Belize is a Central American country with a decidedly Caribbean flare. The Mayan civilization flourished here as far back as 1500 BC, building an impressive empire. It is a country rich in culture and dense with flora and fauna. Often visited by Americans as a nearby, cheap yet exotic getaway (and also filled with expats living the good life), it is a generally safe country boasting extremely friendly locals.

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Travelers usually have the option to move between gorgeous beach getaways and exciting jungle resorts. Both scenic options offer a unique view into this diverse country and time should be spent exploring both. While cruising the jungle, a stay at the unique Maruba Resort in Maskall should unquestionably be included in any itinerary. Located in the Belize district, which also includes the capital, Belize City, the city of Maskall is about 1 hour to 1.5 hours from the capital. For those with motion sickness, be aware the drive is on a very bumpy unpaved dirt road. It is quite the adventure to even get to the resort which is very secluded and a true haven of relaxation.

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The property feels like a hidden gem and is completely off the beaten path. This is not a typical 4 or 5 star resort but offers plenty more in charm and warmth. The overall aesthetic and design of the hotel can be described as jungle funky; eccentric neon colored zebra print table cloths adorn the dining area and fresh red hibiscus flowers are placed throughout all areas of the resort each morning. There is also an offbeat and tranquil hookah cave, plus an upstairs tree-house-esque dining section to enjoy a meal. Common areas are open to the outside, truly melding the natural with the man-made. For this reason, be sure to bring your bug spray as the mosquitoes here and throughout Belize can be vicious.

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Tile mosaics are heavily utilized throughout the property including hotel room bathrooms and in the 2 gorgeous outdoor swimming pools. There is also a refreshing mineral hot tub on-site. The property is so vast that there are plenty of winding walkways to explore and stumble upon something fun or unique. Included wonders are a mosaic outdoor chess/checkers board, a small chapel, a racquetball court, plus a marsh supporting the local habitat. A full time guard is on-site 24/7 and if you’re lucky he can take you on a night hike to look for creatures such as monkeys and frogs. The main office also has a collection of DVD’s to take back to your room, as the nights here are very low key.

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Individual rooms seem to be tucked away and mostly secluded from one another, lending themselves to a perfect resort feel. Fresh iced water is placed in each room every day and kitschy décor shines through with plenty of color and patterns plus a plethora of red hibiscus.

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Maruba is unquestionably best known for its spa and particularly its mud massages; and sometimes guests from other hotels will specifically travel here just for an afternoon of treatments. This was actually the first spa in the country and utilizes local, natural ingredients, and incorporates the same fun and colorful theme seen throughout Maruba. Recycled bottles are used in the wall of the outdoor bathrooms with plenty of textures and flowers. The masseuses are professional, friendly, and well-trained. After a thorough mud rub-down, they will paint your body with the mud to represent tribal patterns, animal spots and other fun designs. They will then gladly take pictures, with well placed flowers and leaves covering you up, before washing you off in an outdoor tub. If mud is not your style, there is a whole menu of other massage options.

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Since the resort is so isolated, activities generally need to be booked directly through the resort. The cost seems to be a little higher than booking directly with activity providers but nothing severely overpriced. On the actual Maruba property you can do a medicinal plant hike or go on a horseback ride through the jungle. The two amazing Mayan Ruin tours include the sites of Altuna Ha and Lamanai; both of which are undoubtedly spectacular, but if you must pick one, Lamanai is a bit more special. Lamanai includes a speed boat ride with the hopes a chance to catch a siting of crocodiles and monkeys, in addition to the ability to climb to the top of the amazing ruins for a breathtaking view. Altun Ha is very close to the hotel and has some of the best and cheapest souvenir shopping, and is a great spot to check out the ancient architecture.

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The cave tubing and zip lining tours are also a fantastic adventure and a great way to get out and experience the stunning natural scenery. For those not staying on The Cayes (the islands), there are one day trips that can include snorkeling or scuba diving for a totally different type of adventure, in addition to plenty of tours including wildlife sanctuaries, helicopter rides and fishing.

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The seclusion factor of Maruba could be seen as a potential issue with meals, yet the restaurant on-site consistently cooks up delicious, innovative meals. The prices are moderate and the menu changes every day for dinner. Breakfast is not included in the price of the room but is just as delicious as the dinner menu options.

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The Maruba Resort is a unique jungle getaway with a fantastic personality. It is undoubtedly a quiet and relaxing getaway that can feel like a paradise existing solely for you. The rainy season allows guests the opportunity to have the property almost to themselves yet even in the busier dry season, there is such a sense of open space and harmony with nature, which inhibits any feelings of crowdedness. From the lovely staff to the relaxing pools, scrumptious food, funky design and unrivaled location, it is a truly memorable stay.