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What to Pack for Your Vacation in Roatan

It’s quite often left to the last minute, but getting your luggage packed will be an absolute must before you head to the airport.  One great thing about tropical vacations is that you don’t need to worry about bringing bulky, warm clothing. A few pairs of shorts and T-shirts can serve you very well even if you forget everything else.  To help make sure you have more than a single change of clothes for your entire holiday, we’ve written about what to pack for your vacation in Roatan.

Carry On Luggage

With all the extra charges that airlines seem to be implementing, going on vacation with carry on luggage only is becoming much more common.  And it is possible if you pack strategically. You might have to do laundry once or twice while you’re away, but you also have the added bonus of not worrying about lost luggage or waiting around at the airport for your bags to drop out onto the conveyor belts.

Liquids

If you’re only bringing a carry-on, your biggest limitation will be the amount of liquids you can bring.  All the containers must be less than 3 ounces and all fit into a single quart-sized bag. Tropical holiday essentials such as sunscreen and bug spray may make this challenging, but it is possible.

A Comfortable Flight

There are things you can pack in your carry on bag that will make your flight more comfortable.  You may have heard that airplane tray tables can be some of the dirtiest places onboard. Give these a wipe down with some hand sanitizer upon boarding.  This could reduce the chances of a vacation ruining the cold or flu. A bottle of water and some snacks will not only save you some money if your airline is charging you for food, but they can also tide you over while waiting for the refreshment cart to make its way to you.  If you have the ability to sleep on a plane, earplugs, an eye mask and a neck pillow can make your snooze more comfortable. A reusable grocery bag can also come in very handy. You can use it to store inflight essentials under your seat and reduce the need for plastic bags throughout your trip.

Source By: https://bluebahiaresort.wordpress.com/2019/12/25/what-to-pack-for-your-vacation-in-roatan/

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Is it safe to eat lionfish in Roatan

Lionfish are an invasive species that originates from the South Pacific.  It’s thought it was introduced to the Atlantic by the aquarium trade.  The fish is flamboyantly beautiful with large fins and 13 towering spines which makes it very popular amongst aquarium owners.  But now that it’s begun reproducing along the east coast of the southern US all the way down beyond Brazil it’s been wiping out many native fish populations.  In an attempt to control the lionfish population efforts have been made to promote it as a tasty meal.  Is it safe to eat lionfish in Roatan?  It absolutely is.  Once the fish is cooked the venom is deactivated.

Lionfish Culls

It’s pretty much agreed among marine scientists that it’s too late for the lionfish to be completely eradicated from the Atlantic.  It’s a fast reproducing fish with no real predators in its new environment.  It also tends to spend a lot of time at depths of 1000 feet or more making it difficult to capture.  But attempts have been made to at least try and control the population.  Divers and fishers are encouraged to catch lionfish and many fishing derbies and competitions focused on the lionfish have been organized. The restaurant at Blue Bahia Resort has a lionfish cookout every Friday!

Dangerous?  

Being stung by a lionfish can be an extremely painful situation.  It’s normally not life-threatening for those who aren’t specifically allergic to the venom, but it can cause painful swelling that lasts for several days.  It is sometimes accompanied by headaches, nausea, cramping, and temporary paralysis.  That said, lionfish aren’t aggressive when approached by human beings, so most stings are accidental.  The venom must be injected into the skin for it to cause any problems, but it still works even when the fish is dead.  Therefore care must be taken around the poisonous spines at all times.  

Sting Treatment

If stung by a lionfish the treatment is the same as if you were stung by a stingray.  This involves soaking the affected area in extremely hot water or applying another type of heat source.  Of course, the water must be so hot that it causes a burn, but it must be as hot as possible - up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.  The heat breaks down the venom’s proteins and can help reduce the severity and duration of the sting’s symptoms.

Source By: https://www.prlog.org/12800389-is-it-safe-to-eat-lionfish-in-roatan.html

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Want to Try Scuba Diving? Take the Discover Scuba Diving Course in Roatan!

If you’ve ever had the chance to snorkel in parts of the ocean that has abundant sealife you may have felt the frustration of not being able to get as close as you’d like.  This may have gotten you thinking about scuba diving. But you might be you’re unsure whether you’d like it. You might not be willing to make the commitment to get certified.  Or maybe you’re frightened by how much it would cost. Maybe you just want to try scuba diving? Take the Discover Scuba Diving Course in Roatan!  This is the perfect primer for those who want a taste of what scuba diving is all about without the commitment or cost of working towards certification.

