If you are looking to get away from the resorts and want a truly wonderful, 100% Belizean stay, the Macaroni Hill View Hotel is for you. The hotel itself is the home that RJ and his family loved in growing up - but it has been expanded to include more rooms and an incredible, two story rooftop area for the bar and restaurant. While I was there, it was raining pretty much the entire time, but it was nice sitting up on the roof, taking in the amazing views and watching all the birds and wildlife. Since the family is local, they know a ton of history and facts about the area and Belize in general and can hook up some great tours. I went zip lining in Bocawina (in the pouring rain!) when I was there and it was AWESOME. Again, this is not the right hotel for someone looking for the luxury resort side of Belize, but if you want a real local taste and some awesome natural beauty around you, you shouldn't think twice. My stay at Macaroni Hill View Hotel was sandwiched between staying at two 4 and 5 star resorts and it was absolutely the highlight of my trip.