Belize Travel Review: Ranguana Caye, Tour of Monkey River, Family Birthday Vacation, Snorkeling, Beauty & Relaxation

Where do I start?  We started our week in Belize with a 14 passenger, single prop plane ride from Belize City to Placencia, which was a trip, especially for our 9 and 11 yo boys.  We then headed to the island resort on Hatchet Caye.  This place is a gem!!  It was THE most relaxing place with THE most genuine, and kind staff.  Every single person who was working on the island when we were there could not have felt more like family.  There were only about 12 other people staying there, as well so that was amazing.  Our cabana was sooo spacious and quiet.  The food was amazing too (especially the desserts).  My only criticism is that it would have been great to have a little cafe-style breakfast for those of us who like a lighter breakfast.  But that is just me, I don't like a big plate of eggs or pancakes, just a simple coffee and muffin or some oatmeal.  My kids loved the breakfast :)
We then went on for 4 nights in Placencia and stayed at the beautiful villas hotel.  Again, the staff was amazing.  The two ladies were so kind and sweet.  There was a washer and dryer in our unit, which was paramount.   The beds and pillows were the most comfortable I think I have had in a rental (bed frame a bit too squeaky though), fully stocked kitchen, and perfect for a family. We took a day trip for my 50th birthday to Ranguana Caye, and wow, what a special place!  Again, the staff was amazing.  We were taken out to snorkel around the island by one of the staff, who was so patient with our kids.  We had a delicious lunch, followed by a homemade birthday cake.  What a nice surprise!!  When it was announced that it was time to depart back to Placencia, we nearly cried.  
Another special thing that we did was the Monkey River tour with a local guide.  He was a trip!  He took us around his village after the jungle/mangrove tour and he was so proud to show us around.  And his lovely family made us lunch :)
Overall everything was enjoyable.  The food, the people, the accommodations.  Even getting our Covid tests for returning to the US could not have been easier.