Despite being the second largest and second most populated country in Central America, the remarkable nation of Honduras is often overlooked by tourists. Those who do visit tend to take a whirlwind tour of the impressive Mayan ruins at Copán or the Bay Islands, which boasts some exquisite beaches and the world’s second-largest coral reef where snorkeling and diving are exceptional by any standard. However, this astonishingly diverse country has plenty to offer the discerning traveler willing to spend time discovering its hidden treasures. These include the quaint colonial villages of Gracias, Comayagua, the spectacularly scenic rain forests of the Mosquito Coast, which host a number of fascinating indigenous tribes, the boisterous nightlife and numerous skillfully made handicrafts of San Pedro Sula. Whether you seek wild adventure sports, exotic culinary delights or merely a quiet beach lined with palm trees to hang your hammock, Honduras will undoubtedly satisfy your every need.
Idyllically situated in the Caribbean Sea near the world's second-largest coral reef, the tropical paradise of Roatan Island is the largest of Honduras' astonishingly beautiful Bay Islands. It is known for its exquisite golden sand beaches and world-renowned diving attractions such as shipwrecks, a submerged airplane, and some spectacular night diving. The area is a haven for an abundance of both marine and land-based wildlife, including innumerable species of tropical fish, turtles, dolphins, whales, parrots, iguanas, and monkeys. Visitors tend to navigate the island by water taxi to visit its fascinating sights. These include the educational Institute of Marine Sciences, an iguana farm home to thousands of these remarkable reptiles, the traditional Garifuna cultural settlement in Punta Gorda, and the lush, green pine-forested hills of the island's mountainous interior. With its laid-back lifestyle, fabulously fresh and flavorful local seafood, and warm and welcoming locals, Roatan Island is an ideal tropical island getaway.
