There are many hills and unpaved roads in Roatan. I suggest keeping this in mind when picking your accommodations. We were at the very end of an unpaved neighborhood road at the very top of the hill. It was at least a 15 minute walk down to town and 20 coming back up.

Day 1

During our delightful four-day escapade, my best friend and I embarked on a thrilling journey to Roatan, Honduras, choosing Airbnb as our home away from home. Opting for a cost-effective travel option, I flew with American Airlines from Dallas to Roatan, a decision motivated by the considerably lower fares compared to flights departing from Houston.

The adventure began on the first day as we touched down in Roatan at 2:45 PM. Swiftly arranging transportation, we made our way to the chosen Airbnb nestled in the picturesque West Bay area of Roatan. The anticipation of the unknown added an extra layer of excitement as we eagerly embarked on this island getaway.

Our first evening set the stage for memorable experiences. With the sun casting its warm hues upon the vibrant landscape, we decided to explore the local culinary scene. A short stroll led us to The Meridian Hotel, where we indulged in a delightful dinner. The ambiance was enchanting, and the menu promised a culinary journey worth savoring. Opting for shrimp tacos accompanied by a generous serving of rice and beans, I was pleasantly surprised by the burst of flavors that tingled my taste buds. Each bite was a fusion of freshness and authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on my palate.

The following days unfolded with a myriad of adventures. Roatan, with its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life, provided the perfect backdrop for snorkeling and exploring vibrant coral reefs. We spent lazy afternoons basking in the sun-kissed beaches, immersing ourselves in the tranquil rhythm of island life. The Airbnb, a charming abode tucked away in a serene corner, offered respite and comfort after our daily excursions.

Day 2

Day two of my Roatan adventure kicked off with the thrill of I Heart ATV Roatan. The adrenaline rush of riding dune buggies through the mud was next-level excitement, and at $85 per person USD, it was totally worth it. The wind in my hair and the splatter of mud on my face – a perfect start to the day!

Post-ATV adventure, we decided to refuel at Bojangles for lunch. The place had its own charm, and the food was just what we needed after an action-packed morning. Energized and ready for more exploration, our next stop was the Roatan Rum Factory. This spot wasn’t just about rum; it was a treasure trove of island goodies. From rum cakes to cigars soaked in the finest spirits, it was a unique shopping experience. Of course, I couldn’t resist bringing back a few of those special cigars to the US – a taste of Roatan to enjoy later.

Back at the Airbnb, a quick cleanup and a power nap recharged us for the evening. Dinner was on the agenda, and we chose Naboo Restaurant. The ambiance was welcoming, and the service matched the warmth. What surprised me the most was the affordability considering the quality and quantity of the food. I opted for an entree that boasted a delightful mix of snapper, shrimp, lobster, mashed potatoes, and mixed veggies. Each bite was a burst of flavor, making it a dining experience to remember.

Beyond the gastronomic delights, the hotel itself added to the overall experience. The pool beckoned, its shimmering waters tempting us for a late-night dip. The aesthetic appeal of the place was evident, and it resonated well with the vibe of the island. As the night unfolded, the allure of Naboo Restaurant and its surroundings lingered, leaving me eager for what Roatan had in store for the next day.

Day 3

Day three of our incredible journey brought us to the enchanting Punta Gorda, a destination steeped in history and brimming with natural wonders. As a travel influencer, I was eager to uncover the layers of this hidden gem and share its story with my audience.

Punta Gorda, with its name translating to “Fat Point,” has a history as rich and diverse as its name suggests. Originally settled by the indigenous Calusa people, the area later became a crucial hub for trade and exploration during the early colonial period. Its strategic location along the Gulf Coast attracted explorers and settlers, shaping the town into the unique blend of cultures and influences that we see today.

Our day began with a journey through time as we delved into the historical origins of Punta Gorda. From the remnants of Calusa artifacts to the echoes of colonial architecture, every step was a testament to the town’s captivating past. The blend of native heritage and colonial influence painted a vivid picture of Punta Gorda’s evolution, making it a destination that transcends mere beauty and becomes a living narrative.

Eager to embrace the natural wonders surrounding Punta Gorda, we embarked on a mesmerizing tour of the mangroves. The intricate network of mangrove forests not only showcased the ecological diversity of the region but also highlighted the importance of conservation. Our hearts swelled with appreciation as we witnessed the delicate balance of nature, and the efforts taken to preserve it through dedicated conservation initiatives.

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow as we made our way to a turtle conservation center, where our souls connected with the plight of these majestic creatures. Engaging with the passionate individuals behind the conservation efforts, we learned about the challenges faced by sea turtles and the ongoing commitment to their protection. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of our responsibility to tread lightly on this planet.

Refueled by the day’s explorations, we sought culinary delight at Wagudan Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Punta Gorda, this culinary gem offered a symphony of flavors, with seafood taking center stage. Fresh, well-seasoned, and impeccably prepared, each dish was a celebration of the region’s maritime bounty. Our taste buds danced with joy, leaving us savoring the essence of Punta Gorda in every bite.

