Currency:

Lempira (HNL)

When to go:

Year round

Known for:

Coffee, gold, bananas, diving

Languages:

Spanish, Amerindian dialects

The second largest city in Central America – Honduras has been an independent country for nearly 200 years. Although it struggled with military rule in the past, the country is now recognized as one of the best-value destinations for tourists.

The capital, Tegucigalpa, sits inland, and is the arrival point for many visitors flying into the country, along with San Pedro Sula and Roatan. Most travelers make their way to Le Ceiba after arrival, which serves as the gateway to the Bay Islands – famous dive areas. Utila and Roatan are the two best-known islands in the chain, and are also snorkel-friendly.

If you have time to travel around this country of 7.5 million people, take the time to check out Copan, home to Mayan ruins, the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve and the mountainous interior. Enjoy a meal of plato tipico – rice, beef, fried beans and fried bananas – or baleadas, tortillas filled with beans, cheese and cream. Wash it down with coffee or one of the national beers – Salvavida, Port Royal, Imperial or Barena.

For souvenirs, Lenca ceramics, handicrafts, silver jewelry and leather items are all popular gifts.

For more information on Honduras, visit the official tourism website at www.honduras.com