Ladyville: Belize's Industrial Hub

Ladyville is the largest village in Belize, located eight miles northwest of Belize City in the Belize District. It is considered a suburb of Belize City, with many residents commuting there daily. Ladyville is situated on the north bank of the Belize River, approximately five miles inland from the Caribbean Sea. The village is part of the country's lowland region and is surrounded by marshland, broadleaf forests, and mangrove forests along the coast. It is conveniently located near the Philip Goldson Highway and Philip SW Goldson Airport, making it a great base for exploring the country or travelling to the countryside. Ladyville offers a range of accommodation options, including renting a house, staying in a local hotel, or finding a hostel, all at flexible and affordable prices. The village is also close to important archaeological sites, such as the Maya ruins of Altun Ha, which are over a thousand years older than Belize City and among the most intact in Central America.

Ladyville's location

Ladyville is the largest village in Belize, located eight miles northwest of Belize City in the Belize District. It is considered a suburb of Belize City, with many residents commuting there daily. Ladyville is situated on the north bank of the Belize River, approximately five miles inland from the Caribbean Sea. The village is part of Belize's lowland region and is situated on a natural flood plain. The terrain consists of broadleaf lowland forests, marshlands, creeks, ponds, and mangrove forests along the coast.

The Philip Goldson Highway connects Ladyville to Belize City and cuts through the village. Ladyville is also home to the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, formerly known as The Belize International Airport (BZE). The airport serves as the main gateway to Belize City and the country of Belize. Transportation from the airport to the Philip Goldson Highway is provided exclusively by the Ladyville Airport Taxi Union.

Ladyville is conveniently located beyond the major Northern Highway and is the closest village to the airport. This makes it an ideal base for those who want to explore both the city and the countryside. The village offers a more authentic and affordable experience compared to the resorts, with options such as renting a house, staying in a local hotel, or finding a hostel.

Ladyville is also near important archaeological sites, such as the Maya ruins of Altun Ha, which are over a thousand years older than Belize City and among the most intact in Central America. The village is surrounded by marshland and is close to the coast, providing easy access to various attractions and activities.

Transport options

Ladyville is located eight miles northwest of Belize City and is connected to the city by the Philip Goldson Highway. There are several transport options for getting to and from Ladyville.

Driving

The quickest way to get to Ladyville from Belize City is by car, which takes around 13 minutes for the 8-mile journey.

Shuttle

Shuttle services are also available between Belize City and Ladyville, taking around 16 minutes. Shuttle services in Belize include:

• Belize Airport Shuttle Service (BASS)
• JETS Shuttle Belize
• Belize Exclusive Shuttles
• Shuttle & Taxi Services of Belize
• Ladyville Airport Taxi Services

Walking

It is also possible to walk from Belize City to Ladyville, which is around 8.4 miles.

Bus

Public buses are a common mode of transport in Belize, with many Belizeans relying on them for daily commuting. Buses are usually old Bluebird school buses, which are not very comfortable and not well-equipped for handling luggage, but they are cheap. Air-conditioned buses are used on some express routes.

Ladyville is served by several different bus companies that operate both locally and nationally. Buses from Belize City to Ladyville depart from the Belize City bus terminal, which is located on West Collet Canal. To get to Ladyville from the airport, it is possible to walk or take a taxi to the Philip Goldson Highway and wait for a bus there. When you see a bus approaching, wave your arm up and down to signal it to stop. The fare to Belize City is BZ$1-2, and the bus will terminate at the bus terminal, where you can change to another bus to your final destination.

Water Taxi

Water taxis are another transport option in Belize, providing transportation across the water. Water taxi trips may be cancelled in rough sea conditions.

Air

Belize has two domestic airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, which operate flights from Belize City to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.

Attractions and activities

Ladyville is a convenient base for exploring Belize, with easy access to the Northern Highway and Philip SW Goldson Airport. It is also close to several important archaeological sites, including the Maya ruins of Altun Ha, which are among the most intact in Central America.

Ladyville itself is not a tourist hotspot, but it does offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in and around Ladyville:

• Explore the ACES Educational Crocodile Eco-Sanctuary, which is also home to a shrimp farm and crocodile rehabilitation program.
• Take a tour with A Plus Adventures Belize, which offers city tours, zip-lining, and aerial adventure parks.
• Visit the Belize Maya Ruins, including Altun Ha, for a glimpse into the country's rich heritage.
• Enjoy a day of snorkelling at Coral Garden Shark and Sting Ray Alley.
• Experience the Big Rock Waterfalls and Mayan Culture with a 9-hour tour that includes a visit to the Mayan site of Xunantunich.
• Take a Lamanai and the New River Safari tour, which includes a 9-hour river safari and a visit to the Lamanai Mayan site.
• Go cave tubing at Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve or cave kayaking at Caves Branch.
• Try zip-lining and river tubing at Chukka White River.
• Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, a popular spot for snorkelling and fishing.
• Visit Bacab Eco Park, a popular attraction in Ladyville.

