COTTON TREE LODGE- Belize
Let’s face it, these conditions in the atmosphere lately are just enough to make even the most fearless traveler question their next venture, and this past week’s volcanic ash-induced massive matrix of European flight delays is no exception. It might be the perfect time to consider heading south, and when you’re ready, brilliant Belize will be waiting to welcome you with open arms along with the owners of Cotton Tree Lodge.

This is a magical place indeed, nestled between rainforest and river, and just miles from the beach so watersports fiends need not fret. It’s all about connecting with nature, and the basics here in every sense...explorations of ancient ruins, Mayan villages, waterfalls, medicinal plant walks, paddling upstream in a dugout canoe, and the occasional spelunk are part of the everyday itinerary here. Or, you can just rather opt to laze around in a hammock all day if you please. The choice is really yours. Either way, you’re treated to your own private cabana with a traditional bay leaf thatched roof, kept cool by ceiling fans and open to the sounds of nature with full screens, and kept native with local handcarved wood and handwoven textiles.

Sustainability is what Cotton Tree Lodge is all about- from the freshest ingredients grown in their own organic garden and served to you in their restaurant, to full solar powered systems, reusable water bottles, reforestation initiatives and even a non profit initiative that assists local farmers in learning how to grow organic (which guests can even participate in as well). So, bypass the brouhaha and get down to basics in Belize.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 20% on Cotton Tree’s all inclusive rates for travel through 31 July and then 26 Oct – 18 Dec 2010. That’s transfers from Punta Gorda, all meals, daily tours, and onsite activities too. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!