A Private Island

It’s the ultimate luxury goal – so incredible it barely seems possible. Cayo Espanto is a private island resort off the coast of Belize and it’s a living dream, enveloped by blue water and offering five-star service. Whether you need a serene beach escape, are looking for the perfect romantic honeymoon destination or want to check “living on a private island” off your bucket list, Cayo Espanto delivers. Everyone needs to spend a week somewhere where shoes are not needed or expected.

Naturally, my favourite way to refresh on the island was the luxurious spa treatments. Cayo Espanto offers massage, manis and pedis, facials, body scrubs, aromatherapy and more, and staff brings the spa right to your villa. One day when my husband was fishing all day, I decided to spend the entire day at my villa with multiple spa treatments. The Spa Manager, Esmeralda, and therapist, Erica, recommended I try the “chocolate spa treatment.” It only took me one moment to agree with them; they had already anticipated my needs so well, I knew they would recommend the right experience for me. And right it was. I am so thankful they brought to my attention a remarkable indulgent spa treatment that centred around local, indigenous chocolate. The treatment included a Mayan coffee scrub and cocoa wrap. It started with an exotic blend of coffees from the Mayan mountains in Belize. The invigorating aromas of coffee and chocolate awakened my senses while freshly ground coffee exfoliated my skin. Following that, my body was cocooned in raw cocoa which helps slow down the natural aging process, while creating a natural radiance and healthy glow.

Just writing about Cayo Espanto is nearly bringing me to tears — tears of happiness, since it was such an amazing trip, and tears of nostalgia that I am not still there. Confession: I shed a few tears when I left. A private island has to be the most magnificent way to live.