Bella's Backpackers Hostel

There were a few things I liked: the kitchen is really well equipped with an oven, microwave, kettle, and rice cooker. There are hammocks all over the property, and I could sit in the bar area without ordering anything. The outdoor space is open and nice, and the staff were friendly, though a bit distant. But I didn't feel comfortable here and wouldn't stay again. The 11 dorm beds connect in different ways, with no proper separation or doors. Curtains between beds would make a big difference. The fridge is far too small for the number of guests, an issue that's been mentioned before without any improvement. WiFi barely works with so many people connected. Downstairs there are 3 cold showers and only 2 warm ones, and there are no towels or cloths in the kitchen for cleaning up. Activities were poorly organized. We wanted to join the pub crawl, but one flyer said 8:30 and another board, already removed by 7pm, said 9pm. Nobody knew when or where to meet. A simple WhatsApp group like other hostels use would help. A lot of the printed information is outdated too, including the massage offers. Laundry costs 15, 25, or 35 Belizean Dollars depending on the size. Sunday Funday is advertised heavily, and with rumors that it sells out quickly, lots of people book online. Booking directly at reception and giving your room number is much cheaper. You don't have to stay here to take part, since the island is small enough to join from elsewhere, and direct access from the hostel is closed anyway. They enforce quiet hours by turning off the music, but guests keep talking, and the building is so noisy that it's still loud. The bar next door often plays music louder than the hostel. The kitchen and hammocks were nice, but I wouldn't recommend staying here.

Bella’s backpackers has such a great location, and we loved the unique experience and the people we met there. We wanted to extend our stay but it was full. Be sure to book ahead to get a spot. We can't wait to come back!

The staff were really nice, and there was a good atmosphere with activities throughout the week. The private rooms felt too small for the high prices, though, with just a bed and nothing else. They shouldn't show every guest the codes for locking all kinds of rooms. People were allowed to photograph them without proper control of what they actually needed, so the codes could end up with all the guests or people coming to reception. The general luggage locker room was also always left open.

The boat trip out to float in the ocean for sunset was absolutely beautiful, and my daughter and I had a blast taking part in the no-hands watermelon eating challenge. There were also volleyball, beer pong, and Jenga games, plus a great DJ keeping the music going all day. We came for Sunday Funday, which starts at 2 PM, though people arrived at different times. Rum punch and shots were constantly available at the bar, which was a great perk. The staff were energetic and fun, and the crowd was a blast to hang out with. Such a lively way to end the week, definitely recommend it if that's what you're after!