Despite being satiated from our delectable lunch, the allure of exploration persisted. Opting for a more relaxed evening, we decided on drinks and light bites at the Kimpton Grand Roatan. The ambiance of Vos Café & Bar welcomed us with open arms, providing the perfect backdrop for a laid-back yet indulgent experience. Our evening unfolded with shared moments over a tempting spread – a burger, fries, appetizers, and the joyous clinking of glasses.

As the night deepened, we indulged our sweet tooth with delectable desserts at the Kimpton Grand Roatan, each bite a decadent finale to our day of discovery. The blend of flavors and the camaraderie shared around the table encapsulated the essence of travel – the exploration of both places and palates, the connection with history and nature, and the bonds forged through shared experiences.

Punta Gorda, with its layers of history, conservation efforts, and culinary delights, had woven itself into the tapestry of our journey. Each moment, a brushstroke painting a vivid memory that would linger long after we bid farewell to this captivating destination.

Day 4

Basking in the sun-soaked haven of our Airbnb, Day four unfolded like a page from a traveler’s dream journal. The backdrop was painted with hues of azure, and the gentle hum of the poolside breeze orchestrated a symphony of relaxation. Picture-perfect moments were captured effortlessly, immortalizing the essence of our retreat.

As the clock struck noon, our chariot to the clouds arrived, a testament to the seamless choreography of our well-planned escapade. Departure loomed, but not before savoring the final sips of serenity in this idyllic paradise. En route to the airport, the landscape unfurled like a grand tapestry, each mile an ode to the destination’s allure.

Dallas beckoned, and our journey homeward commenced with a departure from the tiny airport. Nestled within the embrace of nature’s grandeur, the departure lounge stood as a minimalist haven, devoid of the bustling commercialism found in larger counterparts. This wasn’t just an airport; it was a gateway, an intimate rendezvous point where tranquility met the thrill of exploration.

A word to the wise traveler: anticipate the compact size of this aviation hub. Small, yet brimming with character, it unfolded its wings as our ticket to the skies. Duty-free aficionados, however, might find their desires grounded; there’s none in sight as you bid adieu to this serene sanctuary. But fret not, for what it lacks in shopping extravagance, it compensates with an authentic air travel experience.

As we ventured into the departure lounge, culinary options beckoned. A lone bar, a culinary oasis, awaited us, promising libations to toast our unforgettable sojourn. Adjacent, a modest sandwich shop stood ready to appease any lingering gustatory cravings. This wasn’t about extravagant meals; it was about savoring the simplicity of flavors, a culinary ode to the locale’s unassuming charm.

With every passing minute, the airport unveiled its charm, a microcosm of hospitality amid departure gates. Stripped of excess, it fostered an environment where connections weren’t just flight routes but shared moments etched into the memory bank of our travel chronicles. The departing sun cast its golden glow on fellow voyagers, each with tales of exploration and discovery.

Our flight back to Dallas at three pm became the next chapter in our adventure. The minimalist airport, despite its diminutive size, served as the prelude to the grand crescendo of our travel chronicle. And as the wheels left the runway, we carried with us not just the tangible souvenirs but a tapestry of moments—sun-soaked afternoons, poolside serenity, and the subtle magic of a small airport that spoke volumes about the beauty of unpretentious travel.

Our final day arrived all too soon, marked by a mixture of nostalgia and gratitude. Reflecting on the adventure, we realized that our choice of American Airlines and the Airbnb in West Bay Roatan had set the stage for an unforgettable journey. From the delectable shrimp tacos at The Meridian Hotel to the sunsets at scenic viewpoints, each moment contributed to a tapestry of memories that we would carry with us.

Transportation: We used the below company for transportation, the SUV was clean and the rides were perfect. If you are seeking a tour guide per se this isn’t the service I would recommend. We didn’t get much history or recommendations as far as local restaurants, however we got back and forth safe and they were very much on time.

In sharing this travel chronicle, my hope is to inspire fellow wanderers to explore the hidden gems that await in destinations less traveled. The world is a vast canvas, and every journey, whether short or long, adds vibrant strokes to the masterpiece of our lives. Roatan, with its enchanting beauty and warm hospitality, undoubtedly left an indelible impression on our hearts, a testament to the magic that unfolds when we embrace the spirit of exploration.

Have you all been to Roatan, Honduras, if so comment and let me know what activities you enjoyed there? Any future travelers to Roatan, let me know if this helped you add to your itinerary in the comments.

As our journey unfolded, Roatan revealed itself as more than just an island destination; it became a tapestry woven with the threads of adventure, friendship, and gastronomic bliss. Stay tuned for more tales from this tropical haven as I, Elle, your 30-something, plus-size black travel creator, continue to share the vibrant rhythms of Roatan with the world. Each chapter unfolds with the promise of new discoveries and the echoes of the island’s captivating allure.

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