Although Placencia took a direct hit from Hurricane Iris in October 2001 all the businesses mentioned in the text have now reopened, many of them completely rebuilt. The reefs and cayes offshore did sustain damage, however, and you're still likely to see some evidence of this. Many, though by no means all, of the coconut trees which graced the shoreline have gone, but their replacements are growing fast and Placencia is still definitely worth visiting - you'll certainly get a warm welcome from villagers. Shaded by palm trees, cooled by the sea breeze, Placencia is one of the few places on mainland Belize with real beaches, and this, together with the abundant and inexpensive accommodation, makes it a great place to relax. The easiest way to get to Placencia is on one of the regular flights from Belize City (about 45min). Hotels in Placencia |