When it comes to any type of vacation, the one immutable rule is that there must be at least a modicum of planning involved. Even if it’s only pointing your finger at a map while blindfolded, you’re still planning. But each type of vacation requires a different type of planning. Whether you’re headed on a winter snowboarding trip, an African safari or a mountain climbing expedition, the planning approach will be different. The same goes for a beach holiday in Roatan. To help you out with some things you might not read elsewhere, we’ve put together a list of Roatan vacation planning tips.
Bring Sunscreen And Bug Spray
Even if you’re an intrepid traveler who only flies carry-on, make sure to bring your own sunscreen and bug spray. The problem with not bringing your own is that you’ll very likely pay a steep premium if you wait until you reach the beach. You also don’t want to be caught between disembarkation and check-in without at least a bit of emergency protection. You’re probably already planning for plenty of sun, but you should also know that Roatan sand flies can be troublesome. Rather than waiting to get bitten to find out, come armed with full protection! But if you are bitten, Claritin,can reduce your reaction to their bite. You will likely, sleep better.
Full-On Or Low Key?
Where you stay in Roatan will play a large role in the type of vacation you’ll experience. If you’re looking to hit all the top restaurants, bars and beaches, you’ll want to be on the island’s west side. West End and West Bay are the two most popular tourist destinations and have all the visitor amenities you could wish for – as well as some of the world’s top-rated beaches and dive sites. However, things can get a bit hectic on weekends or when the cruise ship day trippers arrive. If that all sounds like a nightmare for your vacation style, make sure your choice of lodgings is a private location. Some vacation homes in West Bay (on the South side) are close to the best white sand beaches and have the constant breezes that keep the bugs in check. The South side of West Bay is close to the best beaches, without being in the target area the cruise shippers look for (the North side beaches). The East End is off the beaten track more rustic, and can be more relaxed and quiet. Tourism infrastructure still exists, but you’ll be far from the crowds. Expect deserted white sand beaches, laidback locals and small pockets of expat communities. Choosing your lodging’s location could make a significant difference in your Roatan vacation.
Bring Snorkeling Gear
If you have the luggage space and you plan on snorkeling, (pro tip: if you’re not a scuba diver, you’ll definitely want to be snorkeling off the coast of Roatan. The reef is within swimming distance away in many places and the marine life will definitely keep you coming back!) it’ll pay off to bring your own gear, at least the mask and snorkel. Since the fit here is so important. Sure, you can always rent or buy after you arrive, but again, you’ll pay a premium for the convenience. And you might not get the same kind of fit that you already have with your own set-up. Save yourself some time, money and disappointment by bringing your own snorkeling gear.
Dine On Lionfish
If you have the least bit of awareness about the fragility of the ocean’s reef systems, you’ll want to do your part by dining on lionfish every time you crave seafood. Lionfish is an invasive species that’s been causing havoc in the Caribbean since the mid-1990s. Their invasion is widely recognized as the most serious threat to the coral reef habitats of the Caribbean. There has been a concentrated effort to popularize the consumption of lionfish to help rectify the problem. Its flaky, white flesh has been said to taste similar to grouper or mahi mahi and works in most fish dishes including sashimi, fish and chips, ceviche and more. As the reef conservation slogan goes, “Eat ‘em to beat ‘em!”