The mighty rivers, lush mountains, Maya archaeological sites and Mesoamerican Barrier Reef scattered across Honduras beckon adventurous travelers from across the globe.
04.01.2024 - 15:56 / lonelyplanet.com
Honduras is a treasure trove for families drawn to the wonders of the natural world and the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
Its diverse ecosystems, from flourishing coral reefs to verdant rainforests, provide a living classroom for every age group. The string of incredible beaches along 400 miles of Caribbean coastline and its blend of culture and nature-focused fun activities make Honduras an incredible destination for a family vacation.
Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, Honduras is the second-largest country in Central America and one of the least visited, making it a fitting choice for families seeking uncommon adventures beyond the beaten path.
The capital city, Tegucigalpa, has shopping complexes like City Mall with dedicated play areas for kids and leafy parks such as Parque Central where your tiny travelers can play in the fresh air.
The country's adoration for children is evidenced by museums like Chiminike, an interactive kid's museum in Tegucigalpa (mostly called 'Tegus" by its residents).
Honduras is a playground for kids to exercise their curious minds and the curriculum includes high-octane land and sea activities. The country's national parks, such as Parque Nacional La Tigra, are gateways to understanding tropical ecosystems.
Visits to the likes of Copán Ruinas archaeological site or Fortaleza Santa Bárbara de Trujillo help bridge the past and present for budding historians, and there are incredible snorkeling and beach activities to help the whole family learn about biodiversity.
Honduras is generally less expensive than other tourist destinations in the region, offering budget-friendly accommodations and entertaining activities – a significant plus for large families.
When traveling with kids in Honduras, a stopover in Roatán is an absolute must. This 40-mile-long island (one of the three main Bay Islands) has a fascinating pirate history and pirate-themed hangouts (indulge in seafood treasures at Booty Bar).
You can take your nearest and dearest to mingle with furry friends at Daniel Johnson's Monkey and Sloth Hangout, a family-run animal sanctuary, or on mangrove tours around charming fishing villages.
Parents with would-be marine biologists in the family should investigate the island's coral reefs, which are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Little ones yet to perfect their backstroke can glimpse below the surface (and stay dry) during a thrilling semi-submarine glass bottom boat tour, bookable with Hyde Tours.
Those wishing to steer their own sunken ships can reserve an underwater bicycle from BOSS Underwater Adventures. Roatan also boasts a range of family-friendly accommodations that cater to various needs and preferences.
Splash Inn Dive Resort has larger family
The mighty rivers, lush mountains, Maya archaeological sites and Mesoamerican Barrier Reef scattered across Honduras beckon adventurous travelers from across the globe.
Nestled between Spain and the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a compact country that you could fit into a two-week road trip.
Frequent Eurocity trains dash north from Milan via the Simplon Tunnel to Switzerland. On the way to the tunnel, those express trains speed by Lake Maggiore, affording fine views of the Borromean Islands. For Switzerland-bound trains, the last station stop in Italy is at the small Piedmont town of Domodossola. The station here is remarkably grand, as befits what was once an important gateway into Italy, with all the paraphernalia of customs and immigration. From Domodossola, it is just another half-hour through the Simplon Tunnel to Brig, an appealing Swiss town that guards the northern end of the Alpine tunnel, before trains head on to Berne, Basel and the north.
Despite traveling fairly frequently, I've never been away from home for Christmas.
Whilst the Argentinian capital is still revered for its impressive number of top-notch parrillas (steakhouses), the food and drink scene in Buenos Aires has boomed over the past decade.
Get ready for a major new option when it comes to cruises from Galveston, Texas.
The biggest cruise ship ever built is finally in position for its first sailings with paying passengers.
MSC Cruises is expanding its presence in the United States, planning to bring one of its newest ships to its homeport in Texas next year.
I spent seven days on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady in November for $931, which comes to $133 a day.
A warm, subtropical climate makes Honduras an ideal year-round destination so the best time to visit depends on what you want to do when you arrive.
Jungle-clad Maya ruins, centuries-old villages with lovely cobbled streets, white-sand beaches and world-class diving along the world’s second-largest barrier reef – Honduras has it all, in spades.
Many civilizations have left their mark on Seville.