2023 in Honduras (Roatán)
On April 3, 2023, the Norwegian Joy brought me to Roatán, Honduras, which resulted in the visit of my 28th unique country:
This made it my:
- 1st time in Honduras
- 2nd time in Central America
- 1st time, not including Mexico
Visit
So, Roatán is technically in Honduras but has its own distinct culture from the mainland. The vibe feels more Caribbean than Central American (English-speaking with token Spanish signs, with more Black than Hispanic locals). The island stretches for about 60 km in length and has a width of about 8 km.
When passengers get dropped off in Roatán, they get dropped off at a gated port. They could spend all this time here among the shops, bars and restaurants. Or, they could take an excursion and experience more of the island.
After exploring the gated port, I took a pre-booked excursion (about 3 hours long) with the cruise line to see the rest of the island. The "bus" was more like a 15-seater van and took us to see:
- Macaw Market
- tried some local espresso coffee (quite a perk up!)
- French Cay
- a swampy forest of mangroves
- a "cruise within a cruise"
- Lookout point with a view of the coral reefs
- the second largest coral reef in the world
- Las Palmas
- a beach resort area
- also watched a Garifuna tribal dance performance
- the Garifuna are a tribe indigenous to Roatán
Reflection
So, although I claim to have set foot in Honduran territory, I did not visit mainland Honduras. Rather, I visited an insular exclave that had its own distinct culture.
Also, helpful tip: Roatán merchants will prefer the local Honduran lempira currency over US dollars and will give a discount for anyone using the native cash!