Practical information Honduras

Area
43433 sq.mi

Flights
A 16 hr flight.

Jet Lag

Population
7639327 hab.

Airports
The international airport is located approximately 6 miles from the centre of Tegucigalpa. By bus, the ride will last between half an hour and an hour, it will costs you 2 lempiras. By taxi, the ride will take 20 minutes (100 lempiras). The airport tax for departure on international flights is fixed at USD 16..

Security
Around the Comayagüela neighbourhood in Tegucigalpa, it is dangerous to walk alone at night. Honduras is not reputed to be a dangerous country, visitors should still be prudent: Always avoid going out in the street with all of your papers and money on you.

Languages
Spanish is the official language. On the coast, English is also understood. English Creole and Indian dialects are also spoken.

Requirements
European citizens must have a valid passport. No visa is required.

Religion
90% of the population is Catholic and 8% Protestant.

Currency
The Lempira (HNL) is the national currency, but don't forget to bring US Dollars with you as this is the only currency banks are willing to exchange. Commission fees on travellers cheques vary greatly from one outlet to another. It is easy to withdraw cash and pay by credit card in hotels and restaurants, but Visa is more widely accepted than MasterCard. Banks are open from 8:30am to 3:00pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8:30am to 12:00pm on Saturdays.

Local transportation
Domestic flights link the cities of Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Roatán and La Ceiba. A bus network operates in the whole country and it is without a doubt the easiest way to get to the small towns. The only train line is located in the north of the country and crosses the cities of San Pedro and Puerto Cortes. The trip is very slow and the comfort conditions are very limited. The boat is almost the only possible means of transportation between the Bay Islands and the coast, especially in Mosquita where there is only one road to access it. You will find numerous car rental agencies in the cities. It is necessary to bring an international driving license. Hitch-hiking works well in Honduras, especially in the rural areas. Trucks always stop on the sides of the roads to pick up passengers.

Health
No particular vaccine is essential, but it is recommended to follow an anti-malaria treatment. It is also preferable to be vaccinated against typhoid and yellow fever. Only drink bottled water.

Electricity
Voltages is 220 V but also 110 V. An adaptor is necessary.

Flood of tourists

Taxes and tips

Telephone
To call Honduras from the UK, dial 00 + 504 (country code) + the personal number you wish to call.
To call the UK from Honduras, dial 00 + 44 followed by the personal number without the first 0.