Belize Travel Agent Expert

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marian wattel, Travel Agent in Stockton, CA

marian wattel

Stockton, CA Travel Agent
Super Agent

marian wattel

Stockton, CA · 25+ Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
5.0
(33)
100% Recommended
Marian is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She also thinks of things I never would. Which is way you would use a travel agent. Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Belize, Belize City, Ambergris Caye, Corozal, San Pedro

Interests:

Scuba, Beach Vacations, Couples & Romance, Hiking & Backpacking, Water Sports

About Me

Sunset in Belize
Sunset in Belize

Belize, a small but diverse country in Central America, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture. From the lush rainforests and ancient Mayan ruins to the world-class diving in the Belize Barrier Reef, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone.Day 1: Arrival in Belize CityFly into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City, the main gateway to the country. After arriving, take some time to explore the city’s colonial architecture and visit the Belize Museum to learn about the country’s history. For a casual start, stroll along the Swing Bridge, the world’s only manually operated bridge, or take a boat ride along the coast.Day 2: Snorkeling and Diving at the Belize Barrier ReefOn your second day, head to Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, two popular islands known for their proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Take a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the vibrant underwater world filled with colorful corals, tropical fish, and marine life like rays and sea turtles. Don’t miss the famous Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where you can swim with nurse sharks and stingrays in crystal-clear waters.If you’re an experienced diver, consider visiting the Great Blue Hole, one of the most famous dive sites in the world. This massive underwater sinkhole offers a unique diving experience with stunning geological formations.Day 3: Exploring Ancient Mayan RuinsTake a day trip to some of Belize’s incredible Mayan ruins. Altun Ha, just an hour from Belize City, is a well-preserved site where you can climb ancient pyramids and learn about the Mayan civilization. If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, visit Xunantunich, near the Guatemalan border. Here, you can explore the towering El Castillo pyramid and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.Another must-visit is Caracol, the largest Mayan site in Belize, located deep in the Chiquibul Forest. It’s a more remote destination, but the grandeur of the ruins and the wildlife you’ll see along the way make it worthwhile.Day 4: Jungle Adventures and WildlifeBelize’s rainforests are teeming with wildlife, and there’s no better way to experience it than by venturing into the jungle. Visit the Belize Zoo, where you can see native species like jaguars, tapirs, and toucans in a natural setting. For a more active experience, take a guided tour of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jaguars and numerous bird species.Adventurers can try cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, where you’ll float down an underground river through ancient cave systems. Alternatively, explore the incredible ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal), a sacred Mayan site filled with artifacts, skeletons, and awe-inspiring cave formations.Day 5: Relax on the BeachAfter several days of exploring, take some time to relax on Belize’s pristine beaches. Placencia is a laid-back village known for its long stretches of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. You can simply unwind, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the tropical atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for more adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby mangroves.Tips for Visiting BelizeBest Time to Visit: The dry season, from November to April, is ideal for outdoor activities.Currency: Belize uses the Belizean dollar, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.Language: English is the official language, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors.Belize offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a fantastic destination for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in nature while exploring ancient history.        

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
33 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 33 reviews

