SunshineQueen

Hi all. This is my first post though I've often used the various posts to plan vacations.

We are planning a family vacation (3 generations) to Belize in late-Oct 2008. The family is well traveled however the youngest on this trip will be our 5 1/2 month old son.

Reading all the advise, we're thinking about splitting the trip between Cayo and Ambergris Caye.

First, how safe is it to travel through Belize with a small infant? Water quality? Immunization requirements?

We'd like to spend 2-3 days in the Cayo region exploring the caves, ruins, San Igancio and maybe Tikal. Is Tikal wise to do with a little one? If so, where should we stay? Can we do all these destinations from San Ignacio or do we need to plan to stay a night in Tikal?

The next 5-7 days will be on Ambergris Caye just relaxing and soaking up the beach/water activities. We're looking into staying at either Captain Morgan's Vacation Beach Resort or Costa Maya Reef Resort - both part of our time share inventory. Any feedback on these resorts would be helpful.

Again, please advise if Belize is a realistic destination to consider with an infant.

Thanks.

LvSun

We stayed at the Jaguar Reef Lodge, Hopkins, Stann Creek District, Belize. The water was not suitable for drinking, etc. but the lodge had water containers in the room which was "safe" for drinking, etc.

Circumstances may be different in the area or hotel where you are staying. You may want to email them with this question. (In Roatan, Honduras last month, the resort we stayed at had it's own purification system).

We did not do any immunization for Belize. We did maleria meds for Roatan so I am somewhat health safety concerned.

Katie_Valk

Ambergris hasa large selections of hotels, inns, condos and hosue rental perfect for families. Some of the lodges in Cayo have larger 2,3 and 4 bedroom options. Water and food are clean in Belize and safe for people of all ages, you'll use bottled water on the caye. No shots or meds required, but talk to your doc. Lots of walking while touring Tikal, but its the most impressive site in the Maya empire and easy to visit on a day or overnight trip from Cayo. Easy to arrange for a babysitter when required.

SusanSDG

Chaa Creek in the Cayo is very family friendly,and kids stay free(though a stroller would be useless-bring a backpack or sling). They have their own water purification system, and a kids menu. You'd be fine with a baby. Xunantunich is minutes away.

I spent the night at Tikal, which was the highlight of my trip-Jungle Lodge is steps from the ruins and we watched spider and howler monkeys, parrots and toucans from the pool. With multiple adults to watch kids, some of you could do the sunrise tour while the kiddies sleep in. I am not a shopper, but did all my Christmas shopping in Guatemala.

SunshineQueen

Thank you so much for all the great feedback. The baby boy is due in a week so we'll wait to confirm that all is healthy with the baby before booking our ticket. Sounds like Belize should be fine to do with a baby.

Will post for add'l suggestions once we finalize our itinerary. Thanks again for all the great input.

SusanSDG

Congratulations and best wishes for a safe and healthy delivery! I'll post my full trip report soon.

Linda137

We spent a week at Captain Morgan's a few years ago and loved it. It is a way from town though. You'll need to take a water taxi or rent a golf cart and that might be a bit much with a tiny one. I'd consider a place that is walking distance to town. Don't worry about San Pedro as far as safety. It's very mellow and friendly.

I wouldn't worry too much about shots although Hep A/B is probably a good one to have. Most everyone drinks bottled water and it is very easy to find.

Otober might be a bit rainy on Ambergris. We were there in early December and still had a bit of rain. Try to bring clothing and shoes that dry easily in case you get caught in a down pour.

The sand fleas can get bad. I understand if you put on a lot of lotion or oil, they stay off for the most part.

Drug stores aren't that common so try to bring what you'll need.