Nightlife in San Ignacio Town

Jonathan Marroquin

Photo by Jonathan Marroquin

Nothing tops off the feeling of being young and free while kicking it with friends on a Saturday night; it’s a carefree atmosphere with a lively and energetic crew of friends. The vibrant ambiance of San Ignacio coupled with the exuberant aura of the people provides you with a state of euphoria.

The night starts by finding a parking space, but often that’s not an issue; just behind the Cayo Welcome Centre and adjacent to the Norman Broaster football stadium is a safe, well-lit parking space that anyone can use. Officially kicking the night off, however, is getting drinks: Bambu Tea, Love Town, The Spot, or Vivian’s are excellent choices and certainly, none will leave your taste buds in dismay.

Uniquely embellished with all shades of green plants that flawlessly contrast the pale grey concrete of its surroundings, Bambu Tea makes you feel as if you are in the middle of a tropical rainforest instead of civilization while waiting for your refreshing drinks in a swing used as a chair. Bambu Tea serves an endless menu of fruity and tea drinks for the health-conscious; from their iconic bubble teas with flavorful popping bobas and jellies to ‘Slooshies’ and ‘smoozies’ with real fruit! If not impressed already, the decorative team at Bambu Tea never falls behind with fancy and over-the-top seasonal decorations. For example, during the Christmas season, the venue looked as if the North Pole had landed in Belize! Another extravagant display came during Valentines with a huge wooden heart as the center piece, and who knows what is being planned for Easter.

On the other hand, whenever your taste palette is leaning towards a coffee-based drink, either hot or cold, with bitter, nutty, and roast-y characteristics, Vivian’s café has got you covered. Backed up by many satisfied customers from all over the world with comments like: “They're better than Starbucks Frappuccinos!”, Vivian’s is home for all coffee aficionados. Illuminated by warm light, and furnished with cozy and elegant furniture, Vivian’s features a rustic yet modern atmosphere to sip your coffee drink in.

Photo by Jonathan Marroquin

Once we’ve ordered our drinks we satisfy our ravenous appetite with authentic Belizean street food—which is the best at a decent price! I assure you the food vendors only seek to provide you with the best tacos, pizza, burritos, hot dogs, tamales/bollos, garnaches, etc. as if you were at a three-star Michelin restaurant. Walking along the streets, it is as if you were at a huge buffet: on one corner the sweet aroma of caramelized onions for the fantastic hot dogs drifts into your nostrils; on the other corner, the smoky scents of sizzling hot ‘carnitas’ and bacon slices also compete for your attention, while hints of gooey, creamy melted cheese from an oven hot pizza waft towards you; the street is filled with foods for your choosing.

On nights when I’m really hungry I go for the Mexican beef tacos since they’re served with real hand-made corn tortillas that are fried in the juicy fat of the well-seasoned ‘carnitas’ beef cubes on a steaming hot comal. Nestled in between the walls of the tortillas alongside the beef I also ask for salsa verde, pico de gallo, and pepper sauce to complement the beef. If avocado slices are available, I will surely and politely request some. If your stomach is bottomless like mine, you should order at least ten tacos which will only set you back by ten dollars; in my book, it is worth it.

On the other hand, if you’re like my friend Tristan, and prefer American fast foods like burgers or hot dogs, there’s a food stall just in front of Courts called ‘Royal Taste’ which serves you a delicious hot dog or burger with crazy combinations to choose from. An honorable mention goes to Yoli’s Pizza. My friend Leah says that their pizza is immaculate. Finally, after ordering food, we decide to eat elsewhere, as the food stalls are always crammed with hungry customers. So, we either head to the Norman Broaster Stadium, sit beside the Macal River, or just eat at the Welcome Centre. In terms of safety, you should choose the Welcome Centre where there’s a bunch of people who can look out for you. However, if you want some privacy, the stadium is a great option, although it’s shrouded in darkness. The Macal riverbank, also dark at night, is the most dangerous option since it’s located on outskirts of town, so be warned.

Photo by Jonathan Marroquin

With our drinks in one hand and food in the other, we cheerfully stroll to the stadium and climb to the highest bleachers for the view. Other than eating we also catch up with each other’s lives as it is less than often, we can hang out. Coupled with the cool breeze and the huge full moon overhead, the stadium is a real chill spot to converse. When everyone has eaten, we might grab ice cream for dessert at Vivian’s, getting there by either walking or by riding in Anthony’s car if we’re tired (most of the time, yes, we are after eating so much food). Vivian’s is famously known for its iced coffee drinks; less known but equally as great is their homemade ice cream. The classic chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice creams are indeed tasty and won’t disappoint. However, the butter pecan is just on another level; it’s creamy, sweet, and nutty. If the inside of Vivian’s is packed, which it usually is, we relax and wait for our dessert on the outside patio, which is decorated with string lights and has tall rustic bar stools and tables. Once we get our order, we end the night with a car ride while eating ice cream.

All in all, if you’re looking for a great night out with friends or even family without breaking the bank you should really try the amazing town of San Ignacio; it’s affordable, entertaining and most of all you create unforgettable long-lasting memories!