We stayed at Sir Thomas at Toucan after spending a few days at a beach resort. Our hope was to experience more of what Belize had to offer including birding, wildlife watching and just being in a lush "jungle" atmosphere. We were not disappointed! Sir Thomas at Toucan is an absolutely gorgeous setting with lush tropical landscaping. Sabryna and her daughter Felicia were wonderful hosts. There were plants and flowers that I have never seen before even though I been to many tropical destinations. There were also a variety of fruits and other edibles that we've never seen or tasted before. There were Belizean cherries, a different type of plum, a fruit that tasted like roses - very interesting and leaves taken from bushes that was similar to spinach. Our hosts were just wonderful about offering them to us, as a snack or included the delicious home-cooked meals. It was the best food we had on the trip and a welcome change from the "same old, same old" that one seems to get these days no matter how far one travels from home.
We wanted to spend time on the river, and were able to do so both kayaking on our own and also with a young guide who helped us see many animals that we never would have found on our own. He also suggested a nighttime boat ride on the river - it sounded so novel and adventurous that we gave up our planned trip to town to enjoy another yummy dinner "at home" and then a great trip on the river looking for crocodiles (their eyes reflect green when you hit them with the flashlight) and enjoying the beautiful night sky. It was a highlight of our trip.
I don't feel that Sir Thomas Toucan is the right place for all travelers. It is more high-style lodge camping then a hotel. It feels like you are visiting friends, including their menagerie of dogs, and they are very willing to set up trips and outings, but there is not a staff around or pre-organized trips. If there are items you want to have on hand (like wine or beer or forgotten toiletries) you need to bring it yourself or ask them in advance.
But if you are the type who is willing to give up some of the conveniences of resort-style living, so that you can have a more authentic experience of the country and the people who live there, then I think you will find your visit to Sir Thomas to be the most memorable part of your trip, as we did.
PS The birding was just fabulous!
