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A Belizean Christmas Story

with Andrea West

A Belizean Christmas Story with Andrea west

Join us at The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant for A Belizean Christmas Story with Andrea West, founder of “Storytime 4 Adults”. Andrea will bring her short story “Krismos Dina/Christmas Dinner” to life with an engaging, interactive reading. It’s a heartwarming tale of belonging, friendship, and the power of kindness and hospitality. So, grab a seat, get cozy, and let’s share in the magic of the season together.

About Andrea

Andrea N. West, The Storytelling Ambassador from Belize, is an award-winning writer dedicated to creating safe, engaging spaces through her stories, with works published in outlets like Bent Pin Press and the Commonwealth Foundation’s adda; she is the founder of Storytime 4 Adults and currently works in college admissions, blending her love for storytelling with her commitment to guiding students, all while raising her son, Ramon, with her husband, Raul.

Storytime 4 Adults Experience:
  • Interactive Reading
  • November 29, 2024, at 7:00 PM
  • The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant
  • Price: USD 30 (includes complimentary drink)
Agenda
  • Cultural Icebreaker
  • Welcome & Start of Reading
  • Q&A and Facilitated Discussion
  • Meet the Author and Storyteller
Register Now

Send an email to reservations@thebelizecollection.com or call (501) 822 – 3851 to RSVP.

luminary tales by the belize collection - sign up form

Every storyteller is different and we want to know more about you so that we can create a personalized relationship with you. Please fill out our form and be as detailed as possible. All applications will be reviewed and vetted. We are eager to work with Luminaries based on their creativity and quality of work.

A close up view of the sleeping giant sculpture at The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant

Qawa Ki'ché

artist: Marcelo Patiño & Gabriella Giusti

Qawa Ki’ché is Qʼeqchiʼ Maya and translates to God of the Jungle. This is the artists’ attempt at capturing and preserving the spirit of the iconic Sleeping Giant that The Rainforest Lodge is known for. The Maya giant is a nod to the Maya Mountains the lodge is nestled in and its surrounding communities. Ancient, revered, and adorned in jewelry, he sleeps peacefully in the jungle he created and protects.

A wooden sculpture of woman holding a toucan in the forest at The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant

las tres marias

artist: Lucia Meyers

Sculpted with a chainsaw, this piece is dedicated to womanhood and freedom. Las Tres Marias consists of 3 women sculpted out of purple heart wood. Each represents a phase of womanhood. The symbol of freedom forms part of two of the sculptures in the form of Pajaritos Que Vuelan which translates to Birds Who Fly. Ultimately, this piece may be interpreted as an individual woman achieving independence or the feminist movement acting as a catalyst for all women.

An aerial view the sculpture "El Garrobo" at the Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant

ah puka'an garrobo

artist: diego haretche

Ah Puka’An Garrobo directly translates iguana below the ground. The largest installation from the 2023 Artist in Residence program, this piece represents the spikes on the iguana’s back. Inspiration was also drawn from imagery in the poetic and beloved story The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Register Here

jungle unwind

massage

Aromatherapy

$75

Benefits include increased circulation, improved flexibility, and purging toxins from the muscles. 60 minutes

Deep Tissue

$80

This therapeutic massage is ideal for those who suffer from old injuries or chronic pain. 60 minutes

algae

$75

Restores elasticity and revitalizes the skin. Relieves stress, and purges toxins while increasing circulation.

nails

spa manicure

$35

Hands are soaked and exfoliated in a warm bath. Nail shaping and gentle cuticle treatment will keep your nails looking their best. Finish with a moisturizing lotion massage and the polish color of your choice.

spa pedicure

$40

Feet are soaked in a warm bath and exfoliated. Nails are shaped, cuticles pushed back and conditioned followed by a complete foot massage for relaxation, finishing with the polish color of your choice.

body spa

Tropical Fruit Scrub

$55

A blend of pineapple, mango, papaya, honey and an infusion of essential oils is massaged into the skin for a soft, silky and radiant glow.

