Roatan

The largest of the Bay Islands, Roatan is one of the most popular of the islands that lie along the Caribbean coast. Only 30 nautical miles off the coast of Honduras lies this world unto itself. Hard work by concerned islanders has made this jewel into a mecca for travelers while ensuring the protection of their natural resources. The reef system that surrounds the islands is part of the second largest in the world. It possesses a wealth of marine life. The Sandy Bay-West End Marine Park offers excellent snorkeling and dive sites. It begins on the East Side's Lawson Rock and extends down the entire coast to Key Hole. It offers hours of exploration. Respect the rules set by the island authorities regarding activities within the park.

If you want to stay on the dry side, you can take a ride in the glass-bottom boat. Handy field guides on board give you the edge in identifying the myriad of colorful fish you will see.

For a unique experience, take the dolphin snorkel. After an informative 15-minute hands-on session with the dolphin and one of his trainers, you hit the water! You're free to swim, dive and enjoy being so close to these incredibly complex creatures. The visual experience alone is enough to last a lifetime.

There are several choice places to visit on the island where you can be in the middle of lush tropical forest replete with exotic flora and fauna. The monkey lala, or basilisk lizard, known for running upright on its hind legs is abundant and quite surprising. Flocks of parrots cross the blue sky in search of a new community perch while you make your way through Carambola Botanical Gardens. An excellent place to see exotic flora in its natural surroundings, as well as catch sight of more than a few birds. The Tropical Treasures Bird Park is a way to see a variety of macaws and parrots, some found only in Honduras.