Kanantik Resort: Jungle Love
by Paris Permenter & John Bigley, Editors of Lovetripper.com

Lions, tigers, and bears.

OK, make that jaguars, whale sharks, and toucans.

For lovers in search of an adventurous getaway, Kanantik Reef and Jungle Resort just might be the place. Located in southern Belize in the South Stann Creek area, this 25-cabana resort is tucked among 300 acres of pristine land inhabited by sleek jaguars as well as gray foxes, agouti, nearby manatee, and countless birds.

Kanantik, which means "to take care" in the Maya Mopan language, is the vision of Italian managing director Roberto Fabbri. Custom designed down to its one-of-a-kind furniture, the resort has spared no effort in creating a unique soft adventure getaway. Surprising touches--from an Italian wood-fired pizza -oven to two-person rock-lined showers--await lovers.

Couples enjoy an all-inclusive plan which includes all meals, local beers and rums, and use of the resort's watersports facilities: Hobie cats, sea kayaks, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Although the hotel boasts a wide beach, it's primarily for lazing away the afternoons with a little sun; the clearest water lies further offshore.

Unlike many all-inclusives, however, Kanantik offers guided tours in its per person price. Head out on a snorkel trip one day, kayak the nearby Sapodilla Lagoon to spot manatees, or hike the world's only jaguar preserve. During the months of April and May, guests might spot whale shark, the world's largest fish weighing up to 27,000 pounds.

Expert guide Agapito Taca also leads guests on a look at the Xunantunich ruins in the Cayo District. Located near the Guatemalan border, these ruins recall the heyday of the Maya civilization with tall temples that once ruled the region.

Evenings at Kanantik are quiet, perfect for star watching or just listening to the waves. Cabanas are largely open air although they offer the option of air conditioning. Beds are tucked beneath mosquito netting to protect from bugs (and the occasional lizard) which find their ways beneath the thatched roof. It's all part of the natural setting which makes Kanantik special.

For more information, see www.kanantik.com.