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Curator’s statement
Excited to explore another country on my quest to visit a hundred, I strolled from the cruise port to meet Luis, my driver. With only eight hours to spare, I figured hiring a local would maximize my time. I am always eager to seek local culture and explore new countries. I couldn't have enjoyed Roatan more!
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Port
Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort and Spa
Experience Caribbean luxury on the shores of Roatán, where vibrant island charm meets modern sophistication, providing a tropical oasis for relaxation and adventure.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
Roatan, an island off Honduras' coast, boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters along the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Mainland Honduras, unfortunately, has a grim reputation for violence due to gang activity and drug trafficking. This definitely makes it not a top travel destination.
Yet, Roatan seems to be an exception. Luis assured me it's safe, despite ominous signs cautioning about leaving secure areas near the cruise port.
Despite the warnings, I had an amazing day with Luis. He proudly showed us around an animal sanctuary, a coffee factory, a rum distillery and West End Beach, reputedly the island's best.
Throughout our tour, Luis kept mentioning, "Let me show you where the Americans live. You'll love it." But honestly, I was more curious about how Hondurans live.
Cruises are fantastic for maximizing your time in new places, but sometimes they miss the local flavor. Pumping American music and NFL souvenirs everywhere you look. Not my idea of cultural immersion!
After several stops, Luis drove us towards West Bay Beach. Passing through West End — a bit gritty and touristy, but authentically Roatan — I couldn't contain my excitement. "This looks great! I love this!"
But Luis insisted, "No, no, this isn't the nice part."
"Oh, come on, Luis," I said, eager to explore. Reluctantly, he stopped, and I promised not to linger too long since we had to "see where the Americans live."
West End, with its public beaches and local shops, was a glimpse into the real Roatan, away from the upscale resorts of West Bay.
Overall, of the three ports we visited, Roatan was my favorite. I'm already planning a week-long return to dive deeper into its culture and beauty. Luis will definitely be my go-to guide again — though, yes, where the Americans live did turn out to be quite lovely!
Need to know
I highly recommend hiring a driver to explore the entire island during your port of call.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Honduras. In need of further inspiration? Check out Cam Le’s guide, Adventures in Honduras: Your Travel Guide to Roatán.
