If you can swing it, I recommend taking the Maya Air or Tropic Air puddle jumper flights from Belize City International to Placencia. It's a lot quicker than the bus, but a lot more expensive. I can't remember how much; you should check their websites. It takes about 45 minutes by plane. On the bus, you'll get to see the countryside more than on the plane, but we always found the transfer at Dangriga bus station extremely confusing. Anyway, as far as accomodations, what type are you looking for? Do you like full service resort type place, or more of a basic hotel/guest house? As far as the beach, Placencia had the best beach in Belize, in my opinion. But that was pre-hurricane. Not sure what the status is....you should check this website..there are recent photos somewhere that I've seen.
[This message has been edited by trina (edited 03-25-2002).]