Seaweed Scrub

$60

Rich in minerals, this body exfoliation, purifies the skin while stimulating new cell growth.

Honey Polish

$55

Organic cane sugar and honey works as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin, detoxify, and stimulate your skin to heal and renew.

mud mask

$70

This mask uses special components of essential minerals and vitamins that help to strengthen soft tissue to achieve a toner looking body.

facials

spa facial

$55

Our range of facials detoxify, tone, and revitalize tired and stressed skin using all organic products. Skin is left clean, refreshed and revived.

For last minute bookings contact the front desk at The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant.

All our services can be enjoyed in the comfort of your room, balcony or on the river deck

All prices are in USD and subject to government sales tax of 12.5% and resort fee of 10%

Meeting / Event Quotation Request Form

Drinks

Hot Beverages

The Groves Cacao Hot Chocolate
US 4 | BZ 8
Regular/Decaf Americano
US 2.5 | BZ 5
Cafe Cubano
US 4 | BZ 8
Espresso
US 4 | BZ 8
Double Espresso
US 5 | BZ 10
Cafe Cortado
US 5 | BZ 10
Double Cortado
US 6 | BZ 12
Macchiato
US 5 | BZ 10
Mayan Mocha
US 8 | BZ 16
Cafe Latte
US 6 | BZ 12
Cappuccino
US 6 | BZ 12

Cold Beverages

Bamboo Bar Cold Brew
US 2.5 | BZ 5
Iced Coffee
US 5 | BZ 10
Cappuccino Frappe
US 9 | BZ 18
Iced Fevergrass Tea
US 3.5 | BZ 7
Ginger-Mint-Lime Garden Slushy
US 4 | BZ 8

Natural Juices

Orange
Grapefruit
Watermelon
Pineapple
Sorrel
Tamarind

The Grove House Signature Drinks

Nopal Jalapeño Margarita
US 15 | BZ 30

Nopal is lightly roasted, pureed, and reduced into a rich syrup which provides the main ingredient in this signature version of the popular Mexican cocktail. Nopal syrup, lime juice, and tequila are shaken and strained over ice in a citrus and spice-rimmed margarita glass.

Fever Grass Guava Sangria
US 14 | BZ 28

Cinnamon pineapple syrup, guava and lemon grass juice, lime juice, and simple syrup poured over ice served with a slightly dry red wine float.

The Sleeping Giant Cocktail
US 16 | BZ 32

Farm fresh unsweetened carrot juice comes alive when combined with tequila and just a touch of fresh lime juice with homemade cinnamon pineapple syrup for added flavor. Tequila, carrot juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and cinnamon pineapple syrup are shaken and strained over ice. Served in a citrus and spiced-rimmed glass.

Maíz Colada
US 11 | BZ 22

Sweet corn is pureed with light creamed cheese, shaken with coconut cream, corn syrup, and white rum, served over ice.

Cócotel
US 13 | BZ 26

Freshly picked sweet coconut water carbonated to order, white rum, Tanqueray gin, tequila, lime juice, and signature ginger lemon grass syrup, stirred, with mint leaves added.

Pineapple Upside Down Cocktail
US 16 | BZ 32

Drawing inspiration from the famous dessert, cinnamon pineapple syrup and coconut cream are combined to make pineapple soda. Sky vodka, cinnamon pineapple syrup, passion fruit juice, simple syrup and house made pineapple soda are shaken and strained over ice.

Ixcacao’s Cocktail [Ixkawkaw: Mayan Goddess of Cacao]
US 17 | BZ 34

Locally made cacao cream, bourbon, hints of espresso, and simple syrup served over smoked ice.

Soursop Sip
US 12 | BZ 24

Soursop is often described in flavor similar to strawberries and apples with sour citrus notes. White rum, coconut cream, soursop juice, and cinnamon pineapple syrup are shaken and strained over ice, topped with a soursop and peach foam.

