 |
| Get started planning your trip. |
As I shared in my June goals post, we have been struggling to decide on a family vacation destination for next winter. Winter is the only season we can take a big trip because of Graham’s work schedule. We look for several things in a travel spot: Beaches, warm weather (to escape Chicago’s winter), family-friendly options and outdoor activities. We also seek out relative affordability compared with popular destinations.
One of the destination ideas that has come up is Belize, but we wondered whether we could find many activities to do with Victoria. We want to take her along on our trips as much as possible so that she grows up being exposed to different cultures and being open-minded. We also want her to try new foods; her parents love doing it!
I am definitely the planning type, so I like to do my research before deciding on a trip. When I found Anywhere.com, I was intrigued by the idea of having a new guide that actually uses local experts to aid in planning.
First, you start by selecting your trip destination. Then you pick your desired dates and check activities you are interested in. You also select how active of a traveler you’d like to be, from relaxed (not many activities and destinations) to active. You also choose what type of accommodations you’d like: We like affordable but clean rooms, preferably with breakfast included. You enter your estimated budget and how you’d prefer to get around as well (private or shared). Then you enter your name and email/phone.
Why Belize? We don’t like to go to cookie-cutter or one-size-fits-all vacation spots. We wanted the opportunity to try unique outdoor activities and learn more about the Mayan civilization. I’ve always been fascinated by it.
 |
| Xunantunich |
Within hours of inputting my preferences, my designated travel expert, Andrea, contacted me with a proposed plan. From there you can review your activities and destinations and make changes as needed. If you like what you see, you can go ahead and book. The plan includes the price per person for the vacation, so that there aren’t any surprises. In case you’re wondering, the service is completely free! The travel expert is available via phone call or text, or you can respond to the email you get with your plan.
Anywhere.com makes planning super easy for those who don’t have time to spend hours searching
online for family activities. My plan included a stay in San Ignacio, which is near Cahal Pech and Xunantunich, two Mayan ruin sites dating back to 1200 B.C.
In addition, we’d stay in beachfront resorts on Ambergris Caye, where we could relax and swim. Of course, the plan you receive is just a starting point. You can add or subtract locations and activities to fit your preferences. I plan to adjust this plan a bit more until we come up with the perfect itinerary, but if you’re short on time and don’t feel like spending hours on research, you’ve got the ideal tool.
Top nature activities that caught our eye:
- Jaguar preserve tour
- Belize Zoo
- Monkey River tour
Looking to play a family trip to Belize? You can get the process started on the website and then text, call or email your Anywhere.com travel expert for Belize (and other destinations). You can also use my referral link to get a $75 credit when you book a qualifying vacation.
Check out my Pinterest board for Belize vacation inspiration.
Where do you want to travel next? What activities would you do in Belize?
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.