Healing in Paradise: My Solo Trip to Belize

 This trip to Belize was my first getaway after losing my father, and to say it was much needed would be an understatement. I was in the early stages of grief—barely functioning. Work felt impossible, relationships became strained, and even getting out of bed took all the strength I had. I cried every day. I couldn’t look at pictures of my father without breaking down. I withdrew from everything and everyone. I was angry—at the world, at my grandmother, even at my therapist lol. The only person I felt like I could turn to was my mother—my comfort and constant. When I wasn’t with her or talking to her, the only thing that gave me peace was travel.

So, I booked a solo trip to Belize.

It had been on my list for a while, but after doing some research on destinations known for relaxation and healing, Belize kept popping up. The stars aligned—I had a bunch of points from the Southwest Christmas meltdown, so the flight was basically free. There’s nothing better than a free international ticket when your soul is aching.

Like with most solo international trips, I was a little nervous before departure. But the moment I arrived at my first resort—Sleeping Giant Lodge in Belmopan—those nerves faded. The resort is nestled in the middle of a lush rainforest, and it felt like I’d stepped into a dream. Surrounded by towering green trees, lush greenery, vibrant tropical flowers, and the sounds of nature and birds, I felt something I hadn’t felt in a long time: calm. My room even had a patio overlooking a small pond full of fish. It was truly magical.

I spent most of my time at the lodge resting because that’s what my body and spirit needed. But I still explored the massive resort.  I lounged by the pool day and night, went hiking to the top of a mountain to catch breathtaking views, did yoga at an outdoor studio that overlooked a river, and even rode bikes around the resort. That last one was special—my dad taught me how to ride a bike, and we used to cruise around the city together when I was younger. That memory made me smile.  There were other activities at the resort as well, like horseback riding, water rafting, and more.

I also dined at the restaurants on site.  The food was incredible—fresh and flavorful, thanks to their on-site farm. My favorite? Fried jacks, a Belizean breakfast treat I still dream about. The restaurant also played soft jazz that spoke to my soul. I found myself Shazam-ing everything. That trip sparked a love for jazz I didn’t even know I had.

Sleeping Giant was the perfect introduction to Belize. The location is peaceful and serene, the staff is kind and welcoming, and the entire experience felt like a deep exhale. Getting there from the airport was a little chaotic, but it was well worth it. My only regret? Not staying longer. It’s definitely the kind of place I’d return to—next time, maybe with someone special. While it’s very solo-travel friendly and safe, it definitely gives couples or family retreat vibes.

After leaving the rainforest (tears), I made my way to San Pedro. I took a water taxi from Belize City, which sounded dreamy in theory since I love the water but was… not. It was crowded, uncomfortable, and I spotted a rodent. Thankfully, I only booked a one-way ticket and took a short flight back instead.

San Pedro instantly gave me Caribbean island energy, which makes sense given Belize’s rich mix of Spanish, Native, and Afro-Caribbean culture. My next stop was the Hilton Mahogany Bay Resort. While it was beautiful, it didn’t quite match the peace I felt at Sleeping Giant. It was more lively and bustling. Still, I made the most of it. The cute cottage-style rooms were a win, and I reminded myself how blessed I was just to be there.

During my time on the island, I snorkeled, swam with lemon sharks, and went deep-water diving. There’s something about being in the middle of the ocean that soothes my spirit. I felt like the water was washing away my pain. I also visited the private Mahogany Bay Beach Club—a short boat ride from the resort. I have mixed feelings about private beaches in countries where locals can’t access the land, but the beach itself was stunning: white sand, clear water, swaying palms, and complete peace.

I spent my days reading with a cocktail in hand and my nights dancing by the resort pool, which occasionally turned into a full-on party with a DJ. I even did a little shopping—picked up a handmade embroidered dress that I still haven’t worn smh. 

Eventually, it was time to return.  I wasn’t ready to leave.  I took a short flight back to Belize City and shed a tear.  This was my first solo trip where I explored multiple regions, and I still didn’t get to see everything I wanted. The Mayan ruins and the butterfly pavilion are still on my list. Next time, I want to explore Placencia in Southern Belize. I hear there’s a stronger Black Caribbean presence there, and I love to see my people from different countries.  I also love learning about their history as it relates to colonialism and how it relates or differs from mine.

I’ve even added Belize to my list of potential retirement destinations. It checks all my boxes: beaches, diversity, affordability, a slower pace, and nourishing food. I’ll need to go back and explore more before making any decisions—but I’ve got time. Hopefully.

Belize was more than just a vacation. It was a retreat. A reminder to breathe. A chance to heal. I’ll always be grateful that I followed my intuition and booked that trip. If I could do anything differently, I’d start with the party vibe and end with serenity. But every part of the journey taught me something. This trip was a part of my healing journey in more ways than one.