How One Trip to Belize Turned into a Dream Island Life for This Texas Couple
Editor’s Note: This story appeared on Live and Invest Overseas.
Mandy and Kevin Patterson have spent their entire careers in hospitality in Houston, Texas.
In preparation for Kevin’s 40th birthday in 2013, they began researching a beach destination for the group and landed on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.
Craving an authentic experience rather than an all-inclusive resort or cruise and fueled by a direct, two-hour flight, they felt San Pedro was a perfect fit for their party of 10.
Little did they know that that trip would change their lives.
Dating Belize
Like many, on that visit they were instantly taken by the friendliness of the people, the amazing culture, and the amazing water. They know that their goal will be to move to San Pedro.
They didn’t consider another place — “it was Belize or bust!”
An English-speaking country rich in travel opportunities and only two hours away in case of a family emergency, Ambergris Caye was to be their new home.
Since that first trip, Kevin and Mandy have spent every vacation in Belize, including getting married here in 2015 and hosting a group of 52 people.
Finding a home abroad
When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston in 2017, it triggered their commitment to travel; they rebuilt their flooded house, rented it out, and moved to a rental property in the south of the city in May 2019, with the intention of continuing to work in the tourism industry.
The Pattersons formed a Belizean Organization under which they could operate.
Using their experience in tourism, they plan to consult with resorts and restaurants, bartend, and provide property management services.
Belize does not allow foreigners to work until they obtain permanent resident status, which they can apply for after living in the country for a year.
While the Pattersons wait their turn, they explore the island, meet new friends, and network so they can hit the ground running if they receive permanent residency in 2021.
The Island Hotel is booming
A few years ago, they ran a six-room beachfront resort called Aqua Vista Beachfront Suites, a boutique hotel in Boca Del Rio that offers comfortable studios and suites, complete with star views, private parking, and a walkable area.
The Canadian owners rely on Mandy and Kevin to provide an exceptional guest experience and are always on the lookout for ways to improve the property to gain repeat customers, such as adding kayaks for guest use.
Their hard work paid off.
Aqua Vista was awarded “Top Boutique Hotel” in Belize by the prestigious “America Awards 2024” Travel and Hospitality Awards.
Working in Belize
Mandy specializes in marketing, communications, and customer service. He has worked for high-end brands such as The Crowne Plaza and holds the title of president of the Houston Concierge Association.
At Aqua Vista, she provides concierge services from flight reservations to arranging golf carts and tours to celebrating special events for guests, including her degree in hospitality from the University of Houston.
He also bartends at night in the south of the city, keeping a sense of what is happening on the island and sharing his knowledge with newcomers.
Kevin manages the maintenance of Aqua Vista – being right on the beach, there is always something that needs fixing, fixing, or refreshing.
A material pursuit and a passion project
The Pattersons have one regret about their move abroad: They wish they had bought the property in the 2010s.
As with many islands that are prime for immigration, real estate prices have skyrocketed, boosted by the rise of remote workers and the growth of the temporary rental industry.
They are still keeping their eyes and ears open for a good fit, as their next goal is to own a bar – a great place to meet friends.
Kevin’s passion project is fueled by alcohol. The mad scientist, part entrepreneur, creates his own signature brand of liquor called “KP’s Kreations,” based on the fruits and flavors of the Belizean tropics.
Exploring the island
In 2022, they adopted Pepper, a Schnauzer-mix puppy rescued by a SAGA Humane Association volunteer. He was about two years old at the time, hot, and scared to death. Now that he is in a loving home, Pepper is Mandy’s shadow, thankful for the good life he is living.
On rare days off together (a day every month or two), they take Pepper up north on the island, stopping along the way to play in the water and visit friends at other resorts, go to Secret Beach, or hang out with friends on a boat.
Their advice to first time visitors is to rent a golf cart – even for a few days – to get out and explore the island. There is much to see, do, and experience instead of staying at your resort.
Advice for those moving to Belize
If you’re thinking of moving to Belize, the Pattersons suggest doing more travel first or staying for six months — make sure you can handle the seasons (rainy vs. dry; slow vs. high season).
What do they remember about the US? Family and friends, of course, and many amenities that Americans take for granted.
In addition, they enjoy all aspects of their life in Belize, and you can see their pride when they talk about their home island.