Ladyville also offers a range of dining options, including Captain Hooks, a highly-rated seafood restaurant, and the Caribbean Shrimp Company, which offers fresh shrimp dishes and a full bar.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options in and near Ladyville, Belize, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals.

Hotels

Those seeking a hotel in Ladyville can consider the following options:

• The BNB on Triggerfish – located close to the airport, it offers a garden, darts, free private parking, and free WiFi.
• Fort George Hotel and Spa – a new hotel in the historic Fort George neighbourhood of Belize City, offering modern and clean rooms.
• Ramada by Wyndham Princess Belize City – features an outdoor pool, a spa, and a wellness centre.
• Golden Bay Belize Hotel – located in Belize City, it features a bar and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• Harbour View Boutique Hotel & Yoga Retreat – situated in Belize City, it offers an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and air-conditioned rooms with pool views.
• Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza – this modern hotel in Belize City provides a fitness centre, an outdoor pool, and rooms with free WiFi and cable TV.

Vacation Rentals

For those seeking a more unique or homely stay, vacation rentals in and near Ladyville are available on platforms such as Airbnb. Here are some popular options:

• Blease Villa Suites – located just 15 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from Belize City, these spacious and affordable suites offer a range of amenities, including kitchenettes, queen-size beds, WiFi, and free secure parking.
• Tuquil-HA – a tranquil retreat just five minutes from Belize's international airport, offering a perfect balance of convenience and serenity.
• Cozy & Modern Vacation Studio – located in a safe area of Belize City, just 15 minutes from the airport, this studio features air conditioning, WiFi, a smart TV, an equipped kitchen, and a cozy patio.
• Turtleback Hideaway – a newly constructed set of three contemporary villas on Caye Caulker, within walking distance to town and the ocean.
• Cozy Corner Studio – a warm and welcoming studio apartment just five minutes from the international airport, offering free drop-offs to the airport and a daily public shuttle to Belize City.

Food and drink

Ladyville, Belize, offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining experiences, with a diverse range of cuisines represented. Here is an overview of some of the top restaurants and culinary experiences in the area:

Celebrity Restaurant

Celebrity Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Ladyville, known for its reasonable prices and elegant yet cozy atmosphere. It has been hailed as one of the most romantic restaurants in Belize, while also accommodating business lunches and dinner gatherings. The menu features a vast assortment of fresh seafood, grilled meats, poultry, pastas, and exquisite desserts. House specialties include whole baked, grilled, or fried snapper, Lobster Hollandaise, Chicken Mozzarella, and BBQ specials. The restaurant also offers vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Captain Hook's Shrimp Restaurant & Bar

Captain Hook's is a highly-regarded restaurant in Ladyville, known for its shrimp dishes and beautiful views of the Belize River. The restaurant is located on a shrimp farm, ensuring that guests enjoy the freshest shrimp available. In addition to shrimp, the menu offers a variety of other options, including Caribbean and seafood specialties. The restaurant also features outdoor seating, a full bar, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Manatee Lookout Restaurant and Bar

This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Belize River. The menu features Lebanese cuisine, along with a variety of drinks and tasty food options. It is a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal and take in the surroundings.

Spoonaz Photo Cafe

Spoonaz Photo Cafe is a charming cafe located in Belize City. It offers a convenient location, delicious food, and a wonderful deck to relax on while enjoying your meal.

Black Orchid Restaurant

The Black Orchid Restaurant is known for its amazing views and delicious food. It serves American and Caribbean cuisine and is located in Burrell Boom, Belize. The restaurant offers outdoor and indoor dining, with varied menu options and excellent service.

Friendship Chinese Restaurant

Friendship Chinese Restaurant is a long-standing establishment in Belize City, having been in operation since 1974. It offers a variety of Chinese dishes, including house lo mein, wonton soup, and almond-encrusted shrimp. The restaurant provides a pleasant dining experience with friendly service.

In addition to these notable restaurants, Ladyville and the surrounding areas offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, including Caribbean, Central American, Lebanese, Indian, and Japanese cuisine. Whether you're looking for fine dining, casual eateries, or takeout options, Ladyville has something to offer everyone's taste and budget.

Frequently asked questions