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Reviewed By Rob - Los Angeles, California | Traveled to Barcelona ~ Spain ~ Europe
Marian is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She also thinks of things I never would. Which is way you would use a travel agent.
marian wattel responded
"Thank you, Robert. It has been delightful organizing your adventure in Barcelona. Planning this adventure has helped me learn about the many cultural offerings available. Eager to hear about the trip and see your pictures. Mew"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
9 of 11 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
The most unbelievable trip!
Reviewed By Nelson James - San Jose California | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
Anything less than amazing would be an understatement without Marian my trip wouldn’t have been as productive and organized. With Marian’s help I got to see the most stunning places of Italy. Marian was so easy to work with and was very flexible with time there wasn’t a moment she wasn’t available seriously. I am so grateful that I got to work with Marian and I will not go anywhere else for a travel agent!
marian wattel responded
"Thank you Nelson! It was such a pleasure working with you. Thank you for keeping in touch with me throughout your adventure. It was fun to experience your enjoyment of Italy and travel. Looking forward to working with you in the future. Marian, The Optimistic Tourist"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
7 of 10 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Spectacular Family Cruise
Reviewed By JT - California | Traveled to Caribbean Sea ~ At Sea ~ At Sea
Marian made our travel arrangements to take our children on a Caribbean cruise. She picked the correct ship for our 3 children and us. When we needed a little adult time, there were clubs for the children to attend. We are adventuresome, and that was the vibe of our ship. Bravo, Marian, for assessing our needs and matching us up so well.
marian wattel responded
"Thank you for the opportunity to assist in making your family adventure a success. I really knew we had a fit but needed to have a work through. You made my hunch become a reality. I know there will be other family adventures to follow. "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
8 of 12 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Biggest Trip in Retirement
Reviewed By David & Carla - Stockton, CA | Traveled to Italy ~ Europe
My wife and I are currently having the pleasure of working with Marian on our upcoming two week trip to Italy. We have found that Marian is resourceful, knowledgeable and timely in answering any questions we have. Marian gave us a beginning itinerary and has worked with us to adjust and change it to meet our goals. Her recommendations and expertise has made this process simple and smooth.
marian wattel responded
"Thank you David and Carla. I know you will thoroughly enjoy you Italian adventure. Please send a picture of you in Cinque Terre. Looking forward to assisting with the next trip. Mew"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Held my hand throughout.
Reviewed By Lynne - Winters, CA | Traveled to Tunisia ~ Africa
Marian did the impossible - she got a flight that met up with my Australian girlfriend in Frankfurt so we could arrive together. She also kept me calm when not one, but two flights were missed and guided me through the steps to get back on track. Her fee is ridiculously low for the service she supplies. I will use her once again as I have in the past.
marian wattel responded
"Lynne, It is always a pleasure working with you. So glad you are back home, safe, and with a smile in your voice. Mew"
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
3 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

Certifications & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world. Go with the pros.
Trusted Travel Advisor: A Trusted Travel Advisor credentials, resources and global connections translates to today’s consumer in respectful interactions, confidentiality, knowledge, and client advocacy of travel services provided in parallel with building long lasting client relationships that builds with each interaction.  A Trusted Travel Advisor knows their client better than the client may know themselves and puts those polishing touches on each travel collaboration.

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

Client Testimonials

Our Bespoke Italian Adventure
it was a wonderful trip -- Pompeii, Herculaneum, Agrigento, and enough museums to satisfy even us. All the drivers were terrific. Teo, who drove us from Siracusa to Palermo and was more than up to the task. He tried two or possibly three ways to get us to Piazza Armerina, but it wasn't possible because the roads were washed out, so we went on to Agrigento, where he set us up for the easiest way to see as much as possible. It was spectacular. He explained to us that merely to drive to the two stops on the way to Palermo would take more than the allotted 8 hours. The various map programs say it can be done with the stops, but real world conditions make it impossible. Admittedly we had really bad weather and horrific traffic, but who gets ideal conditions? The Valley of the Temples is spectacular, but it might better be a separate trip or an overnight, especially for older people. Again, thank you for all your help. Stay healthy! All the best, E and J
e & j F. Alameda, CA
Trains, Boats, and Planes Adventure Abounds
Thank you, Marian, for our diverse, detailed adventure. Having us meet fellow cruisers prior to the cruise was brilliant. We are particularly grateful for the door to door care. Our fears of not getting to the right place were eased when we saw our greeter and our names on his sign. The Glacier Express and our stay in Zermet far exceeded our expectations. We loved arriving in San Moritz and staying in our castle-like hotel. The Bernina Express was more great scenery and so uplifting. Enjoyed exploring the Milan train station completing our loop. Flying to Edinburgh, exploring the castles, streets, and lunching on the royal yacht made our short stay fly by. The train to London was a peaceful, pleasant end to our side adventure and way to ease into our week's stay in London. At King's Cross station our greeter whisked off to our lodgings via a real London taxi. Loved the theaters, royal mews, and Keys ceremony. So much to see; so little time.
L.W.
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