The roots of the Vanilla Bean Inn lie in a serendipitous meeting in Punta Gorda, Belize, back in 2012. Tammy, alongside her late husband Michael, was on a quest to find their dream property. Their search led them to Wendy, then a diligent real estate agent. This meeting was the beginning of a deep and enduring friendship between Tammy and Wendy.
Tammy and Wendy quickly realized that their encounter was more than just coincidence. They shared a belief in destiny and the idea that certain paths in life are meant to cross. Referring to each other as sisters, they found in each other kindred spirits with shared values and aspirations.
Their friendship blossomed over the years, with both women supporting each other’s dreams and ambitions. Tammy, through her healing and literary talents, and Wendy, with her entrepreneurial acumen, it was recognized that there is a lack of services catering to the lifestyle needs of seniors and singles who seek a minimalist, affordable, and independent way of living abroad. They realized that together they could create something extraordinary. This led to the inception of the Vanilla Bean Inn.
Today, the Vanilla Bean Inn stands as a testament to Tammy and Wendy’s vision. Located in the heart of Belize, it’s more than just an inn; it’s a place where owning a condo unit brings about an experience of the warmth, care, and inspiration that come from its founders’ unique stories. The inn is not just a retreat; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when dreams are pursued with passion and determination.
Join us at the Vanilla Bean Inn, where every day is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an environment of inspiration, relaxation, and new beginnings. Here, every owner is not just a visitor, but a part of our ever-growing story.
Co-Founder & Creative Force
Tammy Smith
Tammy Smith, a Canadian native, co-owns the Vanilla Bean Inn. Her life, marked by resilience and creativity, adds a special touch to our inn. As a clinical hypnotherapist and an award-winning author (known by her pen name Tammy Tyree), Tammy brings depth and warmth to the inn’s atmosphere. Her literary works, especially her memoir “Dead Men Still Snore,” showcase her profound understanding of life’s complexities. Her role at the inn extends beyond management; she infuses the space with a sense of community and hospitality.
Co-Founder & Entrepreneurial Spirit
Wendy Miller
Wendy’s path to the Vanilla Bean Inn is a story of transformation. From a Systems Analyst in Ontario to embracing her passions in Real Estate, Wendy’s journey speaks volumes about pursuing one’s dreams. Her relocation to Belize wasn’t just a change of scenery but the realization of a lifelong dream. Wendy’s expertise in real estate and her forward-thinking approach have been instrumental in shaping the inn’s vision.