Beaches instead of Bananas

A December 1997 trip to Tela by Chukar Tales

Approximately 90 years ago, Honduras became the largest banana exporter in the world and the sleepy, quiet town of Tela became the banana port. Today, the town still has the charm of clapboard houses built on stitlts but people now come for the beaches instead of the bananas.

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Slowly, this small coastal town is becoming an important beach destination and now is the time to visit and see beaches that are virtually untouched. No big chain hotels exist and the small town atmosphere still survives. The original banana residential compound has been restored into the nices resort in town. But there are many inexpensive hotels available in town. Beaches are not the only object that draws tourists.

The Bay of Tela is located between the Jeanette Kawas National Park and the Punta Izopo Wildlife Refuge which is home to many tropical birds such as toucans and parrots, and where the endangered sea manatees and white-faced monkeys make their last stand against civilization. Lancetilla Botanical Gardens is located in Tela and is the largest botanical garden in the world. Garifuna villagers of Miami welcome strangers to their village. They still choose to live in grass houses without electricity, keeping their own language, religion, and traditions in tact.

Quick Tips:

Best Way To Get Around:

Visitors can fly into San Pedro Sula and rent a car and drive to Tela. Most of the highways in Honduras are in good shape with some still being worked on after Hurricane Mitch. Four-wheel drive is a must during the rainy season. Those who are on a budget can take a bus to Tela from San Pedro Sula

About the Writer

Chukar Tales
Chukar Tales
Cazadero, California
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