The people behind the properties

Daniel practiced law in Montreal for more than three decades, first as a criminal prosecutor and later as a defense attorney. A solo diving trip to Ambergris Caye changed the course of his life: he bought a small beachfront hotel on a secluded stretch of the island and grew it into Matachica Resort & Spa, later adding Gaïa Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge. His idea of what matters has never changed.

"Building a room is easy. The real luxury is the ease, the calm, everything you can't touch [...] Beyond the Frette sheets, what makes our hotels special is our staff. No guest ever forgets the Belizeans who cared for them during their stay."

Born and raised in the Orange Walk District, Jorge joined Matachica in 2010 at age 18. It was his first job on Ambergris Caye, and he worked through nearly every department, from front desk to restaurant management to operations, before being named General Manager in 2024. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the San Pedro chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association and of the Ambergris North Alliance.

"In Belize, hospitality is not just a service, it's a celebration of culture, nature, and connection,"

Nigel began his career in 2003 at the original Five Sisters Lodge and helped guide its transformation into Gaïa Riverlodge. Since 2012 he has led the lodge’s daily operations, guest experience, and sustainability work, earning Green Globe Certification and Belize Hotel of the Year in 2015. He holds a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Belize.

"The tranquility of the Mountain Pine Ridge and the opportunity to lead an environmentally responsible operation align deeply with my personal and professional values."

Stephen grew up visiting Belize and found his calling in food and wine early, training at the Culinary Institute of America in Baking and Pastry Arts and in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Wine Studies. He honed his craft at Bouchon Bakery in Napa Valley and at The French Laundry before returning to Belize in 2020 to lead the reimagining of dining at both properties.

"I get to mix all of my passions into one job, [...] I love Belize, its culture, its flavors, its people. Creating special moments for our guests and our team is what makes the work so rewarding."