Why Try Scuba Diving In Roatan?

There are many reasons that Roatan is a great place to have your first scuba diving experience.  First and foremost is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. After the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, this is the second largest reef system in the world.  And with Roatan located right along it’s southwest edge, you don’t even need a boat to get to it. The water around Roatan remains above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) all year round, so you’ll always be comfortable in the water.   And if cost is a concern, you’ll be happy to know that Roatan offers some of the most economical scuba diving prices anywhere in the world.

What Is The Discover Scuba Diving Course?

The Discover Scuba Diving Course was made for people who wanted to try scuba diving to see if they might actually like it enough to continue on with certification.  The half day course allows you to familiarize yourself with the equipment and safety procedures and actually dive as deep as 40 feet (12 meters) all on the same day!  You’ll always be under professional supervision ensuring your experience is safe and enjoyable. Taking the Discover Scuba Diving Course is the most economical way to actually get to dive if you aren’t already certified.  If you feel like scuba diving might be for you, you can continue on the path towards beginner certification and more.

Source by: https://www.prlog.org/12795270-want-to-try-scuba-diving-take-the-discover-scuba-diving-course-in-roatan.html

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WestJet Direct Flights to Roatan

WestJet Airlines recently announced the debut of weekly non-stop flights between Toronto and the Honduran island of Roatan.  This seasonal service offers North Americans an affordable and convenient way to get to the Caribbean island during the colder months of the year.   Flights will begin in December of 2019 and continue until the spring. The connection between Toronto’s Lester B. Pearson International Airport and Coxen Hole’s Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport will take between 4 hours and 41 minutes and 4 hours and 17 minutes.  WestJet will be operating their Boeing 737s on the route.

WestJet serves over 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe.  WestJet’s Chief Commercial Officer, Arved von zur Muehlen, said, “With the addition of the snorkelling paradise of Roatán to our network, WestJet guests now have convenient access to 14 Caribbean destinations non-stop from Toronto this winter.  Roatán is home to miles of coastline featuring barrier reefs, white sand beaches and turquoise waters and is a bucket list getaway that we can’t wait for our guests to explore starting this December.”

Roatan is surrounded by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest barrier reef.  This, and the fact that the island offers some of the lowest priced diving in the world, has made it a top destination for scuba divers.  Because the reef is an easy swim away from the beach in several locations, it’s also perfect for those who prefer to explore the ocean by snorkeling and swimming.

Roatan is also home to many boutique hotels and vacation rental apartments for those who are looking for something different than the typical resort hotel.  Eco-friendly lodges such as the Blue Bahia Resort in Sandy Bay take advantage of the island’s stunning beaches and lush jungle by providing visitors with luxurious, modern condo style apartments with all the amenities.  Featuring a private beach, swimming pool, onsite dive center and the best BBQ restaurant on the island, Blue Bahia is the perfect place for those ready to take advantage WestJet direct flights to Roatan.

source By: https://bluebahiaresort.wordpress.com/2019/09/17/westjet-direct-flights-to-roatan/

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What is Freediving? Highlights From Roatan’s Caribbean Cup

For those who love the water, a wide variety of water based activities and sports are available to them.  From practical activities, such as fishing and treasure hunting, to the competitive, such as boat racing and synchronized swimming or just enjoying the water for its own sake, a life around the water can be filled with an array of specialized endeavors.  One water activity that has begun to play an important role in Roatan is freediving.  What is freediving?  Highlights from Roatan’s Caribbean Cup can shine a light on this relatively new competitive sport.

Freediving Origins

Freediving probably originated because of necessity.  People living near large bodies of water could access new sources of food and other resources if they were able to hold their breath and dive down to the bottom.  Those who were able to stay underwater longer were able to harvest more and be better providers for their families.

Competitive Freediving

People have probably been competing at freediving ever since the practice began.  But records started being kept in the 1960s by the US Navy.  Navy scientists were interested in how long people could hold their breath and survive at extreme depths in order to help submarine sailors.  Once records were kept there were always people looking to beat them.

The Caribbean Cup Roatan Freediving Competition

The Caribbean Cup Roatan Freediving Competition is an annual competition that began in 2013.  Organized by the Roatan Freediving School & Training Center, the contest is sanctioned by the CMAS (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques,) and AIDA International (Association Internationale pour le Développement de l'Apnée.) 

