Honduras itself is nothing like the Bay Islands. I have spent a lot of time there. My wife is a Honduran/US citizen. We have a place in Choloma, north of San Pedro Sula. The cities are dangerous, especially for an outsider. You will never pass as a local and there are many gangs and street theives who can and will hurt you. You need to watch your back at all times. Wear NO jewelry in the cities. It is an invitation to be mugged. Only carry what money is necessary, in a front pocket and wrapped with rubber bands. Don't carry your passport or credit cards unless you absolutely need them. Quit a few Americans have been killed in Honduras in the last few years. When hurricane Mitch hit it created a very dangerous situation for both locals and travelers. Even on the islands you don't want to walk the beaches after dark unless you are with a group of people who can take care of business. I know that this sound tough but that is the situation. In the boonies you are safer but even then there have been people attacked while back-packing. On the roads from La Lima airport gangs have been known to stop rental cars and busses and have robbed and/or killed the occupants and raped women. They are notified by taxi driver when they think that they have an easy mark. Don't stop for anyone unless you are sure that they are actual military or police. Do NOT get in a situation with the police. They are corrupt and are only after your money. Do NOT get involved in any drugs related situations unless you absolutely KNOW the person you are dealing with. You DO NOT want to get thrown into a Honduran jail or prison. It's no cakewalk. A lot of people, having visited Honduras, want to buy some real estate there. You have to deal with only those agents who can be vouched for by a recently satisfied buyer. Be very careful who you are dealing with as there are many scam artists in this business. If you keep your nose clean, stick to the rules and don't stretch the limits you can have a great time in Honduras. Just be careful.
