There’s something special about ribbon cuttings – they signal not just the opening of a building, but the unveiling of a dream made real. I had the honor of being invited to the grand opening of Aruna Resort and Villas, San Pedro’s newest luxury escape tucked peacefully across the lagoon. And let me tell you: this isn’t just another resort on the island—it’s a statement of grace, vision, and the kind of thoughtful hospitality that elevates our tourism game to new heights.
From the moment I stepped off the boat and onto Aruna Resort’s immaculately designed pier, I felt the care that had gone into every inch of this new oasis. The staff welcomed us with warm smiles and cool tropical drinks – classic Belizean charm with a luxurious twist. Standing under the Belizean sun, surrounded by guests, friends, and industry leaders, we gathered for what felt like more than a celebration. It was a toast to the future of San Pedro.
Marina Kay, our very own San Pedro Town Councilor, spoke passionately on behalf of the Mayor, highlighting just how integral Aruna Resort will be to our community. As someone who lives and breathes San Pedro, it warmed my heart to hear her words: Aruna is more than just a pretty place. It’s a job creator, a community partner, and a platform for locals to shine—from the chefs in the kitchen to the front desk staff offering that first “Welcome to Belize” moment.
Belize Hotel Association President, Reynaldo Malik, followed with powerful words that resonated with every entrepreneur in the audience. He acknowledged the tough road to opening a high-caliber property like this – the long nights, the red tape, the endless decisions. But standing there, surrounded by the elegance of Aruna’s architecture and its natural harmony with the surrounding environment, it was clear: this was a labor of love. Malik also reminded us of the bigger picture, of how important it is that developments like this grow sustainably. It’s not just about opening doors, it’s about making sure they stay open for generations to come.
And then came Malek Smith, owner of Aruna Resort and Villas, delivering a heartfelt speech that truly embodied the soul of the place. He spoke of Aruna—the rising sun—and how the resort is meant to be a sanctuary of fresh starts, connection, and beauty. His words didn’t just come from a business mind, they came from the heart of someone who deeply respects this island, its people, and its promise.
Celebrating Aruna Resort and Villas
After the ribbon was officially cut, we were taken on a tour of the property, and I was blown away. The villas offer luxurious privacy, modern Belizean aesthetics, and views that remind you why people fall in love with this place. The pier stretches out to their waterfront restaurant, Akasha, where the celebration continued with mouthwatering bites, cocktails, and a vibe that felt both upscale and relaxed. You could tell it was designed for those magical evenings under the stars.
More than anything, what I took away from the day was pride – pride in our community, in our resilience, and in the fact that San Pedro continues to evolve with style and substance. Aruna Resort and Villas is a reflection of that evolution. It’s a new chapter in our tourism story, one that respects our roots while embracing a bright and beautiful future. To the team at Aruna: thank you for the invitation, the hospitality, and the inspiration. Here’s to new beginnings and rising suns.
Socializing at Akasha Lounge
