OLaurie

Husband, 13yo daughter and I are going to Honduras for about 11 days. Starting with 2 nights in Copan, then 2 undecided nights, then 3 nights at Pico Bonito, and finishing up with 4 nights on Roatan for diving.

Would appreciate first-hand advice on the following:

1) Reliable private transfer from San Pedro Sula to Copan, because our plane gets in too late to make the Hedman Alas bus.

2) Suggestions about what to do with the two undecided nights. Waffling between just adding a day on to each of Copan and Pico Bonito, OR doing something different with those two days.

3) Does anyone know of any truly wonderful handicraft markets? I have no interest in malls or tacky souvenir centers--I dream of a fabulous, authentic market like the one that happens at night in Luang Prabang. If there's such a thing in Honduras, would love to hear about it.

4) If you've read a great book (not travel guide) set in Honduras, would appreciate hearing about that as well.

Thanks, everyone.

hopefulist

A private driver I've enjoyed is Miguel Martel 962-00372 (dial 011-504 first if calling from the US); I've read his email address is [email protected] , though I haven't used it.

I wouldn't add a stop between - too many transition days for a quick trip. As I said on other forums, I'd add the days to Copán - the area is rich with hiking, caving, hot springs, bird park, and other natural wonders in addition to the cute town, surrounding villages, museums, and Maya site. Or maybe 1 to Copán and 1 to Roatán so you can get an extra day of diving in before you have to stop to give enough off gassing time before you international flight.

There are some decent shopping areas in Copán but I've never seen markets in Honduras like you see all over the place in Guatemala - might have to make that your next trip if markets are of interest. They really call to me, part of the reason I return to Guatemala year after year.

Here are 2 books that give a feel for the economy and disenfranchisement of Central Americans, very different but both powerful:

http://www.amazon.com/Enriques-Journ.../dp/0812971787

http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Be-Afraid...dp/006097205X/

Happy trails!

OLaurie

Hopefulist,

Muchas gracias! Very helpful.

Happy trails to you as well.

OLaurie

OLaurie

Have decided to stick around Copan during the extra two days, and have found a private transfer between Copan and Pico Bonito.

Now seeking suggestions for one nice little stop along the way--a great short little hike? A lovely market? A nice little restaurant (veg friendly) for lunch?

Thanks.

hopefulist

Lake Yojoa, Lancetilla, or Omoa?