After arriving at Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport on October 28, 2022, I traveled inland to Ka’ana Resort near San Ignacio.

The transition from the airport into Belize’s lush interior immediately created a sense of discovery. The farther we traveled, the more the pace of everyday life seemed to fall away.

Ka’ana provided a beautiful introduction to the country. Rather than simply checking into the resort and having dinner, we participated in a culinary experience. Preparing and learning about local food connected us to Belize from the very first evening.

That experience reminded me that luxury does not always have to mean formality. Sometimes, luxury is having the time and opportunity to meet local people, learn their traditions and understand a destination through its food.