While many travelers have quickly adapted to a more cautious and safe way of traveling for the past year, we aren’t quite out of the woods yet. When travel gradually eased back in this year, there were talks of travel pods, “bubble” tours, and socially-distanced vacations. A lot has changed since then, but many still prefer to travel with a health and safety focus in mind. This means that for 2021’s holiday season, families planning a winter getaway are still looking to have a good time with little outside contact. These “bubble” vacations, where the entire family stays within their own travel pod for most of the trip, are a great way to have a memorable holiday without worrying about safety concerns. Here are some excellent ideas on how to curate the best family bubble vacation.
A classic but strong contender is renting an entire villa for your family. Complete with kitchen, living room, and lounging essentials, this mode of accommodation is so convenient for large groups. You can book an exclusive family package with Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas in Placencia, where they offer specific Family Style Villas to guests. Or, the guest-exclusive all-villa style Chabil Mar that overlooks the village from its signature blue roofs that line the beach.
The vacation rental on St. George’s Caye includes private boat charters to its own private dock. Image by Casa Al Mar/Duarte Dellarole
Dine in your own private courtyard, thanks to your private chef. Image by Casa Al Mar/Duarte Dellarole
If you’re looking for something a little more off-grid, try Casa Al Mar just outside of Belize City. This all-inclusive option even provides a personal chef who will cook for you and your family for the duration of your stay. Besides two private docks, your own private captain, and an island cook, you’ve got plenty of space for up to 16 guests. Looking for adventure? The Belize Barrier Reef is mere minutes away from the property, with other islands like Caye Caulker and Ambergris nearby too.
For those families looking for something more luxe, there is the option of renting out an entire private island. This not only ensures complete care and attention from the resort staff but also features seclusion from the outside world. Ray Caye Island Resort is a great option for a big gathering based on a special event such as a wedding, birthday, or bachelor(ette) party weekend. This kidney-shaped island is about 18 miles from the coast of Placencia and you can either choose a full island buyout, or only half. Either way, the luxurious experience coupled with the beautiful views and sustainable practices will be more than enough to impress your family this holiday season.
Another private island offering a full hotel buyout is Blue Marlin Beach Resort on the palm-studded island of South Water Caye. Also accessible from either Placencia or Dangriga, Blue Marlin offers unmissable packages catered to guests. From their fishing exclusive to marine-related tours, you will never be bored at this island sitting on a marine reserve.
Book a private sailing tour.
Charter a catamaran for the entire family and have a blast sipping rum punch while watching the Caribbean sunset sink low over the horizon. If you’re booking a sunset sailing tour from Caye Caulker, you get to experience the small island from a whole other angle. The outside world will melt away along with your worries when bobbing along the turquoise waves. Indulge in some fresh ceviche and other snacks with the family for the evening to truly get the Caribbean experience, where not a lick of freezing weather is in sight.
Snorkeling Middle Silk Caye with Splash IDC Center. Image courtesy Carolee Chanona
There are many other ways to enjoy a truly guilt-free vacation, from camping in the rainforests of Belize, booking only private transportations, and reserving all-inclusive stays as opposed to regular accommodations. Regardless of which one you choose, Belize’s thorough health protocols and Gold Standard tourism providers will make sure you have a safe trip without losing the fun-filled memories.
Header image of Ka’ana Resort.