The Land of The Copan Ruins, Bay Islands & La Mosquitia

Information on Relocating to Honduras

·         The capital city of  Honduras is Tegucigalpa with about  1.2 million people. The political centre is also in Tegucigalpa where the President resides. Honduras is a Republic.

·         Languages: The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken by the West Indian settlers in the north and on the Bay Islands off the Caribbean coast and Indian dialects. The TV programs are in Spanish. Cable and Satellite TV are available.

·         Population: The population is about 7.3 million people - 90% are mestizo (mixed Amerindian and European), 7% Amerindian, 2% black amd 1% white.

·         Expat areas: Most popular areas are Roatan and Tegucigalpa.

·         Housing:  Housing in Honduras results in a good option for expatriates due to the low prices. Most of expatriates prefer to rent due to the short periods of time the stay in the country. Rents may vary from USD 700 per month up to USD 2500 or USD 3000. - Nice townhouses may be rented for approx. USD 1200 per month.

·         Cost of housing: Varies from area to area and depending on the size of the house or apartment you'll pay a really low rental. The local currency is Lempira (La).

·         Schools: We have the American and the International school. Depending on the age we can tell you about a possible waiting lists, etc.

·         Transportation:  Local lines run regular services to most large towns, but the services are well used and booking in advance is essential. On the whole the services are very cheap. Taxi are not metered, and run on a flat rate within cities. For other journeys, fares should be agreed before commencing journey.

·         Bank: The banks are open Mondays-Fridays from 9.00 am - 3.00 pm (some banks open until 6.00 pm). Some branches open Saturday 9.00 am - 12.00 noon.

·         Shopping: Is generally done from Monday-Friday 8.00 am - 12.00 noon and from 1.30 pm - 6.00 pm. On Saturday 8.00 am - 5.00 pm.

·         Climate: The climate is tropical, with cooler, more temperate weather in the mountains. The north coast is very hot with rain throughout the year, and though the offshore breezes temper the climate, the sun is very strong. The dry season is from November to April and the wet season runs from May to October.

·         Culture: There are strong Spanish influences, but the majority of the population is mestizo, mainly leading an agricultural way of life with a low standard of living. Many rural communities can still be found living a relatively unchanged, traditional lifestyle. Social courtesies should be observed. It is customary for a guest at dinner or someone’s home to send flowers to the hostess, either before or afterwards. Conservative casual wear is widely acceptable with dress tending to be less conservative in coastal areas. Beachwear and shorts should not be worn away from the beach or poolside. Men are required to wear dinner jackets for formal social occasions. Hotels, restaurants and shops include a 12% sales tax on all purchases. There are cinemas and discos in the main cities.

·         Public holidays: January 1st-New Year’s Day; March/April- Maundy Thursday, Good Friday (dates vary); April 14th-Day of the Americas; May 1st-Labour Day; September 15th-Independence Day; October 3rd-Soldier’s Day; October 12th-Americas Day; October 21st-Armed Forces Day; December 25th-Christmas Day.