Tips for an Enjoyable Trip to Roatan

While planning your trip to Roatan there are many things to consider depending on what it is you hope to achieve during your stay but there are a few constants that apply to just about everyone.

1. Keep it very casual. Shorts, t-shirts, light comfy clothing is the norm.

2. Dress? Re read #1 on this page, I am not kidding, pack light. If traveling during rainy season maybe bring a fold up umbrella. Those that chill easily might want to pack a sweater or sweatshirt for those "cool" evenings.

3. Shoes? Shoes should be comfortable and able to tackle the occasional mud puddle or dirty dusty road. No need for the heels or dress shoes. Dive booties are handy as well as hiking shoes if you plan to tackle the trails.

4. Bug repellant? While many people have different opinions on this I prefer to use products with deet. One constant with the Bay Islands is that we have our share of mosquitoes and sand flies. I suggest you bring it, if you decide not to use it you can donate it to a local friend who will definitely appreciate it.

5. If you are staying in Palmetto Bay Plantation we recommend renting a 4 wheel drive unless you are here to just sit on the beach, dive and eat at the Palmetto restaurant . Palmetto Bay Plantation is 5 miles off the main paved highway on either of 2 dirt roads that are rarely maintained. Cecilia Chamer stated during the general hoa meeting that the government has no plans to improve the road to the nearest grocery stores or restaurants beyond covering the 3 broken culverts.

6. Money? U.S. Dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere you will visit, no need to worry about exchanging for the Honduran Lempira, You will most likely get change in "Lemps" that you can use throughout your stay. Bring smaller denominations to make purchases easier as well as to make tipping easier.

7. Safety? Main rule here is to use common sense. Leave the Rolex and gold at home, don't even bring the fake stuff, no one but the few bad guys will care about it anyway. Don't walk dark secluded places alone, don't flash cash, lock the rental car, lock the house and treat this stay as you would as if staying in any other unfamiliar destination. Chances are you would not walk alone or almost alone down dark alley's in New York, Miami, Vegas, Orlando Etc..., and you should not do it on Roatan either.

8. Health? Roatan has clinics, a Hospital, Recompression chamber and other facilities for those unexpected events yet it is far from what you may be used to. If you are taking prescriptions, pack enough for duration of your stay. Most places are not handicap friendly, over the counter meds are easily available but you may want to bring some basics anyway such as for aches and pains, tummy troubles, decongestants, etc. Malaria is also possible on Roatan, some people take preventatives, some do not. My suggestion here is to speak with your doctor or a doctor knowledgeable in travel medicine.

9. Dive/Snorkel gear? While many places do sell some equipment and many rent it as well, there is no substitute for having your own properly fitted dive/snorkel gear. If nothing else I would bring mask, fins, and snorkel. Open heel fins are nice in that you can wear your booties while getting in and out of the water in areas that may not be feet friendly. Gloves can also be useful for entry and exits. If planning night dives or snorkels then bring your lights.

10. If you have any other questions please feel free to contact us at: info@Palmetto-Bay-Plantation.com as we are full time residents and business owners on the island.