Honduras Travel Alert Canceled
Good news for the Honduras tourism industry (and for travelers): the U.S. Department of State of canceled the Travel Alert for Honduras today, effective immediately. According to the Bureau of Consular Affairs, "the improved security situation in Honduras has removed the immediate threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens in Honduras."
The Travel Alert was initially placed on Honduras on July 24, 2009, due to political instability following the ousting of former Honduras President Manuel Zelaya. A peaceful election took place on Sunday, November 29, with Porfirio Lobo elected president. He will take office on January 27, 2010.
The San Blas Islands in Panama
If you're really looking to travel off the beaten path, consider the San Blas Islands, a remote group of islands located off Panama's Caribbean coast. They're part of Kuna Yala, an autonomous territory inhabited by the Kuna indigenous people. Visitors live a lot like the Kuna: in spartan thatched huts with little or no electricity, dining on whatever the ocean provides each day.
Obviously, staying in the San Blas Islands isn't for the luxury traveler. But if you've always sought that ultimate castaway experience, Kuna Yala is it. Our San Blas Photo Gallery includes photos from our trip to the San Blas Islands, including Kuna villages and our private island accommodations (which sounds pretty swanky, but you'll see what I mean). I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Honduras Goes to the Polls
Honduras has been in political crisis ever since the military forced President Manuel Zelaya from office on June 28, with many countries including the United States) condemning the coup. Today, Honduras heads to the polls, hoping the the international community will recognize the results of this presidential election. The United States is among those who say they will recognize the results, claiming "the clock will be reset after the elections."
As of 9AM PST, early exit polls suggest Conservative candidate and ex-President Porfirio Lobo is ahead.
Dive Destinations in Central America
From Costa Rica's Pacific coast to Belize's Caribbean cayes, Central America is home to an underwater extravaganza of dive sites and ocean dwellers. While master Scuba divers return to the region year after year to face new challenges (and endemic creatures), beginning divers are drawn to the inexpensive PADI dive certification courses, and the chance to behold National Geographic-worthy sights on one's very first dive.
Check out our list of Central America's Best Dive Destinations. Even if you're not dive certified--and not looking to get certified--you can still enjoy Central America's submarine splendor. Where there's great Scuba diving, there's often fantastic snorkeling, and most dive operators also offer snorkeling tours.
Photograph © Utila Dive Centre
Central America Travel Vaccinations
Travel vaccinations aren't any fun - nobody likes getting shots, after all - but getting sick during or after your vacation is much worse than a couple pinpricks. While your chances of contracting an illness during your Central America travels is rare, it's best to be prepared.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website has travel health pages for every country, so make sure to visit long before your Central America travels for updated information. Here, we've collected the recommended vaccinations for travelers in each Central America country:
The Islands of Central America
The second largest barrier reef in the world runs along Central America's Caribbean side, and the warm waters thrive with remarkable marine life. However, the Central America islands on the Pacific side are no less vibrant. While Central America is a melting pot of fascinating cultures, Central America island life is even more unique.
- Discover the best Central America islands!
Now it's your turn to share your favorites with us. Which Central America island is the best?
Photo Copyright Robin Knotts
The Best Beaches in El Salvador
Located on Central America's Pacific Coast, El Salvador's beaches are home to some of Latin America's finest surf breaks. But surfers aren't the only travelers who enjoy the beautiful beaches of El Salvador. The coastline is lined with villages both lively and tranquil; accommodations both luxury and budget; and warm waters perfect swimming as well as surfing.
Now you tell us -- what's your favorite El Salvador beach?
Photo Copyright L.E. MacDonald
The Best Beaches in Costa Rica
Warm waters year-round, an unparalleled tourism infrastructure, and limitless attractions spanning two coasts are the reasons Costa Rica's beaches rank among the best in the world. And since nearly two thirds of Costa Rica's borders are coastline, there are a whole lot of beaches to explore.
When you're done checking out our favorite Costa Rica beaches, let us know which Costa Rice beach is YOUR favorite!
Photo Copyright Stephanie Costa
Central Europe and Central America
Looks like I'll be traveling in Central/Eastern Europe for the first two weeks of November. I'm excited, but already feeling cold in anticipation (hey, I'm Californian! we're spoiled here). Since I'm pretty sure I'll long for Central America's steamy, sunny climate, I'll be featuring a celebration of Central America's best beaches and islands while I'm gone.
Tell us now: What's your favorite Central America beach?
Hotel Valle Escondido in Boquete, Panama
Located in the highlands of Boquete, Panama, Hotel Valle Escondido is one of the leading luxury resorts and investment communities in Panama.
Valle Escondido is far more than a Panama luxury hotel. It's a whole first-world village in a private valley -- "valle escondido" means "hidden valley", after all. Autumn-colored construction contrasts with the rich green surroundings, and the mountainous hills piled with misty trees. Despite the rural feel, downtown Boquete is within walking distance of Valle Escondido, perfect for an extended stay (or purchase).