Have the Beach to Yourself in Honduras

The best time to visit Honduras is November through April, after the rainy season and the risk of hurricanes has passed. April and May are the warmest months, with highs in the mid-80s and evening lows in the mid-60s in the capital city of Tegucigalpa.

One big caveat: Honduras has a reputation for being dangerous, and crime is a problem in the cities, but the most beautiful parts of the country are a great deal safer. Travelers who are comfortable visiting the developing world will be equally comfortable here.

Recommended guidebooks for Honduras include the Lonely Planet's guide to Honduras and The Bay Islands, published in 2007. Moon's Honduras guide is also worth a look, although it is slightly older.

Honduras has four international airports, in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba and Roatan. Continental Airlines(CAL Quote) flies direct from Houston, TACA direct from New Orleans, Delta(DAL Quote) direct from Atlanta and American Airlines(AMR Quote) direct from Miami.

The most luxurious accommodations can be found at eco-lodges: in La Ceiba, The Lodge at Pico Bonito from $180, or Las Cascadas from $155 and in Copán, Hacienda San Lucas from $85, or Hotel Marina Copán from $85. (All prices for doubles.)

Most water-based activities, from whitewater rafting, to snorkeling to diving, are best accomplished here with a guide. In La Ceiba, try La Moskitia Ecoaventuras, Omega Tours or Garifuna Tours.