We hear the same comment about once a week “We are looking for an unspoiled getaway. We want the Caribbean and Mexico as it was before the high-rises and all-inclusive resorts dotted the landscape. We want the unique yet with all the luxuries intact.” We suggest a few opportunities “south of the border….of Mexico”.

As the chill sets in and we prepare for Christmas, our neighbors in Central America are offering many opportunities to escape the snow and cold. From a resort in Belize accessible by boat to an estate in Panama to a flat in Costa Rica, we have options from the Caribbean to the Pacific available through the winter season. Even if you missed the booking window for Christmas, it’s going to be a long winter (which by the way officially began on Monday, Dec. 21st) so do not delay because as we enter the ice-box up north, in Central America, it’s just heating up.

For many in the United States, Panama is probably best known for its famous Panama Canal and secondarily, Panama Hats. Yet this somewhat undiscovered paradise is perfect for the vacation guest who reminisces about the Caribbean and Mexico of yesteryear. A time when beaches were places of solitude, the “catch of the day” was literally the catch of the hour, where dining could range from “proper dress” to t-shirt and shorts all within walking distance of each other.

The Society is proud to offer an oceanfront Villa located at the Las Olas Villas at Playa La Barqueta. This 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom custom villa provides guests with the ultimate oceanfront experience, a base for a vacation which can be as exciting or as sedentary as one desires.

When one enters the gated community and arrives at Villa the entry is stately and impressive from the stucco exterior and tile roof to the beautiful double door entry. Once inside the home continues to impress. The main living and entertaining areas are expansive and comfortable with native stone floors, typical in tropical environments and ceiling fans supplementing the central a/c circulating the air for maximum comfort.

The bedrooms will sleep 8 in comfort and luxury, all providing unobstructed ocean views. The private first floor master suite features a king-size bed, a sitting area and direct access to the rear pool deck. There are “his and hers” walk-in closets. The master bath has 2 sinks, a large jetted soaking tub and walk in shower built for 2. Ocean views dominate from all the windows.

The second floor junior master suite has a king-size bed and an attached full bath with a walk-in shower, ocean view included. The third and fourth bedrooms feature a queen- sized bed and a walkout to a second floor covered balcony with a table for 4, perfect for morning coffee and a cocktail in privacy.

At the home, guests can enjoy the expansive pool and patio areas with dedicated sections for sun-bathing and shade. While the gourmet kitchen inside will impress, the outdoor gas grill and al fresco dining will be a favorite morning, noon and night. Of course, with private access to the black coral sand beach, we suggest slipping away and enjoying the ocean waters and then relaxing on your private hammock, no need to reserve beach chairs at your private luxury beachfront villa.

We received such positive feedback concerning The Las Terrazas Resort in Belize, the ownership requested TheSociety.com share the following lodging special, Thanksgiving and Beyond in Paradise with our readership:

• STAY 3 - GET 4th NIGHT FREE!
  RATES STARTING @ $74 PER NIGHT PER PERSON

based on double occupancy
valid for stays up to December 18, 2009

For those who may not be familiar with Las Terrazas and Belize: Visitors enjoy spectacular natural attractions and the excitement of discovering Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret. Travelers from around the globe are drawn to Belize for the relaxing and the richly rewarding authenticity they seek in a genuine Caribbean getaway.  Nestled between Mexico and Guatemala on the Caribbean coast of Central America, Belize is one of the few remaining unspoiled places on earth. We invite you to stay at Las Terrazas Resort while discovering the magical relaxation of Belize.

Lodging opportunities include one (1), two (2) and three (3) bedroom town homes * central A/C * full size kitchens * 2 flat screen TVs per unit * DVD player & Ipod docking station * O Restaurant serving Central American and International cuisine *  room service * 70′ infinity lap pool * pool side bar *  Serenity Spa and Wellness Center * PADI 5-star dive shop * free high speed internet * use of kayaks & Hobie Cats * bicycle and golf cart rental * on-site concierge to assist with island and mainland activities * largest private beachfront on the island and more …Be sure to ask about Thanksgiving Dinner at O Restaurant