Honduras, how I miss you already. I got back from a 12 day vacation about a week ago.
I landed in SPS and made my way out to Copan via Casasola Express (110 lempiras). I spent 2 nights in Copan and then double backed to Utila (Hedman Alas, $31 full cama). I didn't know about it prior to the trip but I happened to catch Sunjam, the annual rave/techno party in Utila. After diving (Utila Dive Center, stayed at Cross Creek) and exploring Utila for about a week, I headed out to La Ceiba for white water rafting (Jungle River Lodge). There I spent a night at the lodge and the next day made my way to Roatan. I stayed at Valerie's (really as run down as they say in LP) for a couple of nights and flew back home.
There's a big backpacker scene in Central America and if that's what you're looking for, you're bound to find it in Honduras, especially Utila. Copan Ruins were pretty cool although you don't need more than a day. The diving is great, some of the cheapest in the world although personally I thought Thailand was better. La Ceiba is a shithole and I wouldn't recommend staying there but the night at the Jungle River Lodge was one of my favorites.
There's a lot of discussion of Roatan vs. Utila and it truly depends on what you're looking for. Utila there's literally no beaches. Big party scene, younger crowd. Roatan is a lot more chilled (Sat. night was fairly mellow, Sun. night was dead) but had the beaches that you could actually lie on.
Only things that were annoying were the sand flies/mosquitoes. They ate me alive despite me packing 25% DEET. The inescapable heat and humidity can also get to you but you kind of go in knowing that. I didn't experience any crime or felt threatened any time, probably because I stayed out of big cities like SPS and Tegus. People in general were very helpful, many spoke English (nearly everyone on the islands) and the food was excellent (balliadas anyone?).
Transportation is very solid in Honduras. Very easy to get around and there are nicely paved roads, reliable bus systems and the ferries are top notch. Overall very satisfied.
If you're interested in reading more, I've written up several blog posts and will be adding more in the coming days/weeks.
Damn it Feels Good to Be Back in Latin America
First Impressions of Honduras
Mayan Ruins, Irish Backpackers and Late Night Chicken
If you have any particular questions, please feel free to ask.
