Belize is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. With its secret beaches, Mayan ruins and incredible snorkeling, Belize's mainland and islands are less-crowded, equally beautiful versions of Caribbean escapes. And now is one of the best times to visit, especially if you're interested in vacationing like Leonardo DiCaprio.
According to a report from The New York Times, DiCaprio plans to "create an eco-conscious resort" on Blackadore Caye, his private island in Belize. The environmentally-conscious actor is partnering with NYC developer Delos on the resort, which will be called "Blackadore Caye, a Restorative Island."
The resort is set to open sometime in 2018 and will feature 68 villas, infinity pools and amenities like special lighting that encourages sleep. The New York Times also reports that Deepak Chopra will "spearhead a program focused on health and anti-aging" at the resort.
That all sounds great, but if you have the urge to visit an eco-friendly resorts, why wait? Here are some of the world's best properties to visit sometime before 2018.
Lapa Ríos Ecolodge & Wildlife Reserve, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Flickr: TeaWithBuzz
Lapa Rios Ecolodge and Wildlife Reserve brings nature and luxury together on 1,000 acres of private nature reserve lush with pristine rainforest. The lodge and 16 private bungalows are strung along a coastal ridge, connected by steps and narrow walkways. Beautiful beaches, rainforest access, sporting activities, massage and yoga classes keep guests returning to the resort for more. The lodge, which has been awarded Costa Rica's highest sustainable tourism award, only employs members of the local community.
Kasbah du Toubkal Ecolodge, Marrakech, Morocco
Flickr: Ian Haskins
Nestled up in the Atlas Mountains,
Kasbah du Toubkal Ecolodge was rated the best mountain retreat in Morocco
by Conde Nast Traveler, and was also a 2012 Fodor's Choice selection. The fort-style hotel is about 40 miles outside Marrakech for nearby sight-seeing. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the mountain, panoramic views, steam baths, and gardens.
Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort & Spa, Chiang Rai, Thailand
Flickr: Eric Bagchus
With no televisions and alarm clocks on the premises, visitors to this tropical Northern Thai mountain oasis can truly get away from it all. Spa treatments use only natural and organic products, and guests can also enjoy yoga classes and vipassana meditation. All visitors stay in private cottages, which include complimentary breakfast and yoga instruction. Staffed fully by local employees, the
family-owned lodge prides itself on its excellent hospitality and emphasis on wellness.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek, Chaa Creek, Belize
Flickr: Adalberto.H.Vega
Belize has become a mecca for geotourism, and
The Lodge at Chaa Creek leads the pack as one of the country's best ecolodges. Visitors enjoy a true rainforest experience at the foot of the Maya Mountains. The resort has been named the Best Eco Resort & Hotel in the Caribbean for four years in a row by
Caribbean Travel & Life. Enjoy a variety of adventure activities, explore the surrounding natural beauty, and unwind at the full-service spa.
El Monte Sagrado, Taos, New Mexico
Flickr: littlemoresunshine
Enjoy the rich Pueblo culture of Taos, New Mexico at one of the only sustainable resorts in the region.
El Monte Sagrado guests can take advantage of the spa, art gallery, and local adventure activities, like hot air ballooning, rafting and skiing. Luxury accommodations, spa and dining also make it a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons.
Milia Mountain Retreat, Crete, Greece
Flickr: Hungrybrowser
This 17th-century mountain settlement, located in a secluded corner of western Crete, is the perfect destination for a secluded, peaceful getaway. The retreat's cottages feature orthopedic-ecological mattresses, fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, gardens and balconies, and hammocks. Guests enjoy eating healthy Cretan cuisine made from local ingredients, and taking long walking tours around their nook of the island.
National Geographic called
Milia Mountain Retreat “a top ecolodge for family, active adventures and local culture.”
Daintree Ecolodge & Spa, Queensland, Australia
Flickr: avlxyz
Guests enjoy a true outdoor experience in treehouse-style lodgings scattered through the Australian rainforest at this
sustainable lodge and spa. With Aboriginal-inspired massages and spa treatments, reef excursions and guided tours of the world's oldest living rainforest, and balconies with private jacuzzis, a stay at Daintree is both luxurious and full of adventure.
Adrere Amellal Oasis Ecolodge, Siwa, Egypt
Bloomberg via Getty Images
The unique experience of
Adrere Amellal includes hand-built desert rooms, a real Egyptian oasis and local, organic cuisine. One
TripAdvisor reviewer described the lodge as "so relaxing you never want to get back to the crowded world." And remote from the crowded world it certainly is: With no electricity at the facility, guests' rooms are lit only by locally-made beeswax candles and the night sky.
