Lydia’s Guesthouse is a charming homestay located in peaceful Placencia.

The property offers guests a range of room options, from private rooms with shared communal spaces to full private cottages.

Yello spoke to Lydia about how the guesthouse got started, what guests can expect from their stay, and why Placencia is an attractive place to visit.

How did the guesthouse get started?

It was always in this location since 1987. It started at the bottom of my house, with four rooms and one bathroom. After about two to three years, we signed up with the Belize Tourism Board.  My son and my husband worked as fishermen, so when they got the rebate, we put the money into the guesthouse. My husband named it Lydia’s Guesthouse.

What do you think people like about the guesthouse?

Ever since we got started, we’ve had lots of business with the European market; we have German people, Dutch people stay.

People like the homestay and that we are right here. If they need anything, we can always help them out.

How do visitors usually find out about you?
These days, we get a lot of millennials who book ahead of time online.

Before, people used to walk the sidewalks or be dropped off by the boat and walk in to ask for a room. People had guidebooks to find you; now, we only have pre-bookings.

What kind of rooms are available?

The guesthouse is six private rooms with two and a half shared baths. There is also a small shared kitchenette for guests to prepare meals.

We also have four complete houses, with private baths, kitchens and living spaces.

What do you enjoy about running this hotel?

After so long, I still enjoy meeting new people. It’s a way of living for me, and I enjoy doing it. When I don’t have it to do, I feel like something is missing. My niece and daughter also help me to run the property, so it’s a family affair.

What attracts people to Placencia?

All the visitors I talk to tell me that the beach, friendly people and homestays are enjoyable. This area is quiet, so they get a good night’s sleep after going out to the bars.

They also like fishing and the cays too.

To learn more about the guesthouse or book a stay, visit the Lydia’s Guesthouse website.