Looking for opinions on good hotels in Belize somewhat near the int'l airport. We're flying out early one morning, so I wanted to find a decent hotel in a safe area that will be relatively quick to get to in the morning.

There is the mid range Embassy Hotel across from the intl airport, never stayed there, but assume it's okay. Next closest would be Belize Biltmore, a 15 minute drive from the intl with pool, restaurant, entertainment some nights, cable, ac, etc.

My opinion: The Embassy (the name is a lot grander than the hotel) is okay, just barely,in a pinch, but it's a bit run down and not a tremendous introduction to Belize. Villa Boscardi, which has a free shuttle to and from the international airport, is a fine choice, and the renovated rooms at Biltmore Plaza are pretty good, though you'll pay US$17.50 taxi fare coming and going to the Biltmore, same as if you were going all the way into town.<BR><BR>--Lan Sluder

Len, I would love more information about Villa Boscardi. Location, transportation, service, people who run this place, cost, food,contact information, etc.<BR>Thanks

[Three Stars Plus] Villa Boscardi, 6043 Manatee Dr. (P.O. Box 1501), Belize City; tel./fax 501-223-31691; e-mail [email protected]; www.villaboscardi.com. If you&Otilde;re nervous about staying in beautiful downtown Belize City (you shouldn&Otilde;t be, but many are), this B&B, with four rooms and a small cottage in a residential neighborhood between the city centre and the International Airport could be perfect for you. Owners Franco and Francoise Boscardi have turned their Buttonwood Bay home into a lovely place to overnight. Rooms are delightfully decorated and air-conditioned, all with private baths. Plus, you get a full breakfast included in the rate, and the Boscardis offer free transport to and from the airports, except on Sunday. They also rent cars at rates lower than most majors. Rates US$65-$75 double year-round.<BR><BR>--Lan Sluder<BR>Belize First<BR>www.belizefirst.com <BR>

Thanks to Katie and Lan for responding to my post. Just wanted to let others who may be looking for a place convenient to the int'l airport that Villa Boscardi is a GREAT choice. After investigating the options presented, we decided to stay there and were thrilled. The rooms and grounds are absolutely charming -- classy, warm and distinctive -- with great attention to detail. The owners were extremely nice...and they not only drove us to the airport (for free) for a very early morning flight, but also drove us to dinner the night before. If I go back to Belize, I'll definitely stay there again.

Tikal is safe, as long you use your common sense. My advice is to use the services of good and trusty operators and you would not have any problem. Visit the other wonderful places that Peten offers, as the Petexbatun Lagoon. Its a once in a lifetime experience.