El Cañero
US 10 | BZ 20

Cane juice rum is combined with passionfruit, orange juice and lime juice, carbonated and poured over gently muddled mint leaves.

Classics

Margarita

US 11 | BZ 22

The famous Mexican threesome is highlighted here; tequila, fresh lime, and orange liqueur.

Classic Mojito

US 10 | BZ 20

Fresh mint leaves are muddled with rum and cane sugar, built and topped off with club soda and a dash of bitters.

Old Fashioned

US 10 | BZ 20

Sugar, and bitters are muddled and combined with bourbon or rye.

Manhattan

US 12 | BZ 24

Whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters are gently stirred and served traditional style.

Pina Colada

US 12 | BZ 24

Arguably, one of the most famous cocktails at least in our neck of the woods, fresh pineapple juice is shaken with sugar cane rum and coconut cream.

Mint Julep

US 10 | BZ 20

This Kentucky Derby classic is replicated in its simple glory; bourbon, sugar, and mint are muddled and packed with ice.

Prices are inclusive of tax. Subject to Resort Fee.

Late Escape

Save 20% when you book 1 night or more with us.

details

the Rainforest lodge at Sleeping giant

wood fired pizza

don tonito's pizza
9 Inches: US 25 | BZ 50

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Black Olives, Onions, Sweet Pepper, Pulled Pork, and Fresh Pineapple

margherita pizza
9 Inches: US 20 | BZ 40

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Oregano, Fresh Basil, and drizzled with Olive Oil

pepperoni pizza
9 Inches: US 24 | BZ 48

Tomato sauce, Mozzarella, and Pepperoni

hawaiian pizza
9 Inches: US 24 | BZ 48

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Ham, and Fresh Pineapple

meat lover's pizza
9 Inches: US 29 | BZ 58

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Bacon, Ham, Sausage and Pepperoni

arugula pizza
9 Inches: US 21 | BZ 42

Mozzarella, Parmesan, Ham, Cheese, Garlic, Arugula, drizzled with Olive Oil and Balsamic Dressing

Ortolana Pizza
9 Inches: US 23 | BZ 46

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Roasted Tomato, Purple Onion, Sweet Pepper, Black Olives, Mushroom and Fresh Basil

garlic shrimp pizza
9 Inches: US 24 | BZ 48

Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Basil, and Garlic Shrimp

extra toppings

add to pizza
Jalapenos
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Mushroom
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Black Olives
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Sweet Pepper
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Pineapple
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Purple Onion
US 1.5 | BZ 3
Pepperoni
US 1.5 | BZ 3

tapas

breadsticks with cheese
US 7 | BZ 14
caprese salad
US 10 | BZ 20
mini steak pizza
US 18 | BZ 36
bruschetta
US 7 | BZ 14
garlic shrimp
US 10.5 | BZ 21

All prices are subject to 12.5% GST and 10% Resort Fee.

Dinner

Appetizer

Mozzarella Sticks
US 17 | BZ 34

Seasoned, black olive crusted mozzarella cheese sticks, deep fried to a golden finish, served with a yellow corn vinaigrette, pickled green papaya and our own tomato jelly.

Pork Tail Tostadas
US 13 | BZ 26

Creole shredded pigtail served with crispy wonton and marinated leeks accompanied by a citrus yogurt dressing.

Beetroot Paté
US 12 | BZ 24

Smooth beetroot paté, chimichurri sauce, and  fresh paneer cheese served with garlic herb crostini.

Yellow Corn Ducunu
US 9 | BZ 18

Fried local corn ducunu served with a tomato and bacon jelly and topped with crema de queso.

Entree

Pollo de Cobánero Chile
US 18 | BZ 36

Chicken in a sauce of roasted spices with citrus-zested creamy rice and carrots infused with cinnamon herb butter.

Citrus Chicken Breast
US 19 | BZ 38

Free-range chicken breast seared in a citrus recado sauce with a side of sweet pan fried ducunu and green beans sauteed in bacon fat.

