Nestled in 19 lush acres on a private reserve in Belize’s Placencia Peninsula, the 7,000-square-foot Naia Spa debuted with tailored wellness-focused treatments and abundant local flavor. “The concept for Naïa emerged from the Belizean experience and is reflected in every aspect of the resort,” says Stewart Krohn, Belizean television executive and lead partner of Naia Resort and Spa. “We started with an unbelievably beautiful site and our guiding principle was to enhance that natural environment without overwhelming it. I am confident that we have succeeded in turning that vision into reality.” Built on a series islands, water plays a key role throughout the spa. In fact, Naia's name is derived from the Greek word naiad, which in Greek mythology is a female spirit who presides over fountains, wells, springs, streams, brooks and other bodies of fresh water. The inspired offerings in the six-treatment-room spa are certainly sacred. In collaboration with local physicians and healers, the staff at Naia created two signature experiences to provide visitors a deep connection to the land and traditions. Sun Quenched Clay (60 minutes; 90 minutes) is a detoxifying and revitalizing body treatment and massage incorporating Golden Clay from the Toledo District of Belize, which is grated by hand, washed with rainwater, and dried in the sun to produce a clay rich in nutrients that exfoliates skin and draws out impurities. Mystic Light (60 minutes) honors the ancients through a powerful ceremony—foot bath, reiki, and chakra balancing techniques—designed to create a sense of lightness and awareness of new possibilities. The menu also includes a selection of highly curated services featuring Eminence Organic Skin Care and SpaRitual nailcare products. The spa also boasts a private island couples’ suite, and the rest of the treatment rooms extend over tranquil lily-covered waters.