When CNN named the world’s top 10 cuisines, writer Zoe Li mentioned Italy, France, Mexico, Thailand, Greece, India, Japan, Spain, China, and the U.S. Ask savvy foodies for a comment and expect feedback. Belize is fast outpacing many nations when it comes to eclectic cuisine, which is why Conde Nast Traveler writer Julia Eskins’ article, “Why Belize Should Be On Every Culinary Enthusiast’s Radar,” paints a more accurate picture!
Focusing as much on the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, rainforests, and Maya sites as she does on the food, Eskins advises tourists to “follow the aroma of coconut curry shrimp” to find nirvana. Foodies, it seems, come south to indulge in tastes from myriad cultures: Chinese, Creole, East Indian, Garifuna, Maya, Mestizo, and more. Belize has become a melting pot in every sense of the term!
Eskins asked cultural anthropologist and Belize resident Lyra Spang why her homeland isn’t better represented on lists like CNN’s. Her response? “People are often pleasantly surprised by how good our food is because they haven’t heard much about it. Not only do we have traditional food but there’s also culinary innovation happening in Belize.” Find out for yourself by heading south.
Stay on a tropical island; eat like royalty
To fully appreciate Belize’s gastronomical scene, choose a resort that reflects Belize’s beauty and Caribbean vibe. Make Coco Plum Island your epicenter of pleasure and you’ll return home blissed out. This adults-only sanctuary has so few private cabanas around the island’s edge; you’ll have to be intentional if you want to run into other guests.
Because your major reason for visiting Belize is to give your taste buds the TLC they deserve, you’ll be delighted to eat up Coco Plum’s all-inclusive package, which includes your accommodations, meals, boat transfers, aquatic sporting options, and more. Island activities and add-on tours include the swimming pool, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and birding and guests gain access to kayaks, paddle boards, and Hobie Cat sailing. These will help you stay fit so you needn’t worry about packing on pounds! Dare we mention spa services?
Your compliments to the chefs are appreciated
“Food was 10x better than your typical all-inclusive,” one foodie proclaimed after returning from Coco Plum. “We had grilled lobster, tostadas, grilled shrimp, bacon wrapped pork, tamales, tacos, grilled snapper, pasta, amazing fish strips, fry jacks, banana pancakes, French toast, bacon, fruit, cookies, and so much more.” Is your appetite triggered? Wait until you view mouth-watering photos taken at Coco Plum’s private restaurant.
Do you worry about dietary restrictions? Let the chefs know and they’ll be delighted to accommodate them. The culinary scene is vibrant. The staffers are warm and welcoming. And the food is divine. Low season rates are still in effect, and the pièce de resistance is possibly landing a reservation during Lobsterfest, the annual celebration of this tasty crustacean. As always, bibs are invited and you are, too!