Caribbean Cup 2019 Events

Four events were featured at the 2019 Caribbean Cup:  CWT (Constant Weight With Monofins,) CWB (Constant Weight With Bifins,) CNF (Constant Weight With No Fins,) and FIM (Free Immersion.)

Caribbean Cup 2019 World Records

Four world records were set at this year’s Caribbean Cup.  Alessia Zecchini of Italy broke two different world records.  She achieved a depth of 73 meters in CNF and a depth of 112 meters in CWT.

Ukraine’s Nataliia Zharkova achieved a depth of 91 meters in CWB to break the old record of 89 meters which was set in 2018.  

In the men’s division, Russian Alexey Molchanov, reached a depth of 110 meters in the CWB event.

Resource By: https://www.prlog.org/12786633-what-is-freediving-highlights-from-roatans-caribbean-cup.html

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Why Become a Divemaster in Roatan?

Acquire Transferable Skills If you’re wondering whether you should continue with your PADI certification course to the point of being a certified Divemaster you should know that there are many more benefits to taking the course than simply receiving the credentials and a title. Why become a Divemaster in Roatan? The answers are many. Keep reading to find out how taking the course can further enrich your life.

Gain Extra Knowledge And Confidence 

The Divemaster course is set up in such a way that you’ll be exposed to a wide variety of real and staged situations that allow you to comfortably and confidently react in the correct manner without feeling overly stressed. The Divemaster course builds upon all the other courses you’ve already taken and brings you up to a level where you’ll be able to take care of yourself and others with confidence and courage. If you love diving — and the fact that you’re considering the next step proves that you do — this course will help complete the full picture.

Acquire Transferable Skills

Even if you don’t plan on becoming a professional diver, Divemaster certification comes with a load of skills that can be used in almost any industry. Becoming more confident in first aid, public speaking, customer service, risk management and more can help you with a job search in virtually every field of work. You’ll find the skills acquired through a Divemaster course can be utilized in many other facets of your life.

Become A Representative Of The Ocean

As a Divemaster you’ll have the chance to take part in a wide variety of initiatives and programs that promote marine conservation and ocean preservation. By the time you reach the level of Divemaster you’ll know all too well how important it is to protect the ocean’s resources. As a Divemaster you’ll have an even larger platform from which to serve that purpose.

Become Part Of A Community

As a diver you probably already realize that you’ve become part of a select society. Reaching the level of Divemaster will further secure your position in this tight knit community. Not only will you be in the company of other elite divers, you will be looked upon with respect by those still learning their way. It’s easiest to feel comfortable around those who have gone and are going through what you’ve already experienced and the Divemaster course will prove that.

Our on-site dive shop, Roatan Divers is one of the best dive schools on the island and we have great accommodations for your stay on Roatan while you are completing your divemaster training.

Resource by: https://sites.google.com/site/bluebahiaresortroatan/why-become-a-divemaster-in-roatan

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Benefits of drinking fresh coconut water when vacationing in Roatan

So you’ve finally booked your Roatan vacation!  While you’ll definitely have a lot of fun, did you realize that by using some local, homegrown products you can make yourself healthier as well?  Read more to learn about the benefits of drinking fresh coconut water when vacationing in Roatan.

Coconut Water Is Hydrating

Coconut water has a similar composition to sports drinks, but without all the added sugar.  High levels of magnesium and potassium found in coconut water help to quickly rehydrate the body.  This can be very helpful considering the warm temperatures found on the island.  And if you’ve had a few too many tropical drinks, coconut water can play a role in relieving the symptoms of a hangover.

Coconut Water Can Reduce Blood Pressure

Magnesium found in coconut water relaxes blood vessels and prevents them from constricting.  This allows for the easier flow of the blood and reduces the pressure on the vessel walls.  The potassium found in coconut water can also act to counterbalance the effects of sodium which has been found to increase blood pressure when found in higher concentrations.

Coconut Water Can Help Prevent Heart Diseases

Coconut water has been found to aid in the reduction of arterial plaques which can lead to strokes or heart attacks.  It can also decrease the levels of bad cholesterol while increasing the levels of good cholesterol.  Coconut water directly affects the metabolism of lipids which influence cholesterol levels.

