Fodor's Expert Review Alaia Belize

Six high-rise towers dwarf the island's townscape at this condo complex by Marriott Autograph Collection, which features an exclusive beach club, gorgeous design, and a swanky but closed-off air that might make you forget you're in Belize altogether. There is so much to do at Alaia that, in theory, you don't even need to leave: several restaurants serve food ranging from sushi to pizza, the bars serve mixologist cocktails (at twice the normal price), and the pools are made for all-day lounging and selfie-taking. You can even reserve a poolside pergola for a cool BZ$150–BZ$350 a day. Such costs make Alaia feel a little nickel-and-dimey, but for many guests Marriott Bonvoy points decrease the hotel's sticker price. The huge apartments are all stunningly tiled in limestone travertine, and most have balcony living rooms. A major shortcoming is that the grounds are all but bald of trees or foliage. Just next to the tower development is the more human-scaled Reef House (formerly Banyan Bay), whose grounds have winding paths and mature vegetation. These family-friendly apartments feature interiors, designed by Débora Aguilar, which evoke the sandy environment. For what it's worth, Alaia has Belize's only suspended rooftop pool, so you can peer a dizzying six stories down through glass in the pool's floor. Note that the party atmosphere here can make Alaia feel like an upscale spring break scene.