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Living in San Ignacio Town: What Expats Love About This Belize Town

San Ignacio, located in western Belize, has quietly become one of the country’s most loved expat towns. Nestled along the Macal River and surrounded by lush jungle, it’s a place where adventure, culture, and comfort blend seamlessly. For expats looking for a new home or a slower pace of life, San Ignacio offers more than just beauty; it offers community and opportunity.

Why San Ignacio is a Top Choice for Expats in Belize

One of the top reasons expats choose San Ignacio is the friendliness of its people. Belizeans are known for their warm hospitality, and San Ignacio’s diverse community—locals, Mestizos, Creoles, Garifuna, Maya, and international residents—makes integration easy. Expats quickly find themselves part of social gatherings, market days, and even local celebrations.

At the same time, the cost of living is refreshingly affordable compared to North America or Europe. Fresh produce from the bustling farmers’ market, locally sourced meats, and low-cost dining options make daily life budget-friendly. Yet, modern comforts are never far away, with grocery stores, banks, medical clinics, and high-speed internet available right in town.

From Adventure to Community: Life in San Ignacio

Living in San Ignacio means having endless adventures right at your doorstep. Expats love that world-famous Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech are just minutes away, while the ATM Cave and Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve are only a short drive out of town. Weekends can be spent tubing down the river, zip-lining through the jungle, or exploring hidden waterfalls.

Cultural life is equally vibrant. San Ignacio’s Saturday farmers market is legendary—expats mingle with locals while shopping for fresh fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, and traditional Belizean dishes. Add in a growing food scene with international restaurants, cozy cafés, and fine dining options, and it’s easy to see why expats feel right at home here.

Experience the Best of Belize Living at Villa Massis

Perhaps what expats love most about San Ignacio is the balance it brings to life. Here, mornings might begin with a walk by the river, afternoons with a hammock nap, and evenings with a Belikin beer shared among friends. It’s a slower, more intentional pace of life—one that blends peace, community, and adventure in a way few places can match.

For those ready to see why San Ignacio is so beloved, Villa Massis offers the perfect place to experience it all. Our luxury villas are set in the jungle overlooking the river, just minutes from town, giving you the best of both worlds: quiet seclusion and easy access to San Ignacio’s charm. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or exploring Belize as your next home, Villa Massis is your base for discovering why expats fall in love with San Ignacio.

👉 Book your stay at Villa Massis today and see what makes San Ignacio so special.

Contact Villa Massis

Email: info@villamassis.com

Phone: +1 (438)-701-8024

WhatsApp: +501 614-1506

Website:https://villamassis.com

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Guest Reviews

Dana S
9/16/2024 - Google

				What a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience... read moreWhat a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience multi course, freshly prepared, local cuisine this is your place. … read less			
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Dana S
9/16/2024

						What a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience multi course, freshly prepared, local cuisine this is your place. …
					
D Smith
9/15/2024 - Google

				What a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience... read moreWhat a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience multi course, freshly prepared, local cuisine this is your place. If you like a full service experience, but also the option to be secluded this is your place.  If you like to have someone born and raised in the area to be able to assist you in your sightseeing itinerary AND book all of your excursions with local, very experienced guides this is your place.  Our family of 4 spent several nights here in July 2024 and plan to return again. As others have said, Larry, Mel and Lucy go above and beyond to make your stay exceptional. The grounds are lush and beautiful and wildlife can be seen on site. The rooms are spotless, well appointed, beautifully decorated, the beds are comfortable, and the A/C works great.  Villa Massis made an already amazing trip to Belize truly exceptional. read less			
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D Smith
9/15/2024

						What a gem!  If you like a boutique hotel vibe this is your place. If you like to experience multi course, freshly prepared, local cuisine this is your place. If you like a full service experience, but also the option to be secluded this is your place.  If you like to have someone born and raised in the area to be able to assist you in your sightseeing itinerary AND book all of your excursions with local, very experienced guides this is your place.  Our family of 4 spent several nights here in July 2024 and plan to return again. As others have said, Larry, Mel and Lucy go above and beyond to make your stay exceptional. The grounds are lush and beautiful and wildlife can be seen on site. The rooms are spotless, well appointed, beautifully decorated, the beds are comfortable, and the A/C works great.  Villa Massis made an already amazing trip to Belize truly exceptional.
					
Kerstin Kuhn
8/14/2024 - Google

				We loved staying at Villa Massis. Larry, Mel and Lucy are the most wonderful hosts, so welcoming and kind.

The location... read moreWe loved staying at Villa Massis. Larry, Mel and Lucy are the most wonderful hosts, so welcoming and kind.

The location of Villa Massis is brilliant, just a little outside of San Ignacio but close enough to pop into town for dinner and perfect for all the incredible attractions nearby. The grounds are lovely, you feel like you’re in the jungle in the beautifully maintained gardens and the pool is divine. The property feels really new and well kept and we were extremely comfortable in our two-bed, two-bath unit; everything was pristine and we didn’t miss a thing.

