiah McLaughlyn, who truly made a difference in our journey. His kindness and professionalism will never be forgotten!
