Honduras has had a rocky history and it’s a place where, in certain parts, travellers still need to err on the side of caution.
That doesn’t mean the country is off-limits though. In fact, done the right way, there are some incredible experiences awaiting you in Honduras. Just use same caution you would when touring Mexico, for example, and get ready to experience the rich culture and beautiful landscapes of this Central American country.
Here are 10 facts about Honduras.
1. They’re serious about soccer (or football)
Honduras had a 100-hour war with El Salvador. Over soccer. There may have been some other economic stuff going as well, but the important thing to remember is soccer.
RELATED: 5 REASONS WHY VISITING CENTRAL AMERICA ON A GROUP TOUR WAS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR ME
2. You can explore incredible Maya ruins
Copan is the site of an ancient Maya city, located in Western Honduras. It was one of the most densely populated urban areas of the Maya world between AD 426 to 820.
Image by Rafal Cichawa / Shutterstock
3. What does Honduras mean?
The name translates to “great depths” in Spanish – named by Christopher Columbus after the deep waters along the coast.
4. The coral reefs are out of this world
Honduras is part of the second largest coral reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef.
Image by Tracey Ellis
5. Honduras has a dual capital
The capital is actually two cities: Comayaguela and Tegucigalpa.
6. Ever wondered why Honduras was referred to as a banana republic?
Image by Renee Vititoe / Shutterstock
In actual fact, this term was first used by the American writer O. Henry in the early twentieth century to describe the country’s over reliance on banana exports and unstable economy. These days, Honduras is working hard to make a new name for itself.
7. Smoke-free zones
Honduras was the first country to ban smoking in your own home. Smokers must always stand about two metres (six feet) away from non-smokers.
Image by April Wong
8. The buses seriously stand out
Local buses are called Chicken buses. They’re brightly painted and look like a party on wheels. You’re unlikely to see chickens on these buses.
9. It’s home to one of the oldest clocks in the world
The clock was built around 1100 AD by the Moors and was originally placed in the Alhambra Palace, in Granada, Spain. It’s travelled a long way to sit in the Cathedral of Comayagua.
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10. They have some amazing bird life
In fact, the national bird of Honduras is the Scarlet Macaw.
Got a hankering for Honduras? Explore it now on a small group adventure with Intrepid.
Feature image by Steve Mortimer