Larry is a fountain of knowledge on all things Belize (he’s written a book about it) and gave us really great and helpful tips on what to during our four days in San Ignacio, ensuring we made the absolute most of our time. Which we did.

Mel had the most amazing dinner ready for us on our first night when we arrived really late and the breakfast was different and delicious every morning.

We have only good things to share about Villa Massis and its owners. Belizean hospitality at its best! read less			
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Kerstin Kuhn
8/14/2024

						We loved staying at Villa Massis. Larry, Mel and Lucy are the most wonderful hosts, so welcoming and kind.
The location of Villa Massis is brilliant, just a little outside of San Ignacio but close enough to pop into town for dinner and perfect for all the incredible attractions nearby. The grounds are lovely, you feel like you’re in the jungle in the beautifully maintained gardens and the pool is divine. The property feels really new and well kept and we were extremely comfortable in our two-bed, two-bath unit; everything was pristine and we didn’t miss a thing.
Larry is a fountain of knowledge on all things Belize (he’s written a book about it) and gave us really great and helpful tips on what to during our four days in San Ignacio, ensuring we made the absolute most of our time. Which we did.
Mel had the most amazing dinner ready for us on our first night when we arrived really late and the breakfast was different and delicious every morning.
We have only good things to share about Villa Massis and its owners. Belizean hospitality at its best!
					
Ben Rosen
6/24/2024 - Google

				If you are reading this and trying to decide where to stay in the San Ignacio area, just stop and... read moreIf you are reading this and trying to decide where to stay in the San Ignacio area, just stop and make the reservations for Villa Massis.

We got back from Belize and spent our first few days on the west side of the country. I was worried about where to stay and came across this resort and took a chance based upon other reviews. I have to say that we were so happy that we chose this place to base ourselves out of while in the San Ignacio area.

Larry, Mel and all of the rest of the gang were so great and helpful. Larry has a wealth of knowledge (literally, wrote the book) on all things Belize.  He sat down and took the time to write out a complete itinerary for us and made sure we saw the best of the area.  This included the ATM cave, Rio pools, caves, ruins, waterfalls among other things.

Mel cooked us some superb meals and demonstrated her top notch kitchen skills.  Our  tasty breakfast was ready every morning to kickstart our day and our Belizean dinners were all prepped and ready no matter what time we got back from exploring the country.

The rooms had everything we could ask for and the Belizean art made it extra special.    Only regret was that we were so busy that we didn’t get to hang out around their new pool.  We can’t say enough good things about this place and would recommend it to anyone.

Thank you to Villa Massis for making my kids first experience in Belize a wonderful one. We will definitely be staying with you all in the future. read less			
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Ben Rosen
6/24/2024

						If you are reading this and trying to decide where to stay in the San Ignacio area, just stop and make the reservations for Villa Massis.
We got back from Belize and spent our first few days on the west side of the country. I was worried about where to stay and came across this resort and took a chance based upon other reviews. I have to say that we were so happy that we chose this place to base ourselves out of while in the San Ignacio area.
Larry, Mel and all of the rest of the gang were so great and helpful. Larry has a wealth of knowledge (literally, wrote the book) on all things Belize.  He sat down and took the time to write out a complete itinerary for us and made sure we saw the best of the area.  This included the ATM cave, Rio pools, caves, ruins, waterfalls among other things.
Mel cooked us some superb meals and demonstrated her top notch kitchen skills.  Our  tasty breakfast was ready every morning to kickstart our day and our Belizean dinners were all prepped and ready no matter what time we got back from exploring the country.
The rooms had everything we could ask for and the Belizean art made it extra special.    Only regret was that we were so busy that we didn’t get to hang out around their new pool.  We can’t say enough good things about this place and would recommend it to anyone.
Thank you to Villa Massis for making my kids first experience in Belize a wonderful one. We will definitely be staying with you all in the future.
					
Gretchen Walburn
6/20/2024 - Google

				Just returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have... read moreJust returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have had traveling. The staff were extremely friendly. The rooms were clean and stocked with everything you would need during your stay. The chef Mel was beyond amazing! Her food was delicious and her service was 5-Star! Everything was very high end and luxurious! I will definitely be returning to this special little jungle oasis! read less			
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Gretchen Walburn
6/20/2024

						Just returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have had traveling. The staff were extremely friendly. The rooms were clean and stocked with everything you would need during your stay. The chef Mel was beyond amazing! Her food was delicious and her service was 5-Star! Everything was very high end and luxurious! I will definitely be returning to this special little jungle oasis!
					
