Having been to the area many times before, I had an idea of what to expect. But Arturo and Maria (and their children) exceeded any expectations I had. They are a well known, and respected family in San Igancio and Santa Elena. They were wonderfully hospitable, helping me in anyway they could. They even lent me their bike and a Belize phone (I have lots of friends in town) for the two weeks I was there.

I was in Cayo to do some research, yet the scheduled days of collecting data went from 7 to 2. During the other days, I stayed at the house, worked on some paper, did some research, and got to know the family. They welcomed me into their home as if I were another child.

Every morning, Arturo made me more breakfast than I could eat, and I routinely told him not so much fruit. I bought some eggs and bacon for the week to feed myself, but he still insisted on cooking it for me. I was also invited to have a few lunches with the family on Sundays. It was great to be included.

The room is HUGE with a kingsize bed, a hammock, some furniture for you stuff, and your own bathroom. It was more than enough space. Even though there is no AC (as with most of Belize) the fan was great at night to keep you cool.

If you are on the fence about this spot because it is in Santa Elena, go for it. Its a short walk over the light metal bridge at night and over the wooden bridge during the day. Renting this room not only give you a place to stay, but allows you the opportunity to get to know an exceptional Belizean family. Next time I am in town, I will be staying with the Matus family again.