Now that we have safely returned from Honduras...It's time for the update on what to see and what to avoid in the Bay Islands. What a memorable journey...What to See and Do
DIVE. DIVE. DIVE.
The underwater world along the coral reefs of Utila is astounding. Fish of every color dart through coral crevices and populate the waters. It's amazing. Hypnotize yourself with the constant hum of your regulator as you breath deeply underwater!
Above...my Open Water Dive Partner, Corey...Here she is, becoming part of the live art exhibit at the Jade Seahorse in Utila. The Jade Seahorse is a bizarre hotel/restaurant/bar/mosaic nightmare created by a very nice couple with too much time and too many broken dishes lingering on the property. Corey was delighted when we found this hotel...as for me, I felt like I was trapped in a bad Caribbean version of Alice in Wonderland. Nonetheless, for the eccentric and craft store addicts...the Jade Seahorse is worth a visit. If nothing else, it's a good example of why a person needs more than one hobby.
GO HORSEBACK RIDING
Allow me to introduce you to Thunder, my little caballo with an affinity for speed and danger. The best part of horseback riding in Utila is the unbelievable view from Pumpkin Hill, overlooking the entire island, and that you get to go riding on the airport tarmac. That's right...look both ways! Here we go, horseback riding across the tarmac after a plane lands. Apparently, you are not allowed to ride your horses to the baggage claim without paying a toll. However, you can ride your horse along the tarmac for free.
DIVE MORE.This is the look of an exhausted SCUBA diver. SCUBA diving is not really taxing on the body, until it's over. Unlike running, when you actually see the stopping point as relief from discomfort, when diving...it's complete serenity and joy. The discomfort comes later. One learns to adjust to temporary deafness in one ear (possibly one of the most annoying afflictions!) and constant swaying you feel even on land.
What to AVOID
Super-Human Strength Mosquitos
Does anyone have a recommendation for shampoo, body wash, and laundry soap with DEET? Both Corey and I left Utila with approximately 75 bites between us. The mosquitos on this island bit through jeans...yet another reason to dive more. Mosquitos don't live 60 feet underwater.
Roatan
Unless you enjoy being completely ripped off my overly enterprising retirees, avoid this island. The beach is beautiful, but otherwise...it's a super-expensive version of a bad Florida beach town with terrible food (Think Applebee's quality at Manhattan prices...oh wait, they are building an Applebee's there! WHY?)
The Food
The food in Utila and Roatan was horrible. There is no Honduran cuisine available, mostly fried and unhealthy American foods. Pizza, hamburgers, french fries, chicken fingers...If you can eat junk food for days without complaint, move to the Bay Islands. Otherwise, pack an extra suitcase with Kashi bars and trail mix.
Corey and I are safely settled in Guatemala City now, heading to Antigua tomorrow. Words cannot describe how happy I am to be back in Guatemala, where the people are genuine and the culture is alive. When the presence of tourists, retirees, and cruise ships transforms a beautiful island like Roatan into a complete Caribbean nightmare, I know it's time to remember the importance of individuality. Cultures can, and do, erode because of insensitivity and lack of investment. Roatan is becoming a complete extension of Florida. What's next? A Super WalMart on the beach?
okay, there is lots of catching up i need to do with you. i did not realize until the blog that you were going to scuba dive. when in the world did you get that desire? and i had no idea corey was going to be with you. that is so much fun! and now you're back in guatemala...did not know that either. loved these last two posts. they were great. so should i tell alyson and tom who are going to roatan in february to find a new vacation destination?
ReplyDeletelots of loves to you and corey!!!
noelle