Gretchen W
6/20/2024 - Google

				Just returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have... read moreJust returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have had traveling. The staff were extremely friendly. The rooms were clean and stocked with everything you would need during your stay. … read less			
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Gretchen W
6/20/2024

						Just returned home and I am already ready to go back! This was one of the best stays I have had traveling. The staff were extremely friendly. The rooms were clean and stocked with everything you would need during your stay. …
					
Samantha R
6/01/2024 - Google

				Our stay at Villa Massis was hands down the best Belizean experience we ever could have hoped for. We stayed... read moreOur stay at Villa Massis was hands down the best Belizean experience we ever could have hoped for. We stayed in the most beautiful, fully supplied room with a balcony that provided the amazing views of the jungle. … read less			
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Samantha R
6/01/2024

						Our stay at Villa Massis was hands down the best Belizean experience we ever could have hoped for. We stayed in the most beautiful, fully supplied room with a balcony that provided the amazing views of the jungle. …
					
Samantha H
5/27/2024 - Google

				The best way to describe Larry’s Dreamhouse is magical. Everything about this place will enchant you. …			
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Samantha H
5/27/2024

						The best way to describe Larry’s Dreamhouse is magical. Everything about this place will enchant you. …
					
Rendy H
5/20/2024 - Google

				Our stay at Villa Massis exceeded all expectations. The villas are spacious, modern, and impeccably clean. The attention to detail... read moreOur stay at Villa Massis exceeded all expectations. The villas are spacious, modern, and impeccably clean. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the luxurious linens to the local artwork. … read less			
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Rendy H
5/20/2024

						Our stay at Villa Massis exceeded all expectations. The villas are spacious, modern, and impeccably clean. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the luxurious linens to the local artwork. …
					
Kristin H
5/03/2024 - Google

				Coming to Villa Massis is like coming home, only your home is  beyond beautiful, and your family is welcoming... read moreComing to Villa Massis is like coming home, only your home is  beyond beautiful, and your family is welcoming and accommodating. |From the moment we arrived, we were greeted warmly and entered into a beautiful accommodation. … read less			
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Kristin H
5/03/2024

						Coming to Villa Massis is like coming home, only your home is  beyond beautiful, and your family is welcoming and accommodating. |From the moment we arrived, we were greeted warmly and entered into a beautiful accommodation. …
					
Jeffrey D
3/03/2024 - Google

				Amazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree... read moreAmazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree Falls. The Villa is really its own oasis nestled in the village and the staff is awesome. … read less			
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Jeffrey D
3/03/2024

						Amazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree Falls. The Villa is really its own oasis nestled in the village and the staff is awesome. …
					
lmdarrin
3/03/2024 - Google

				I visited this place to have a meal and check out the rooms and pool for my next stay. The... read moreI visited this place to have a meal and check out the rooms and pool for my next stay. The grounds were beautiful. The pool sparkled and the two rooms I could see were large and well appointed. … read less			
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lmdarrin
3/03/2024

						I visited this place to have a meal and check out the rooms and pool for my next stay. The grounds were beautiful. The pool sparkled and the two rooms I could see were large and well appointed. …
					
Alex Y
3/03/2024 - Google

				Thank you to Larry, Mel, Lucy and the rest of the crew for providing an amazing four day stay! If... read moreThank you to Larry, Mel, Lucy and the rest of the crew for providing an amazing four day stay! If you're looking for a quiet and relaxing base for adventuring in Cayo, I highly recommend Villa Massis. My room had everything I needed, the grounds are beautiful and attention to detail is central to everything they do. Larry has a wealth of knowledge on all things Belize and he does a great job helping travellers plan out their stay. This is a family run business that draws on the many talents within the family and surrounding community of Bullet Tree Falls. I can't recommend this place enough. read less			
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Alex Y
3/03/2024

						Thank you to Larry, Mel, Lucy and the rest of the crew for providing an amazing four day stay! If you're looking for a quiet and relaxing base for adventuring in Cayo, I highly recommend Villa Massis. My room had everything I needed, the grounds are beautiful and attention to detail is central to everything they do. Larry has a wealth of knowledge on all things Belize and he does a great job helping travellers plan out their stay. This is a family run business that draws on the many talents within the family and surrounding community of Bullet Tree Falls. I can't recommend this place enough.
					
anthony S
3/03/2024 - Google

				Absolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The... read moreAbsolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The rooms were very clean and nicely decorated. The staff was great. … read less			
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anthony S
3/03/2024

						Absolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The rooms were very clean and nicely decorated. The staff was great. …
					
