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🌟 Staff Spotlight: Francis: A Legacy on Wheels at Ramon’s Village Resort
If you’ve ever rented a golf cart at Ramon’s Village Resort, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Francis—the man behind the smooth operation of our golf cart rentals. For more than three decades, Francis has been a cornerstone of the Ramon’s family, serving with unwavering dedication, quiet leadership, and a deep love for the island he now calls home.
Francis began his journey at Ramon’s Village in 1992, just 21 years old and full of determination. Originally from Orange Walk, Belize, he moved to Ambergris Caye in search of opportunity. Before joining the resort, he made ends meet through odd jobs around the island. But everything changed after a conversation with Celi, Ramon’s Head of Accounting, who knew his family. Francis’s father, Shankai, worked for Graniels Construction—a company that has built Ramon’s from the ground up. That connection opened the door, and Francis stepped into a role that would come to shape his career.
Starting out in vehicle rentals, Francis was the first friendly face you’d see at Ramon’s Village. He was responsible for transporting guests to and from the resort. Francis quickly proved himself reliable and capable. Within two years, he was promoted to supervisor—a title he has proudly held for the last 30 years. Today, he oversees a team of employees, making sure carts are well-maintained, employees are punctual and productive, and every guest is taken care of with a smile. But his role doesn’t stop there. Francis also assists with wedding and event logistics, helps keep the grounds looking sharp, and pitches in wherever he’s needed. No two days are the same—and that’s exactly what he loves about the job.
“The best part is meeting different people and doing different things every day,” Francis says with a warm grin. His easygoing nature and quiet efficiency make him a favorite among both staff and guests.
Over the years, Francis has watched Ambergris Caye transform. “There used to be nothing between the speed bumps,” he recalls. “Now there are buildings everywhere. Where the supermarket is now—there used to be just water.” Despite the rapid growth, Francis still treasures the island’s calm pace. “Island life gives you liberty, peace, and tranquility,” he reflects. “It’s slower here than the mainland. I love that.”
When asked what he would tell someone who’s never visited, Francis doesn’t hesitate: “San Pedro is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belize. And Ramon’s—it’s iconic. It was one of the first hotels on the island, and it’s still standing. Still the best hotel on the island. It’s rustic and authentic.”
When he’s not working, you might find Francis enjoying his favorite dish at Pineapples on the Beach—fresh ceviche, of course. And looking toward the future, his hope is simple but thoughtful: “I’d like to see a bigger fleet of golf carts so we can offer even better service to our guests.”
With 32 years of dedication and a heart full of island pride, Francis isn’t just a supervisor—he’s a symbol of the spirit and hospitality that make Ramon’s Village Resort so special.