It has been three weeks since Honduras went into a lockdown to arrest the spread of Covid 19. It is easier said than done! These are truly stressful times. As the songs says: “even lovers need a time far away from each other”. Our family relations are stressed, and we are growing desperate. Regardless of whether we can afford a vacation after the lockdown or not, we are all dreaming of a vacation. Especially when you consider that this is Easter Week, the busiest travel week in Latin America! The good news is that tourism with social distancing is possible in Honduras. Atlantida offers ideal conditions to practice tourism with social distancing. This type of tourism will become the new norm, and in addition to sustainable tourism, travelers will now be seeking for this new kind of tourism.
Enjoying the view from the swing bridge at the Cangrejal River. Photo: Courtesy of Héctor Santos
With a total of 8 protected areas in Atlantida, this destination offers ideal conditions for social distancing. Half of these protected areas are in Tela, and the other half in La Ceiba. As such, they are spread out in a large region. These areas offer a multitude of trails, both in land and in water. Many offer rivers and creeks with crystal clear waters. Others have hot springs to offer. Yet many others have spectacular beaches to enjoy. By definition, a national park or a protected area puts you in close contact with nature. This implies being away from people. Now do not get me wrong, I am not suggesting you visit these areas on your own. They are perfect to visit as a family or with a group of friends, but of course, a small group. A trail is the perfect place to practice tourism with social distancing.
The Beaches at Triuinfo de la Cruz are ideal for tourism with social distancing. Photo, courtesy of Isis I. Castro Alberto
The same concept applies to the crystal clear rivers in La Ceiba or the spectacular beaches in Atlantida. You will be able to enjoy nature at its best without being in contact with crowds. Restaurants in Atlantida are working on creating a virus free atmosphere, that will include fewer customers, with tables spread apart. You will be able to enjoy great meals with social distancing.
Guaruma Trail in Pico Bonito National Park. Photo: Courtesy of Isis I. Castro Alberto
As far as hotels, most of the hotels in Atlantida are small properties. For example, the Cangrejal River Valley has a total of 10 small hotels. In total, they offer 50 rooms. They are spread out over a large area, and their public spaces are large in comparison with their number of rooms. Many have their own trails or are within easy reach of the public trails. As you see, Atlantida offers ideal conditions for tourism with social distancing! Most hotels are working on special packages and promotions to offer as soon as the lockdown comes to an end. I suggest that you keep an eye out for the Visit Atlantida Facebook page, where they will be publishing their special offers. Come to Atlantida and experience firsthand how tourism with social distancing can be enjoyed to the max!
Exploring Los Micos Lagoon in Tela