Coconut Water Can Promote Weight Loss

Not only is coconut water low in calories (there are about 65 calories in 12 ounces,) but it contains enzymes which encourage digestion and help metabolize fat.  The aforementioned role that potassium plays in neutralizing sodium will reduce water retention and its associated weight gains.

Coconut Water Can Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Coconut water is rich in a type of amino acids which are thought to allow the body to be more sensitive to insulin.  This increased sensitivity helps regulate the sugar levels in the blood.  Coconut water can also reduce symptoms suffered by those with diabetes such as numbness of the feet and plaque build up in the arteries.

Resource by: https://www.prlog.org/12777229-benefits-of-drinking-fresh-coconut-water-when-vacationing-in-roatan.html

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Love Shipwrecks? Go Scuba Diving in Roatan!

Roatan is one of the most popular scuba diving spots in the world.  With its location next to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system, the second largest barrier reef on earth and some of the lowest priced diving found anywhere on the planet, Roatan has become a haven for scuba divers of all experience levels.  The island’s waters appeal to the interests of divers of all types.  Interested in coral reefs?  Enjoy swimming with marine animals?  Love shipwrecks?  Go scuba diving in Roatan!  In this article we go over a couple of the most popular shipwreck dive sites available to scuba divers visiting Roatan.

El Aguila

Popularly known as the Eagle, the el Aguila originally sank in 1989 off the coast of Utila.  It was salvaged a couple of times before being purchased by a team looking to create a shipwreck specifically for divers.  It was towed to its current location in 1997.  In 1998 it was broken into three pieces by Hurricane Mitch, but that only increased its value to divers.  The 230 foot hull now has many exposed swim throughs which allow intermediate divers to get a good look inside.  Errant parts of the ship that have been strewn across the seabed have created ideal habitats for schools of groupers, snappers, bottom dwellers and eels.

The Odyssey

At 300 feet long, 85 feet tall and 50 feet wide, the Odyssey is the largest intentional shipwreck off the coast of Roatan.  It was sunk in 2002 near the picturesque town of Mud Hole and sits under 110 feet of water on a sandy floor.  The Odyssey too was ravaged by storms which caused the central hull to detach and collapse from the stern and bow.  That said, the ship is so big that it can’t be completely explored in a single dive.  The center of the hull is as big as a football field.  The stern and bow lay at steep angles that become greater every year.  Divers often come across schools of tuna, sharks, groupers and barracuda swimming around the structure.

Resource by: https://www.prlog.org/12746448-why-choose-roatan-boutique-resort.html

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Why Use Reef Friendly Sunscreen When Visiting Roatan

Over the past several decades our world has become pretty well informed about the dangers of extended sun exposure. We’ve even gotten used to wearing sunscreen products all year round, not just when we’re heading out to the beach. Well, it’s been found that all that sunscreen is eventually finding its way into the oceans to detrimental effect. One study estimated more than 14,000 tons of sunscreen ends up in the ocean every year. And it’s causing significant damage to coral reefs around the world.

This realization has caused many of those who depend on ocean-going visitors to rethink their rules and regulations. The state government in Hawaii and marine preserve owners in Mexico, as well as others, have introduced rules meant to decrease the use of sunscreen chemicals that have been found to cause coral reef damage. But we don’t necessarily need to wait for changes in the laws to make changes in our own behavior. In this article, we’ll try to answer the question of “Why use reef friendly sunscreen when visiting Roatan?” We’ll also give some tips on how to stay safe in the sun while still protecting our island’s fabulous reef system.

Recent studies have shown that certain chemicals found in many sunscreens, chiefly oxybenzone and octinoxate, are extremely damaging to the development of coral and its reproductive processes. You don’t even actually have to go in the water while wearing these sunscreens to create problems for the reefs as they’ll eventually wash off in the shower and end up in the ocean anyway. And apparently spray-on sunscreens are even worse offenders since just as much product ends up in the air and sand (and ultimately the ocean) as it does on your body.

Even if sunscreen isn’t the only cause of coral bleaching and reef damage (climate change, microplastics, water pollution, coastal development and more have all been implicated,) it doesn’t take a lot of effort to find ways to enjoy the sun and the ocean without increasing the amount of chemicals that are affecting marine life.