Paneer Cheese Steak
US 30 | BZ 60

Chimichurri paneer steak served with creamy eggplant pilaf, cinnamon roasted carrots and our house red bell pepper sauce.

Red Pepper and Spinach Penne Pasta
US 18 | BZ 36

Penne pasta, dehydrated mushrooms tossed in olive oil, and organic spinach cooked in a roasted red bell pepper sauce, finished with grated parmesan and black olive powder. Served with a side of garlic herb crostini.

Prawn and Morcilla Sausage Carbonara Pasta
US 46 | BZ 92

Grilled prawns served over linguine with red bell pepper carbonara sauce and crispy morcilla sausage topped with parmesan and black olive powder. Served with a side of garlic herb crostini.

Camaron en Crema de Yucca
US 43 | BZ 86

Prawn served in crema de yucca with lime-zested rice and sweet arugula. served with a side of garlic herb crostini.

Tamarind Molasses Pork Chops
US 22 | BZ 44

1” pork chops marinated with Chef’s tamarind-molasses marinade served with roasted cinnamon carrots and sweet arugula.

Cardamom and Yogurt Lamb Chops
US 26 | BZ 52

Succulent lamb chops grilled to perfection served with a cardamom yogurt sauce, sesame arugula and fried ducunu.

Citrus Herb Fish Fillet
US 38 | BZ 76

Fresh fish fillet in a citrus marinade with a side of creamy citrus rice, roasted tomato, and red pepper sauce, and sauteed spinach.

Sorrel and Orange Short Ribs
US 19 | BZ 38

Local beef ribs glazed with a sorrel and orange sauce served with a potato puree and arugula salad seared in sesame oil.

Peppercorn and Cardamom Beef Tenderloin
US 44 | BZ 88

Beef Tenderloin drizzled with a peppercorn and cardamom sauce, served with bacon fat sauteed green beans and potato puree.

Soups

Kak’ik Chicken Soup
US 11 | BZ 22

Traditional Q’eqchi’ Mayan chicken soup with citrus micro cilantro and a side of handmade corn tortilla.

Tomato and Black Bean Soup
US 8 | BZ 16

Fried wontons stuffed with blue cheese served in a black bean and tomato soup simmered over a traditional fogón served with a side of garlic herb crostini.

Salads

Guava Spinach Salad
US 17 | BZ 34

Organic baby spinach, guava ribbons, onions, tomatoes, and farm fresh ricotta cheese, topped with salted toasted pepitos and a soursop vinaigrette.

Arugula and Black Olive Salad
US 16 | BZ 32

Fresh arugula topped with dried olives, Parmesan cheese, and infused cherry tomatoes drizzled with a yellow corn vinaigrette.

Lemon Grass Carrot and Green Papaya Salad
US 17 | BZ 34

Pickled lemon grass infused carrots tossed with farm fresh lettuce, pickled green papaya, infused tomatoes, and toasted pepitos with a lime zested yogurt dressing.

Vegan

Grilled Cauliflower & Chickpea Puree
US 13 | BZ 26

Fresh organic cauliflower drizzled in pressed coconut oil, grilled and served over roasted cherry tomatoes and a cumin chickpea puree.

Ginger Teriyaki Glazed Tofu Steak
US 14 | BZ 28

Grilled bean curd glazed with fresh ginger and soy sauce, accompanied by spinach and cumin chickpea puree.

Sweet Potato & Crostini Soup
US 11 | BZ 22

Slow roasted potatoes in coconut milk and spices, served with freshly toasted crostini.

Sweet Potato & Coconut Creamy Pasta
US 13 | BZ 26

Locally harvested sweet potato served in coconut milk and assorted spices, tossed with al dente linguine pasta and basil leaf.

Farmers Vegetable Lasagna
US 14 | BZ 28

Hand selected farm vegetables over our classic tomato sauce, topped with Mennonite cheese, before being baked to perfection. Served with a bowl of coconut white rice.

Desserts

The Grove House Mascarpone Cake

US 9 | BZ 18

Lime-infused cream and mascarpone layered over an orange-flavoured sponge cake, topped with flambéed meringue.