Lauren Poulin
3/03/2024 - Google

				My husband and I stayed at the Villa Massis for two nights in January. The villa was huge, very clean,... read moreMy husband and I stayed at the Villa Massis for two nights in January. The villa was huge, very clean, well maintained, and had everything you could possibly need. It felt like a home away from home. Mel made some of the best meals we ate in all of Belize… her bread pudding is magical! Larry was incredibly helpful with finding us a way to Tikal when we didn’t want to take a traditional tour. He also gave us plenty of ideas of what we should do in our short timeframe and somehow, it all fit in. We saw much more of the area with his advice than we could have on our own. Whenever we visit San Ignacio, we will stay here. read less			
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Lauren Poulin
3/03/2024

						My husband and I stayed at the Villa Massis for two nights in January. The villa was huge, very clean, well maintained, and had everything you could possibly need. It felt like a home away from home. Mel made some of the best meals we ate in all of Belize… her bread pudding is magical! Larry was incredibly helpful with finding us a way to Tikal when we didn’t want to take a traditional tour. He also gave us plenty of ideas of what we should do in our short timeframe and somehow, it all fit in. We saw much more of the area with his advice than we could have on our own. Whenever we visit San Ignacio, we will stay here.
					
B57OBanthonys
2/28/2024 - TripAdvisor

				Villa Massis. Absolutely Great! Absolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The... read moreAbsolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The rooms were very clean and nicely decorated. The staff was great. Incredible knowledge of area and tours available to best fit your interest. And by the way, the food was outstanding. Can't imagine a better place to stay in the San Ignacio area. read less			
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B57OBanthonys
2/28/2024

						Villa Massis. Absolutely Great! Absolutely wonderful place to stay when exploring western Belize or just to relax in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. The rooms were very clean and nicely decorated. The staff was great. Incredible knowledge of area and tours available to best fit your interest. And by the way, the food was outstanding. Can't imagine a better place to stay in the San Ignacio area.
					
jsm00ve94
2/11/2024 - TripAdvisor

				Hidden gem! Amazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree... read moreAmazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree Falls. The Villa is really its own oasis nestled in the village and the staff is awesome. The room was huge, well thought out, with no detail left out. Bed was very comfy. They make you feel like family here, and are so friendly. We mostly interacted with Larry the owner and his sisters Melanie and Amini. Larry was always down for a good chat and helped us plan our days out to maximize our time in Belize. He can also help you book tours, taxis, etc. I suggest renting a car if you stay here so you can do things at your own pace. The restaurant and bar onsite were also lovely. We ate one dinner in town and regretted it because the food at the villa was so much better. The pricing for food and drink was also extremely reasonable. Ps-you must try the fry jacks for breakfast. I would 100% stay here again if we come back and would recommend this place to a friend over and over. read less			
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jsm00ve94
2/11/2024

						Hidden gem! Amazing spot!! We started our honeymoon trip to Belize here in a quaint area near San Ignacio in Bullet Tree Falls. The Villa is really its own oasis nestled in the village and the staff is awesome. The room was huge, well thought out, with no detail left out. Bed was very comfy. They make you feel like family here, and are so friendly. We mostly interacted with Larry the owner and his sisters Melanie and Amini. Larry was always down for a good chat and helped us plan our days out to maximize our time in Belize. He can also help you book tours, taxis, etc. I suggest renting a car if you stay here so you can do things at your own pace. The restaurant and bar onsite were also lovely. We ate one dinner in town and regretted it because the food at the villa was so much better. The pricing for food and drink was also extremely reasonable. Ps-you must try the fry jacks for breakfast. I would 100% stay here again if we come back and would recommend this place to a friend over and over.
					
italiabella9
1/22/2024 - TripAdvisor

				Secluded retreat We had a great time at Villa Massis on our family vacation last week. The staff is incredibly friendly, welcoming... read moreWe had a great time at Villa Massis on our family vacation last week. The staff is incredibly friendly, welcoming and a wealth of knowledge on all things Belize. We had rented a car so coming and going wasn't an issue, although if you are without a car, it is fairly far away from San Ignacio and restaurants etc. You do have the option for dinner there nightly and they let you know the menu in the morning so you can decide. We had a room on the third floor and it was clean and spacious with access to a kitchen. They also provided filtered water for us. The pool was great too and due to the tree coverage didn't get too much sun so you didn't have to worry about burning (although note that the pool is not heated). We loved our stay and would recommend it to anyone traveling to the San Ignacio area! read less			
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italiabella9
1/22/2024

						Secluded retreat We had a great time at Villa Massis on our family vacation last week. The staff is incredibly friendly, welcoming and a wealth of knowledge on all things Belize. We had rented a car so coming and going wasn't an issue, although if you are without a car, it is fairly far away from San Ignacio and restaurants etc. You do have the option for dinner there nightly and they let you know the menu in the morning so you can decide. We had a room on the third floor and it was clean and spacious with access to a kitchen. They also provided filtered water for us. The pool was great too and due to the tree coverage didn't get too much sun so you didn't have to worry about burning (although note that the pool is not heated). We loved our stay and would recommend it to anyone traveling to the San Ignacio area!
					