You can attempt to reduce the amount of sunscreen you use while on land by covering up with umbrellas, hats and other clothing. If you’re always in the water, consider investing in a long-sleeved rashguard. Wetsuits are also an effective way to protect yourself from UV rays while swimming.

When you do need to purchase sunscreen, avoid the sprays and stick to lotions and creams. Don’t be assuaged by labels that proclaim to be “ocean-friendly” or “reef-safe.” Check the actual ingredients and avoid those products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Mineral-based sun blockers are preferable. Try zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They won’t absorb into the skin like traditional sunscreens, but because of that they’re even more effective. Go figure that sun blocking facial smudges have become the latest in eco-friendly beach fashion.

Resource by: https://www.prlog.org/12757137-why-use-reef-friendly-sunscreen-when-visiting-roatan.html

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Get PADI certified at home or on your Roatan Vacation?

For many people planning a trip to Honduras and hoping to get their open water PADI certification before they leave, the thought of completing the process in the frigid waters of their local lake or ocean seems like a type of torture. For this reason, the question of, “Should you get PADI certified at home or on your Roatan vacation?” comes up quite often.  To answer this question we’ve listed some considerations to keep in mind when working out the best route to open water PADI certification.

How Much Time Do You Have?

If time isn’t a factor, then you’ll probably enjoy doing your open water dives in the warm, tropical waters off the coast of Roatan more than you would in a local, murky lake with temperatures near freezing.  PADI certification will typically take 40 to 50 hours.  But if you’re only in Roatan for a week, it might be a pretty busy vacation considering you’ll need to dedicate 5 days and a few evenings to complete the course.  You’ll also have to keep in mind that you’ll need at least a 24-hour break between diving and flying.  And if you experience some bad weather, you may find your open water dives being postponed. 

Complete Your Knowledge Development At Home

To cut down on the vacation time dedicated to certification, you might consider completing the knowledge part of the course at home before you leave for holidays. This would allow you to complete it at your leisure rather than spending several evenings of your vacation studying.  Similarly, you can also complete the contained dives at home.  Although the conditions may not be as nice as an outdoor pool on a tropical island, they’ll still be regulated.

Complete Your Dives At Blue Bahia

Because Blue Bahia has its own onsite PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center, you’ll be able to do the dive portions (both contained and open water) of your certification at the same place you’re staying.  If you have the time, you can also do your knowledge test here, but at least you’ll be ensured of a comfortable open water dive in the clear blue waters off the coast of Roatan.

Resource By: https://www.prlog.org/12746448-why-choose-roatan-boutique-resort.html 

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Why Choose a Roatan Boutique Resort?

So you’ve booked your ticket and are heading to Roatan to get away from it all.  Now you only have to decide where you’re going to stay.  Roatan offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from the brand name, all-inclusive mega hotel, to the frugal bunk beds of the backpacker hostel.  But for this trip, we’re letting you know you should check out an exclusive Roatan boutique resort.  It’ll provide opportunities that you just wouldn’t get in the aforementioned options.  This article will show how.

Service

A boutique hotel will have a better staff-to-guest ratio than either the chain hotel or the backpacker’s hostel.  There will be a small enough group of staff that you’ll likely end up knowing them by name, but they’ll never be overwhelmed by large numbers of guests that can’t be properly serviced.  Boutique hotels are known for attracting staff that believes in providing high-end service while making sure it feels personalized, not pretentious.  

Character

Boutique hotels have the ability to express character that, by definition, cannot be found in chain hotels.  Because boutique hotels are typically locally owned and operated, managers aren’t beholden to the rules of a corporate office and its uniform brand requirements.  Expressing affiliation with the local culture and lifestyle is typically seen as more important than creating a homogenous feel from one property to the next.

Locale

Boutique hotels have a flexibility that isn’t found in their larger counterparts.  This allows them to scout out unique locations that probably aren’t available to large-scale operations.  Whether it means building on a particularly beautiful piece of property or within close proximity of a feature attraction, boutique hotels are more easily able to fit into the local framework and use this ability to better serve their guests.

