Safety in the Bay Islands

Remember to also look at the Safe Driving Tips if you plan on driving!

The first and foremost priority for foreigners traveling abroad is their personal safety. Although authorities are working hard to make the islands a safe place, there are still some issues that come up once in a while and that need to be resolved. As with any other place in the world, one must use common sense and take the necessary basic precautions.

If you are staying in a resort, a condominium complex, a gated community or a hotel, you can be confident that the place is safe. Those places are usually gated and have watchmen at night and sometimes even during the day. Most bed & breakfasts are also safe. However, as employees earn very little, don't tempt them by leavings things exposed or unattended. Lock up your precious items. Most resorts have a safe for their clients.

You need to be careful if you are renting a house or an apartment, as some areas of Roatán are safer than others. If you have an unguarded house in a "shady" neighborhood, you may be a target for break-ins and find your valuables or even your shoes or some food missing when you come back. Rent in a small community where the people know one another and watch out for each other and get references from people who have been on the island for a while as to what areas are safe.

It is interesting to note that, when it comes to crimes, gringos are targeted done by other gringos as much as island natives.

If you find yourself in a position where you have to defend yourself, even in your own home, you may encounter major difficulties with the legal system. This currently is a very serious issue, as you can be subjected to criminal charges and threatened with jail time, even for self-defense. This is not a clear cut situation and you will need a very good lawyer who is bilingual and who will be able to give you some sound advice. Don't expect to obtain justice in such a situation: any "arrangement" you can get will be preferable to the alternative. Remember that the justice system is extremely corrupted.

Water Safety

The ocean is pretty safe on the nort/north-west side because it is protected by the reef. So you can swim safely on that side. However, be careful if you go outside of the reef. Please also remember not to walk on the reef because the damage you then do is permanent and that part of the reef dies. You can also get bad cuts from touching the reef.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a favorite activity on Roatán. However, avoid going kayaking in the presence of strong winds and do not go outside the reef. This is the Caribbean Sea and strong winds could carry you with strong currents many miles away from the islands. A small kayak is no match for a strong wind, and some people have been lost at sea in kayaks and never been found.

Remember that water sports are not without risks and use common sense!