Consejo Village

Nine miles north of Corozal [1], the tiny fishing village of Consejo is home to a beach hideaway, an upscale hotel, a nine-hole golf course, and a retirement community of some 400 North Americans called Consejo Shores (www.consejoshores.com [2]).

Rent one of three bayside units at Smuggler’s Den (two miles northwest of Consejo, tel. 501/600-9723, http://smugglersdenbelize.tripod.com [3], US$40–65), nicely furnished and with hot and cold water—quite a bargain if you’re looking for isolation. Two have private baths and kitchenettes; the unit without a kitchen is cheaper. Discounts can be had if requested. Smuggler’s is locally famous for its Sunday afternoon roast beef dinners; reserve in advance.

Right in Consejo, Casablanca by the Sea (tel. 501/423-1018, U.S. tel. 781/235-1024, www.casablanca-bythesea.com [4], from US$65) is an intimate hotel with lovely grounds and views of the Bay of Consejo. Casablanca has eight stately rooms with queen-size beds, private bathrooms, air-conditioning, hot and cold water, and TV. The bar and dining room offer excellent seafood dishes and other meals, eaten while watching the lights of Chetumal [5], just across the bay. There’s rooftop stargazing, volleyball, and top-notch conference/group facilities.

The New Millennium Restaurant, in the heart of Consejo village, is a friendly watering hole and eatery serving up daily specials at great prices (closed Tues.). Derricks Cozy Bar is a popular hangout in the afternoons, and you can meet other expats. Challenge Mr. Derrick to a game of dominoes, as he is a wily player.