Size

It would almost certainly never happen that you’d find a boutique hotel that’s larger than a hotel that’s part of a chain.  It’s antithetical to the concept of the boutique hotel.  And although we live in a world that venerates the large, when it comes to accommodations, smaller can definitely mean better.  Above and beyond more personalized service, the Roatan boutique resort is able to create a more calm and easy going environment.  Resource By:

https://www.prlog.org/12746448-why-choose-roatan-boutique-resort.html

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Why Go Scuba Diving In Roatan

For people looking to scuba dive in North America, a lot of attention is focused on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef system in the world. And for good reason. This reef system straddles four countries (Mexico, Honduras, Belize, and Guatemala) and provides some of the best scuba diving in the world. When I finally decided on my diving destination, a friend asked, “Why to go scuba diving in Roatan?” The fact is, my research gave me several reasons for my choice. This article goes over the top five.

Affordability

Honduras in general and Roatan, in particular, has some of the most affordable diving packages in the world. And certain accommodations, such as the Blue Bahia boutique resort, where I booked myself for 2 weeks, offers a further discount when booking diving trips through their onsite dive shop. This has allowed me to spend more time away and get more dives in without breaking the bank.

Reef Proximity

As opposed to some of the other countries on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, there are areas of Roatan where it’s actually possible to swim to the reef. No need for a lengthy and costly boat ride. In certain areas, the reef is less than 200 yards away from land.

Reef Health

Because of governmental programs and the efforts of non-profit groups such as the Roatan Marine Park, Roatan ranks at the top of the list of when it comes to healthy fish populations and coral beds. Diver’s are guaranteed to see some of the healthiest marine populations in the world when diving off the coast of Roatan.

Dive Sites

Roatan boasts over 175 distinct dive sites. And with the island being less than 50 miles long and 5 miles wide, all these sites are quite easily accessible. The sites feature a wide range of topographical features from caves and canyons to large walls and coral beds. There are several wrecks available for exploration and a healthy marine life population that even includes whale sharks. If nothing else, a diver in Roatan won’t run out of sites to explore.

Conditions

Roatan is also known to have quite calm conditions and excellent underwater visibility. The surface waters are typically flat year round and the underwater currents are quite manageable. Also, the fact that the island is so small, if conditions on one side are too rough, chances are that relocating to the other side will result in calm waters and a successful day.

Resource By: https://www.prlog.org/12742026-why-go-scuba-diving-in-roatan-bluebahia.html

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What to Drink in Roatan

When one thinks of relaxing in a hammock on a remote island, having a tropical drink in hand is almost always a part of the fantasy.  It seems that every tropical island has its own special drink and Roatan, off the north coast of Honduras, is no exception.  The fruity drink of choice on Roatan is known as the Monkey Lala.

Named after a local lizard that can be seen running around the island on its hind legs, the Monkey Lala lizard is more scientifically known as the Basilisk.  Another name for the Basilisk is the Jesus Lizard due to its ability to run short distances over water. Drinking too many Monkey Lalas may have you believing you can also walk on water!  The alcoholic version of this drink is one that can be quite deceptive. It’s a very sweet drink, but carries a strong alcoholic wallop. The ingredient list tells the story about how the Monkey Lala can be so subtle yet so intoxicating.  Although the recipe will vary with every bartender across the island, it will typically include ice, Kahlua, Bailey’s, rum, vodka, coconut cream, banana, chocolate syrup and pineapple juice.  Extreme caution is needed if you plan on drinking more than one! Beer If you don’t like the idea of drinking what amounts to an injection of sugar and alcohol, there are a handful of local beers.  They are all brewed by Cerverceria Hondurena on the mainland, but will be found all over the island of Roatan as well. The lager, Salva Vida, is the most popular and has an ABV of 4.8%.  Cerveza Barena is a lager similar to Mexican beers like Corona and is somewhat lighter with an ABV of 4.6%. The third lager is Cerveza Imperial at 5%, whereas the German style pilsner, Port Royal Export, has an ABV of 4.9%. Rum The most popular rum in Honduras is Flor de Cana even though it is distilled by a Nicaraguan company.  Flor de Cana did set up a distillery in Honduras in the early 70s which probably plays a role in its popularity in Honduras. Resource By : https://www.prlog.org/12735431-what-to-drink-in-roatan-bluebahia.html

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Roatan, Honduras: About the Town of Sandy Bay

Sandy Bay is one of Roatan's most established towns. It stretches for some two miles along the northwest coast of Roatan just before West End. Sandy Bay is located west of Coxen Hole off the main road which takes you to West End and West Bay. Sandy Bay is home to several vacation rentals, including the beautiful Blue Bahia resort . It is also home to a large expat community in Roatan. The Blue Tropical Arboretum, the Mud Hole, and Palmetto Bay are all accessible through or near Sandy Bay.

