Location

• Honduras is a medium-sized country located in Central America. The country is bordered by El Salvador and Nicaragua to the south, Guatemala to the west and to the north by the Caribbean Sea. Honduras is Central America's second largest country at just over 43,000 square miles.
  
  

History

• The history of Honduras dates back to the Mayan Classic Period, when the Mayan city of Copan was an important stronghold in what is now western Honduras. The Mayans flourished in Honduras for approximately 1,000 years until the first arrival of Spanish settlers around 1200.
  
  Spain formed a settlement in present-day Central America in 1504 and occupied the region until the early 1800s, when they granted independence to Honduras and the surrounding countries.
  
  

Culture

• Like the other countries of Central America, Honduran culture is heavily influenced by its former Spanish rulers. The official language is Spanish, although English and other regional dialects are also recognized (although not widely spoken).
  
  Many famous painters, including Jose Antonio Velasquez, have come from Honduras, so the country is understandably enamored with the arts, as well as music.
  
  It is worth noting that Honduras does have a high crime rate compared to most western countries, particularly in the capital, Tegucigalpa, and other large cities. Gang violence is also a problem in some parts of the country.
  
  

Travel

• Honduras has four international airports, with the majority of incoming flights arriving at either Toncontin International Airport in Tegucigalpa or Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport, situated near the coast. The majority of flights into Honduras come from South or North America, so travelers from other parts of the world will need to make connections.
  
  Aerophobic passengers should take note. Toncontin International Airport is known for its difficult approach over mountains, which requires a tight U-turn on final approach before landing on a short runway.
  
  

Things to Do

• Diving in the Gulf of Honduras' clear blue waters is one of the main draws to the country. Day trips to the small island of Roatan in the Caribbean Sea are a haven for divers, with open waters, wreck diving and access to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Other outdoor pursuits, like hiking and sunbathing in the Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas, are a big draw among visitors. Jago de Yojoa is a popular destination in the central part of the country.