If you travel with your life's savings in your backpack and an array of superexpensive items, you're safe with Anna and her draconian paranoid grandma tactics. The first thing you must note about Smokin Balam is that it's a bait and switch "LowCost" guest house where the low price of the room hides the fact that they're out to get... More

Although this is not the sort of accommodation I'd normally seek out I really have to hand it to Smokin' Balam and Anna for doing such a fine job. The location just a couple blocks north of the swing bridge is perfect for everything you might need for a short Belize City stay. The ferries to the cayes are within... More

I want to take the opportunity to give Smokin' Balam, in Belize City, a rave review and strong recommendation. I had to stay in Belize City upon arrival on my transit day, and found Smokin' Balam on Lonely Planet. The landlady, Lara Ann, is a true gem. Belize City is a rough town, and I was a solo female traveler.... More

My first impression of this place was not a good one. We looked at a room and then decided to check the cheaper and more basic place across the street aswell. The owner seemed to take offence at this and told us to go there if that was what we wanted. Normally I would have walked away at this point... More