The Colonia, which is also known as "Belfate" is located on a hillside facing north in Sandy Bay. The Colonia is primarily a residential community comprised primarily of locals who have moved here from the mainland. As in much of Roatan, The Colonia has low construction standards and oversight over land rights. This has been an issue in times past which have made it difficult to control sprawl and infrastructures. There are a few expat owned land areas just after The Colonia along a stretch of beachfront.

Mangrove Bight and Gibson Bight are located along this stretch of land just after Sandy Bay and before reaching West End along the northern shore of Roatan. Gibson Bight is a large marina which makes for a nice hangout away from the business of West End.

For those living or thinking about moving to Roatan, it is important to note that the town of Sandy Bay has many of the advantages found in West End. So it is not necessary to travel to far for basic needs like car repair services, restaurants, or gift shops.

INSTITUTE OF MARINE AND SCIENCES

Sandy Bay is also home to the Institute of Marine and Sciences (IMS). More specifically, the IMS is located on the grounds of Anthony's Key Resort (AKR). This is where the island's only hyperbaric chamber resides.

ANTHONY'S KEY RESORT

Anthony's Key Resort is also home to Roatan's Dolphin Habitat. In years past, the dolphin habitat was located just off the main island of Roatan in between Roatan and Anthony's Key. But today, the habitat has been moved and is located on Bailey's Key. Bailey's Key is located just off the shores of Anthony's Key Resort, and it is available via a short water taxi boat ride from the AKR marina. Dolphin encounters are a favorite for visitors to Roatan. At AKR visitors can swim, pet, scuba, feed, and learn about dolphins. There are daily shows and tours available for those looking for a once in a lifetime experience. Dolphin encounters are family friendly experiences and very educational. While Anthony's key is primarily a diver's resort, it has many water activities and a nice restaurant which is open to the public.

ROATAN MUSEUM

Next, to the Institute for Marine and Science, there is a museum containing a variety of exhibits and beautiful artifacts. There is a rich offering of documents and presentations explaining the rich history of Roatan, its culture, and its people.

CARAMBOLA BOTANICAL GARDEN

The Carambola Botanical Gardens are located just across from Anthony's Key Resort. This garden has many well-maintained trails with lush orchids which bloom throughout the year.

MEDICAL CLINICS IN SANDY BAY

Sandy Bay is home to a few medical clinics. Clinica Esperanza which is also known by locals as "Nurse Peggy's Clinic" is arguably it's most popular. Anthony's Key Resort also has a clinic of its own. The two clinics are located only a few yards apart along the main Sandy Bay road.

LAWSON ROCK

Lawson Rock is located just after Sandy Bay as you travel west from Coxen Hole. Lawson Rock is located on both sides of the main road. Without a doubt, Lawson Rock is one of (or the) most luxurious communities on Roatan. Lawson Rock has hillside home on one side of the main road and several waterfront properties on the other side of the main paved road.

Resource By :

https://www.prlog.org/12731051-roatan-honduras-about-the-town-of-sandy-bay.html

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Things to do while staying at Roatan, Honduras resorts

If you’re lucky enough to stay in one of the many Roatan Honduras resorts, you’ll never have a lack of things to do.  Although the island’s perfect weather and beautiful views make it an ideal place to have a relaxing vacation, it also offers a wide range of activities to meet the needs of the most adventurous traveller.  Read this article to find out about some of the best things to do in Roatan.

Scuba Diving

Roatan is known for some of the best and cheapest scuba diving anywhere in the world.  Adjacent to the world’s second largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef affords visitors to Roatan a spectacular opportunity to dive in some of the richest ocean waters on the planet.  The fact that lessons are so economical means that many beginners earn their diving certification in Roatan. With over 100 diving locations around the island, Roatan also attracts legions of expert divers.

Snorkeling

For those who would rather stay closer to the ocean’s surface, Roatan’s proximity to the barrier reef means that snorkelers are also able to experience all the beauty and ocean life provided by the reef system.  In places such as Half Moon Bay and West Bay Beach, the reef is a short swim away.

Fishing

Roatan has a great abundance of fishing outfitters.  Whether you’re looking for the larger game fish such as marlin or just a little something to fry up for dinner, Roatan’s productive waters means you’ll rarely go home empty handed.  

