What do Bill Gates, Francis Ford Coppola, and Leonardo DiCaprio all have in common apart from their wealth and celebrity? They’ve all made the decision to invest in Belize real estate — and it’s a choice that many celebrities are making. “It was like heaven on earth,” said DiCaprio about his visit to Belize, “and almost immediately, I found this opportunity to purchase an island there.”
And while Gates bought a Belizean island as his private tropical retreat, both Coppola and DiCaprio recognize the value of showing other people the beauty this Caribbean country has to offer. Coppola is the owner of two resorts — the Turtle Inn and Blacaneux — while DiCaprio is in the process of turning his own private island into a resort. And with over 400 islands off of the coast of Belize, there’s plenty of opportunity for growth.
In fact, it’s long been believed that the island that Madonna was referencing in her classic song “La Isla Bonita” is the Belizean island of Ambergris Caye. And it’s long been regarded as a place where even the average person gets the red carpet treatment normally reserved exclusively for celebrities. English is the national language throughout the country, and the people are known for being hospitable. Additionally, the exchange rate is favorable to Americans and other westerners, so you don’t need to spend a small fortune to feel pampered.
The fact that it’s a relatively short drive from the United States makes it a point of obvious appeal for Hollywood celebrities and to the average person, but there’s also something special about the tropical beauty of Belize. The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest of its kind in the world, and the people of Belize are committed to keeping it that way. Hollywood stars Rashida Jones, Angela Kinsey, and Cobie Smulders have committed to actively participating in the preservation of the barrier reef — and maintaining sustainability has been a high priority for the government as well. That would certainly be a solid selling point for noted philanthropist and environmentalist DiCaprio.
The best thing is that the market is accessible even for people who wouldn’t remotely be considered a celebrity — and there are opportunities ranging from private islands to beach resorts to comfortable bungalows in the wild interior Cayo District. If you’re considering investing, get in while the market is transparent — and get the guidance you deserve with Hesed Realty Ltd.
