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Bay Islands, Honduras

Pawel Jaworski

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These islands off the Caribbean coast are one of Honduras' primary tourism areas. They're popular with divers, snorkelers and anglers because of the extensive barrier reef that lies near the islands. While they were squarely in the path of Hurricane Mitch, some of the Bay Islands escaped extensive damage. Others that were struck have rebuilt quickly. Nearly all tourism facilities have resumed operation.

The islands have a distinctive culture. Among the settlers were Cayman Islanders of British descent (both English and Spanish are spoken). The Garifuna or Black Caribs - descendants of Carib Indians and escaped African slaves - have a long history there as well, though many have moved to villages on the north coast of the mainland. If you get the chance to see a Garifuna traditional dance, it is well worth the time. In recent years, more and more mainland Hondurans have gone to the Bay Islands to find work, which is making the area less distinctive than it used to be.

The majority of the 70-odd islands in the archipelago are uninhabited. The main inhabited islands are Roatan, Guanaja and Utila, all of which have dive-oriented resorts that rent scuba equipment and arrange for boat excursions. Expect basic but comfortable and well-run accommodations at these resorts. Some have satellite TV, swimming pools and air conditioning. In addition, some homes on the islands of Roatan and Utila can be rented by visitors. Live-aboard dive boats anchor off Roatan. Combination sailing and beach vacations also can be arranged.

Light-tackle fishing is becoming more popular in the islands, especially bonefishing on the flats around Guanaja and Utila, where it's also possible to hook permit, tarpon and snook. Deep-sea fishing charters are available from all three islands. Tuna, barracuda, sharks, blue and white marlin and sailfish can be found year-round. September-January, trophy wahoo, mahimahi, kingfish, grouper and red snapper are in the waters. Whatever you're doing or pursuing, take along plenty of repellent for mosquitoes and sand flies. (A thick application of oil - coconut, baby or vegetable - is said to be the best repellent for sand flies. Be advised, though, that this can increase the risk of sunburn, so it's best to cover the oil with clothing and a hat.)