With the rise of social media, it seems that everyone has the need to document everything, making it harder to get away during a vacation. More and more celebrities are choosing to vacation in Belize and where they go has become so predictable that “local paparazzi” are always on the alert at certain destinations.
Use this short guide to avoid the two common places that are known as celebrity hotspots in Belize.
1. Where to avoid: Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is the most visited place in Belize and it is not without merit. Picture a small Caribbean island surrounded by water that is all kinds of blue. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beach or do adventure activities such as snorkeling and diving. But it’s the most touristy spot in Belize and MOST celebrities end up there. So unless you want to be photographed, avoid La Isla Bonita.
Where to go instead: Toledo
Toledo is the least visited place in Belize and it is perfect for anyone looking to escape from the ordinary. Here you can find a few secluded jungle lodges that will allow you to get close to nature. Go hiking, learn about organic farming, take a chocolate making lesson, go fly fishing or take a trip to a nearby island where you can enjoy a beach BBQ and an afternoon of snorkeling.
2. Where to avoid: Placencia
Placencia is a charming village and due to its beautiful coast and uber nice beach resorts, it has become the second most visited celebrity hotspot. To be honest, the main reason why it’s common knowledge that celebrities will be in Placencia is because they will stay at Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn resort. Staff personnel are forbidden to disclose the identity of celebrity clients but it still seems to make its way to the village grapevine.
Where to go instead: Cayo
Cayo is the most western district and is known as the mecca for ecotourism activities in Belize. Cayo isn’t as secluded as Toledo but the various resorts offer a lot of privacy since they are usually some distance from towns. Here you can take trips to Maya ruins, explore ancient caves, go wildlife spotting, swim in natural pools with waterfalls, and try water sports such as canoeing or cave tubing.
It goes without saying that if you are a celebrity who is looking for some media attention or are someone who wants to vacation where celebrities have, do exactly the opposite of what I’ve recommended.
No doubt, celebrities are always treated nicely in Belize. This advice is for anyone who doesn’t want to make the local or international news – which of course will still be hard to achieve. With technology nowadays, anyone with a smartphone can become a “local paparazzi”, hence the quotes.
Celebrities have been coming to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye for years now and they have never had any problems with “local paparazzi” or other news teams. In fact, we salute them from a distance and they seem to love that. Also, upon request, some of the resorts in Ambergris Caye host celebrities and no one ever knows about it. Like when Michael Douglas, Harrison Ford, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lawrence and others came. Also, Derek Jeter and Jordana Brewster were walking all over town and no one bother them. Recently boxer Danny Garcia and girlfriend, Erica Mendez came and had a blast out and about.
Some celebrities like the attention and some don’t so no worries. Just come to Belize. Wherever you prefer.