My boyfriend and I are trying to decide where to stay in May. This is our first trip to Belize. We have narrowed our choices down to Banana Beach Resort or Blue Tang Inn. We are looking for a place close to town with a beach to lounge on and swim. We would like an ocean front room. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks!

Both are very nice but Blue Tang is much closer to town.

Any other suggestions? I am not commited to either of these properties. I would however like to have a fridge in the room.

Take a look at Aqua Marina Suites. We didn't stay there but looked at them the last time we were down and they look very nice. All oceanfront, I believe. Nice pool with bar and right on the beach, in town, close to everything. I take a crowd so their one-bedroom suites are too small for us but, if the wife and I were going alone, I'd make them a definite try.

We have stayed at Banana Beach (and will this time, too) and really like it. Very nice rooms, great staff and facility. Rent a cart for the week and go whenever, wherever. Or just use the bicycles. You won't want to walk to town from there.

We've also stayed at Xanandu--very nice, a little closer to town than Banana Beach and a wonderful staff, great pool and nice beachfront. Free bikes. Pretty quiet, definitely not a party place but beautiful grounds and setting.

We stayed at BB last year and as everyone said great staff/rooms/and service but opted to stay in town this year at paradise villas. We did walk almost every night to and from town and had a blast hope you do too!!

Check out The Palms. They have great package specials starting in May. http://belizepalms.com/packages.html Condo units, all beachfront,in town,with a pool. Right next to Ramon's beautiful beach. We are staying there this August. (Have not stayed there before but have heard great things about it) Have a great time no matter where you choose to stay. mobunny

Blue Tang.

DoubleE: We, too, are going in May & planning to stay at Paradise Villa. Wondering how the snorkeling is off their pier & did you try the night snorkeling at Wet Willies's pier? Did you have access to a bbq gill at the villa? Oh, questions, questions! All help appreciated.

We stayed at Blue Tang last June and had a wonderful time. No complaints at all. Next month we're staying at Belizean Reef. Other end of town, but still walking distance to everything. No pool at Belizean Reef though, if that's an issue. It's right next door to The Palms and at this time of year $30-40.00 per night cheaper.

I am now seriously considering The Palms. They do have a great deal in May. Has anyone stayed there? Is it a good location (close to town, restaurants, nightlife?)