Birds, Ruins and Coral in impressive comfort.
Belize | Apr 5 - Apr 17, 2024

Jim
Jim S.
Bradenton, FL | Reviewed on Apr 19, 2024

Catherina is amazing. From the preliminary agenda until we were on the plane she was on top of everything. When changes were required she made them, was solicitous of our comfort and in every way fabulous. JJ and Renee were equally impressive and did everything to make our trip enjoyable. Renee returned the room key that I forgot in Belize, JJ helped me through a bit of stomach upset. All of the birding guides were extremely knowledgeable. I would recommend that folks our age split birding and ruin watching into two days. It was 104 degrees the day we did it and we cooked. The reef in Belize is still beautiful, but showing signs of bleaching, more's the pity. All in all, it was one of our best trips. Kudos to Columbus travel.

Hotel Reviews
Mystic River Resort
San Ignacio

Sited in the jungle with balconies looking down on the river, Mystic River Resort is beautiful. For bird watchers like ourselves, there are over 250 species of birds on the property. The first morning a summer tanager dropped down to the railing when I walked out to claim her share of the banana bread (which hotel staff had brought to our door along with delicious coffee). The rooms are large and comfortable with both a fan and a fireplace. (A little too warm while we were there for the latter.) A very nice outdoor dining room with both hummingbird and platform feeders providing great interest especially in the morning. The staff are pleasant and solicitous of your well being. A thoroughly pleasant stay.

Authenticity & Character
Lovely cabins, decor throughout well done and consistent.
Location
Sited in untouched jungle, birds, birds, birds!
Staff
Way above average in friendliness and helpfulness.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was clean and comfortable/
Hotel Atitlán
Panajachel

Very different from Mystic River. Sculptured gardens and lots of flowers. Beautiful! Many birds, but not as many as Mystic River. Very comfortable room. Lovely restaurant with excellent choices and food.

Authenticity & Character
Very well done with a great deal of period pieces
Location
Right on Lake Atitlan with boat travel to various cool experiences.
Staff
Very helpful and efficient
Cleanliness & Comfort
Like most Latin hotel very clean, good shower, very comfortable
Azure Del Mar
Placencia

Again a huge switch, since this hotel is literally on the beach. What appears to be a very simplistic hotel turns out to be a very cozy stay with the wind off the Gulf blowing through the room day and night. There was no need of fan or air conditioning although a conditioner was provided. Palapa style office, dining room and cabins. Very intriguing! Thoroughly enjoyed our stay there

Authenticity & Character
Palapa says it all.
Location
Right on the beach, what more could you ask?
Staff
Extraordinarily helpful, efficient and thoughtful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean throughout. Very comfortable the way the cabins are sited!
Activity Review
Welcome to Guatemala
Welcome to Guatemala
Belize

Went off without a hitch. We were met by JJ as we came out of baggage claim, the car was loaded and we were on our way.

Quality of Experience
JJ is friendly, helpful, personable and efficient.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See above
Transport
Nice wheels.
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Apr 20, 2024
Oooww Jim, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We're so honored to read how JJ, David and Renee made your trip unforgettable with their exceptional personalities, passion and knowledge. We love to pay attention to details as it is our way to get to know you better so it means everything to us when we have the opportunity to develop an extraordinary match as we have done with you. It's wonderful to know you got the comfort and enjoyment throughout your journey. We... Read more

Oooww Jim, thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We're so honored to read how JJ, David and Renee made your trip unforgettable with their exceptional personalities, passion and knowledge. We love to pay attention to details as it is our way to get to know you better so it means everything to us when we have the opportunity to develop an extraordinary match as we have done with you. It's wonderful to know you got the comfort and enjoyment throughout your journey.

We appreciate your feedback regarding splitting birding and ruin watching into two days, as well as your observations about the reef in Belize. Your insights are valuable as we strive to continuously improve destinations and activities to keep providing memorable experiences for our friends like you.
And I have to be completely honest, you have a family with us now and forever! Thank you again.