Guava Cheesecake

US 13 | BZ 26

Smooth guava cheesecake with bites of guava fruit garnished with an almond and cinnamon crumble.

Red Pepper Jam Profiterole

US 7 | BZ 14

Craquelin topped cream puff filled with a house-made red pepper jalapeño jam and cream cheese served over chocolate sauce.

Tres Leches con Queso Edam

US 8 | BZ 16

Our Chef’s spin on traditional tres leches cake. Sponge cake moistened in a three-milk sauce with a mascarpone filling garnished with edam cheese.

Mayan Chocolate Cake

US 8 | BZ 16

Silky chocolate cake coated with a citrus-infused chocolate ganache.

Prices inclusive of 12.5% GST. Subject to a 10% Resort Fee.

Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Sugar Corn Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Nance Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Soursop Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Prices inclusive of 12.5% GST. Subject to a 10% Resort Fee.

Lunch

Appetizer

Black Corn Shrimp Tostadas
US 11 | BZ 22

Fried tortilla shell topped with burnt yellow corn-marinated shrimp, purple onions, sliced jalapeno, and marinated cucumber peels.

Creole Pigtail and Black Beans Panades
US 14 | BZ 28

Yellow corn stuffed with Creole pig tail and black beans, topped with all-spice cucumber and herb lettuce slaw.

Mediterranean Vegetable and Beet Pâté
US 18 | BZ 36

Beet root pâté with vegetables marinated in olive oil, and ricotta cheese served with fried green plantain chips.

Sandwiches

Sourdough Oxtail Sandwich
US 17 | BZ 34

Creole shredded oxtail on a toasted sourdough bun with marinated leeks, purple onion, and a side of fried plantain chips.

The Giant Burger
US 18 | BZ 36

Grilled patty, blue cheese, onions, tomatoes, and lettuce on a toasted sourdough bun served with seasoned potato fries.

Entree

Beef Brisket Nachos
US 15 | BZ 30

Shredded slow-smoked pulled brisket, fogón black beans, Belizean cheese dip, purple cabbage, jalapeno slices and shaved Parmesan served with fresh fried corn tortilla chips.

Pollo Asado
US 20 | BZ 40

Citrus grilled chicken served with handmade flour tortilla, fogón black beans, chipotle tomato sauce, nopal sauce and pickled green papaya.

Yogurt Lamb Tostadas
US 20 | BZ 40

Shredded lamb and cardamom yogurt sauce on fried yellow corn shells with pickled beets, white onions, Parmesan cheese.

Pincho de Borrego
US 25 | BZ 50

Grilled lamb skewers and handmade corn tortillas served with a selection of house-made sauces including chimichurri sauce, pepper sauce, chipotle tomato BBQ sauce, and cardamom yogurt sauce.

Camarones y Tomate Carpaccio
US 25 | BZ 50

Grilled shrimp on sliced organic tomatoes marinated in olive oil, marinated shallots, chives and shaved parmesan, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette with a side of herb crostini.

Salads

Grove House Green Salad
US 16 | BZ 32

Fresh arugula and lettuce paired with cucumbers, green beans, celery, basil, and pork sausage crumbles served with soursop vinaigrette.

Fior di Latte Mozzarella Salad
US 15 | BZ 30

Fior di latte cheese shredded over colour lettuce, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, topped with toasted peanuts and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.

Shrimp and Arugula Salad
US 18 | BZ 36

Shaved Parmesan and pepitos granola on a bed of fresh arugula with fried shrimp and lime zested yogurt dressing.

Vegan

Chickpea Curry & Peanut Pasta
US 10 | BZ 20

Al dente linguine pasta tossed in chickpeas and peanut sauce, served alongside a warm, toasted baguette.

Coconut & Ginger Tofu Stew
US 12 | BZ 24

Ginger shredded fresh over coconut milk, herbs and bean curd, served with white rice and fried plantains.

