_edited.png)
Raisa Locario ♦
Where do you go after weeks of hard work at school or on your job? Even the wind would whisper, “COPAL TREE LODGE!”
My parents thought it was time once again to plan and execute our annual family vacation. We decided on a location approximately six miles from where we live in Punta Gorda: Copal Tree Lodge, a resort in the deep south of Belize, in the Toledo district. My parents made reservations via telephone and e-mail, and soon we were on our way!
On the approach to the lodge, we were all struck by the abundance of trees and flowers in the tropical forest surrounding the attractive, well-built structures. Immediately I knew the rest of the trip would be a great adventure. We were greeted with heart-warming smiles from the employees. However, we soon gathered that the complimentary drinks were only for visitors who would stay at the resort for a night or more. We were only going to be there for lunch and a tour.
First we got a brief history of the resort and learned that in only a few short years Copal Tree Lodge, previously named Belcampo Belize, has grown rapidly from a sustainable agritourism farm to an award-winning, world-class destination that attracts travelers from around the world. Next, we were taken on a guided tour of the farm. Our guide explained that the majority of the food cooked at the restaurant comes from the farm. The farm workers raise poultry and sheep and grow crops such as papaya, cocoa, sugar-cane, cashew, vanilla, and mint. Throughout the tour, the guide shared facts about the various plants and how the resort uses them. We also learned that Copal Tree Lodge has its own distillery where rum and other alcoholic beverages are produced. My parents were able to taste small portions of some of the beverages.
After exploring the farm we were quite hungry, so we headed to the restaurant. Most of us ordered baked lobster in garlic sauce, mashed potatoes, and fresh green salad made of vegetables straight from the farm. Of course, this was served with fresh fruit juices, also sourced by the farm. The food was delicious! The best we had ever tasted—no disrespect to my mom who is, most certainly, a great cook. It was a hot day in June, but there was a steady breeze that cooled us down. During lunch, my family and I had a wonderful time talking and sharing many jokes.
Once we were done with our meal, we went on a hike which I will never forget. We had to be brave as we trekked over the uneven terrain, up and down hills. My father wasted no time fetching his Nikon camera. He took several pictures of the colorful flora and fauna. These and the scenery all around were breathtaking! Were we really in Belize, or was this just my imagination?!
Of course, we had been wise enough to use bug spray and wear appropriate clothing. We stopped near the bank of the Rio Grande River for a few minutes to relax. Some howler monkeys came to say hello as they climbed from tree to tree. We were offered to go kayaking but we had to decline since we did not bring extra clothes for such an activity. Another choice was to go horse-back riding. At first, my siblings and I were hesitant, afraid of falling. However, we eventually got on the horses and there were no accidents. Actually, horseback riding is very enjoyable. A bumpy ride, but wonderful as we rode through the paths taking in the evergreen vegetation that surrounded us.
Then we did zip lining, which was also exciting! The sight from above was unbelievable. Indeed, all nature lovers would love to stay at the elevation provided by ziplining in order to appreciate the wonderful scenery below. My body was fueled with adrenaline, wanting to do more. Meanwhile, my parents remained on the ground—my dad looking around and taking more pictures while my mom got the opportunity to observe how a meal or two were prepared. This was just the culinary experience she was waiting for! Having so much love and appreciation for cooking, she had been very eager to visit the kitchen.
At the end of our eventful day, I stared into the sunset and allowed my mind to drift into deep thought. I concluded that I was a fortunate person, being able to spend such a wonderful time with the most important people in my life. Such family bonding is something that is becoming rare. I felt grateful and blessed to have them around. Imagine! A great family adventure right here in my birthplace in southern Belize.
Photos by Dar Locario, Bryan Mangar, Avidani Ramclam, and Copal Tree Lodge.
Raisa Locario is a student at the University of Belize, majoring in medical laboratory science. She lives in Punta Gorda Town and enjoys reading, baking pastries, and spending time with her family.