B E L I Z E

executive summary by darmansjah

TURTEL INN  “When I was making Apocalypse Now, I became infatuated with the jungle,” says Francis For Coppola about what first led him to Belize. On the beach here he built an eco-complex of 25 thatched cottages where the famous filmmaker comes to chill out. Steady ocean breezes replace artificial air conditioning, stainless steel water bottles take priority over plastic, and an expansive organic garden and fresh seafood delivered by local fishermen supply the menu, along with a stash of choice wines from Coppola’s own vineyards. The inn partners with SEA Belize and Rainforest Alliance for marine conservation. Popular outings include jaunts to nearby Placencia village or the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef just offshore.. 25 cottages; from $299, including continental breakfast.