Sundried Tomato & Bean Soup
US 9 | BZ 18

Stewed red kidney beans and crushed sundried tomatoes, spiced to perfection and topped with garlic croutons.

Teriyaki Vegetable Rice Bowl
US 11 | BZ 22

Hand selected market vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce, served with our coconut cilantro white rice and freshly grated ginger and spices.

Black Beans Empanadas
US 8 | BZ 16

Hand pressed yellow corn tortilla stuffed with refried black beans, fried golden brown and served with pickled purple cabbage.

kids menu

Mini Chicken Fingers
US 10 | BZ 20

Seasoned chicken tenders breaded with spiced panko, deep fried until golden crisp served with potato fries.

Mini Brisket Quesadillas
US 10 | BZ 20

Cheesy corn tortillas stuffed with smoked pulled brisket with a side of pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream.

kids beef sliders
US 10 | BZ 20

Shredded slow-smoked local brisket over soft garlic butter mini buns, and melted cheese.

Mini Pepperoni Pizzas
US 10 | BZ 20

A kid-sized authentic Don Tonito’s pizza topped with traditional tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices.

Kids Pasta
US 10 | BZ 20

Linguine pasta tossed in a slow-roasted tomato sauce with fresh herbs, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Smoked Chicken Sandwich
US 10 | BZ 20

Sliced milk bread topped with cured smoked chicken breast slices, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with cream cheese dijon aioli.

Tonito’s Baked Cheese sticks
US 10 | BZ 20

Gooey mozzarella cheese stuffed inside a thin crust with a side of basil tomato sauce.

Desserts

The Grove House Mascarpone Cake

US 9 | BZ 18

Lime-infused cream and mascarpone layered over an orange-flavoured sponge cake, topped with flambéed meringue.

Guava Cheesecake

US 13 | BZ 26

Smooth guava cheesecake with bites of guava fruit garnished with an almond and cinnamon crumble.

Red Pepper Jam Profiterole

US 7 | BZ 14

Craquelin topped cream puff filled with a house-made red pepper jalapeño jam and cream cheese served over chocolate sauce.

Tres Leches con Queso Edam

US 8 | BZ 16

Our Chef’s spin on traditional tres leches cake. Sponge cake moistened in a three-milk sauce with a mascarpone filling garnished with edam cheese.

Mayan Chocolate Cake

US 8 | BZ 16

Silky chocolate cake coated with a citrus-infused chocolate ganache.

All prices are inclusive of GST and subject to 10% Resort Fee.

Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Sugar Corn Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Nance Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

Soursop Ice Cream

US 6 | BZ 12

All prices are inclusive of GST and subject to 10% Resort Fee.

Breakfast

The Little Donkey

US 9 | BZ 18

breakfast burrito of warm handmade flour tortilla stuffed with re-fried beans, scrambled eggs, crispy
pork bacon, farm vegetables and fresh Mennonite cheese

Belizean Stuff Jack

US 10 | BZ 20

golden fried flour tortilla, stuffed with re-fried beans, sauteed vegetables,
habanero flavored sausage, scrambled eggs, and Mennonite cheese, served with pickled habanero curtido

The Giant Pancakes

US 10 | BZ 20

2 giant pancakes dusted with cinnamon sugar, topped with tropical fruit chutney, served with a side of grilled habanero flavored sausage

The Village Breakfast

US 11 | BZ 22

farm fresh eggs scrambled with onions and tomatoes, accompanied by
coconut refried beans, crispy bacon and Belizean fried jacks

Chef's Farm Omelette

US 10 | BZ 20

2-egg omelette filled with sauteed organic vegetables, served with toasted
baguettes and fresh Mennonite ricotta cheese

Continental Basket

US 12 | BZ 24

Baked goods, butter, jams, yogurt, fruit, and granola

All prices are inclusive of GST and subject to 10% Resort Fee.

Time to book your stay

1512 Chemin de Stramousse, 06530
Grasse, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

  • (555) 777 5555
  • book@brooklyn.com

Antoine Lavoisier – managing director