Honduraswith its fantastic Trujillo cheap beach accommodation is without doubt the Caribbean's undiscovered gem.
It offers sandy white beaches, clear blue seas and a fusion of Maya-Lenca, Central American and Caribbean culture.
Mayan Ruins in Copan, world renowned scuba diving in the Bay Islands and growing eco-tourism in Tela are amongst its better known attractions.
Other Caribbean locations can only offer you a beach, Honduras goes beyond this.
With its rich culture, ecological attractions and wildlife, much of which is quintessentially Central American.
One of the best parts of Honduras to visit is the often neglected north coastal region, best represented by developing towns like Trujillo.
Here you will find the strongest mix of Garifuna, Spanish and Maya-Lencan populations.
The Bay of Trujillo offers you miles of un-spoiled beach front, interspersed with established towns and vibrant expanding Garifuna settlements.
This sumptuous mix of cultures is no where better represented than within its food.
Local Spanish food has a definite regional flavor, accented by both Mexican and Tex-Mex influences.
Burritos and enchiladas can be found with Honduran twists, in addition to the uniquely local baleadas, a simple but delicious tortilla based snack.
A local dish anafres can be found with Western additions like North American Cheese and Italian Sausage.
In short, the food is a fusion of flavors and cultural influences.
One of my favorite restaurants on the north coast is The Mystic Restaurant and Bar, which can be found in the relaxed luxury of the Banana Beach resort, situated between Trujillo and Santa Fe.
Heavily influenced by the local Garifuna culture, The Mystic provides some of the best Caribbean Fusion meals in the area.
The local seafood and traditional use of coconut, is combined with Italian pasta and French Bistro influences.
Conch Seviche (a local light sea-food starter recommended to all) can be found on a menu with antipasto and North American vegan options.
A traditional Caesar Salad is given a local bite with fresh shrimps.
The Mystic plays with local recipes; keeping the ever popular and delicious pork but replacing other ingredients with Swiss cheese and prosciutto.
Local dishes have been respected but when complementary European, North American and Asian ingredients have been blended with the local to create a unique dining experience.
Honduras holds a world of possibilities as a vacation destination.
The fact that it is still seriously undiscovered, especially on the north coast has allowed the tourist trade to grow organically, providing you with a far more authentic experience.
It is also provides seriously good value, in Trujillo cheap beach accommodation is still available, even in the higher end market.
Honduras won't stay undiscovered for long, sleepy towns like Trujillo are already marked for development over the next few years, so go visit undiscovered slices of paradise like Banana Beach before the crowds arrive!
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