Zip Lining

There’s been quite a proliferation of zip lining operations around Roatan.  With plenty of tall trees, larges swathes of lush jungle and great views of the ocean there’s little wonder this activity has become so popular.  

Spa Treatments

With so many Roatan Honduras resorts dotted around the island, there’s a lot of demand for spa treatments such as massages, facials and other bodywork.  This demand has drawn a large community of experienced professionals to the island to ply their trade. Take advantage of this concentration and book yourself a spa day.

Resource By : https://www.prlog.org/12725904-things-to-do-while-staying-at-roatan-honduras-resorts.html

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Roatan Barrier Reef Facts

The Roatan Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world.  Also known as the Jewel Of The Caribbean, the reef system runs for over 600 miles along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is home to over 60 species of coral, 350 species of mollusks and 500 species of fish.  Many endangered species call the reef system home, including several species of sea turtles, some coral species and some species of crocodile.

The sea manatee population of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the largest known throughout the world’s oceans.  Although they numbered in the low hundreds in the 1970s, their population is now estimated as high as 1500. Although no longer considered endangered, they are still listed as threatened.

Another sea mammal that calls the barrier reef areas home is the dolphin.  Popular species found around the reef system include the bottlenose, the rough-toothed and the spotted dolphins.

The world’s largest fish, the whale shark, inhabits the reef area around the Honduran Bay Island of Utila during the feeding season.  The whale shark is attracted by blooms of plankton and krill as well small fish and crabs.

Coral, which comprises the backbone of the reef system, is under threat due to bleaching which is thought to be caused by warming waters and runoff from coastal development.

Mangrove trees play a crucial role in protecting the ability of coral to grow.  The tree roots reduce the size of harmful waves, protect the coral from shore run off and shelter eggs of fish and other sea life.

Sea grasses play a similar role to mangrove trees by filtering the water, trapping silt and preventing seabed erosion.  Parrotfish also improve growing conditions for coral by eating algae which inhibits the free growth of coral.

Lionfish, on the other hand, have been found to be harmful to the coral beds.  This invasive species from the Indo-Pacific prey upon fish and other organisms which promote coral growth.

The Mesoamerican Reef, including the Roatan Barrier Reef, was put on the UNESCO List Of World Heritage In Danger in 2009.  It’s thought that coastal development, offshore oil drilling and mangrove deforestation were prime causes.  Many of the countries dependent on the reef system for fishing and tourism have been working on plans to reverse this damage and the reef is currently not on the list.

Resource By :

https://www.prlog.org/12722209-roatan-barrier-reef-facts-bluebahia.html

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Roatan, Honduras Resorts | West End vs West Bay

It’s very easy to get mixed up with the names West End and West Bay on the island of Roatan. However, make no mistake about it, they are two very different places! So if you’re planning on meeting up with friends, make sure you’re sure whether it’s West End or West Bay or you may have a tough time finding each other.

Simply put, West Bay is known for its beach and Roatan, Honduras resorts, whereas West End is known for its village and small hotels. They’re about a 10 minute drive away from each other, or a similar amount of time if you take a water taxi. West End is closer to the cruise ship terminals, whereas West Bay is at the tip of the island.

West End Village

West End Village is a mile long strip of road that’s dotted with small hotels, convenience stores, dive shops, souvenir stores, bars, lounges and restaurants. The area has a bohemian vibe and really lights up at night time. If you’re looking for nightlife, West End is where it’s at. West End is also home to the palm tree lined Half Moon Bay, so named because of it crescent shape. There are dozens of piers reaching out into the ocean that allow boats and water taxis to transport divers, fishers or people moving to other points on the island.

West Bay Beach

West Bay Beach is home to most of the major Roatan, Honduras resorts and one of the most popular beaches on the island. The sand is white and the waters are clear. Because the reef is an easy swim away, the beach is also very popular among snorkelers and beginning divers. The nightlife is much more relaxed than West End, so if you’re looking to go out for a nice dinner followed by a relaxing evening with your family, West Bay should be exactly what you’re looking for.

Which Is Better?

The honest answer is that one isn’t better than the other. It all depends on what you’re looking for. And the fact that they’re a quick taxi ride away from each other means that you don’t necessarily have to choose between one or the other — you can have both!

Resource By : https://www.prlog.org/12715948-roatan-honduras-resorts-west-end-vs-west-bay.html