Utila under my Christmas tree......

[susan6868]

Hi Folks- Just found out that my Christmas present this year is a trip to Laguna Beach Resort in Utila for the third week in February. (awesome gift from an awesome husband!)
I'm thrilled and at the same time a little nervous. We are fairly new divers, some 25 dives or so, and have always gravitated towards more populated, touristy destinations.
I need some reassurance as well as advice from the veterans out there who may have been to Utila or this resort in particular as to what to expect, items to bring that might make the trip more pleasant, what to pack in the way of clothing ( I suspect I'm going to love not having to dress up at all!), and how much American cash to bring along. From prior threads it seems my ATM card may be useless, and I don't know about Amex or Visa.
Is there medical care available in the event of an emergency? What happens if you need stitches or have chest pains for instance? We're in excellent health but as you approach middle age you think about these things!
The resort does three dives daily with two night dives during the week. Can anyone tell me who to tip and how much is customary? Do you tip these folks daily or at the end of the trip?
Is there a way to get or receive calls in an emergency at home or how about internet service?
We're going with a group of divers from a local dive shop here on Long Island but I've yet to meet these new friends. I will try to hook uo with the travel agent who is handling the trip for some basic questions, but I've gotta tell you, it looks like the folks on this board are a far better resource than the average bear here in New York!
Thanks for any tips or advice or even experiences you can pass along about Utila or the Launa Beach Resort. Happy Holidays, and best wishes for a healthy, happy, and "wet" New Year!

 

[Doc]

Hi Folks- Just found out that my Christmas present this year is a trip to Laguna Beach Resort in Utila for the third week in February. (awesome gift from an awesome husband!)

Note to self: Check under my tree immediately!

I'm thrilled and at the same time a little nervous. We are fairly new divers, some 25 dives or so, and have always gravitated towards more populated, touristy destinations.
I need some reassurance as well as advice from the veterans out there

Look at this as an adventure. On a diving adventure scale, I would give it a 4.9 overall (travel+resort+diving). The diving will be from moored boats or- if there is any slight current, you will probably hardly notice it on your well managed dives. The only way you may exceed your former experience level will be the possibility of a night dive. The boats should be consistent with what you already experienced.

The big difference? The amt of bottom time and residual nitrogen. Have a computer and get ready to gain some experience.

who may have been to Utila or this resort in particular as to what to expect, items to bring that might make the trip more pleasant,

DEET. Some may suggest herbal preventatives, but make mine DEET.

what to pack in the way of clothing ( I suspect I'm going to love not having to dress up at all!),

Several T-Shirts and two pair of shorts. Two bathing suits. Windproof jacket. That's it.

and how much American cash to bring along. From prior threads it seems my ATM card may be useless, and I don't know about Amex or Visa.

There's not many opportunities to spend money- no touristy shops, etc. Bring tip money. This has been beaten to death here many time before.

Visa will be usable at a few places. Look at your hotel/dive op. That's where you might use it. They may charge a fee.

Is there medical care available in the event of an emergency?

Short answer: no.

What happens if you need stitches

Hell, even I can stitch someone up. There is a chamber on Utila, I'll let the locals pipe in as to the availability of an MD or RN or...

or have chest pains for instance?

Sign the will.

We're in excellent health but as you approach middle age you think about these things!

Absoultely true. Many people do not. You are wise in your concerns. Buy travel/dive insurance whether it is DAN (the ones with the nifty flag) or some other insurance company.

Every time we leave the house we take a risk. #1 point to remember that you are no longer a citizen of the soil you stand upon. In and foreign country (not saying anything worse about Honduras than anywhere else) you have limited rights.

Do not expect any medical assistance. I shudder when people constantly inquire as to the availability of rental cars on Roatan. Roatan kind of has a hospital, but in no way a trauma center. They also constantly ignore the warnings about liability when one has an accident in a foreign country. Then, the truly boneheaded ask about scooter rentals!


The resort does three dives daily with two night dives during the week. Can anyone tell me who to tip and how much is customary? Do you tip these folks daily or at the end of the trip?

Once again, well discussed here. It never hurts to tip the DM and boat captain $20 to start with at the beginning of the week, after the first day of diving. See if they're worth it, first. New are you? On Utila and the Bay Islands, expect that you carry nothing except your mask fins and snorkel. Expect that your DM show you cool stuff underwater. Do not expect him to be your dive instructor, savior or anything other than a helper with the heavy stuff- assisting you with your BC as well as your ladder exit. The Captain should asssist on exits when he can. He should look at it like a safety management issue. Don't screw up and then start whining that they weren't right there. Learn from them, follow them like a dog, see something. Watch those around you, as well.

Then, at the end of the week, throw down another $40-$60 per diver per DM/Captain. Don't forget the service people as well. The Roatan resort that I favor has a tip jar and suggests 10% of the land package. We tip the DM/Cap an extra $70 each per diver/week. The baggage handlers will be thrilled if you slip them $5 for a couple's bags...they will carry & follow you to your bus... if not your room.

Is there a way to get or receive calls in an emergency at home or how about internet service?

This depends upon the resort. If they do provide a phone number, also get their e-mail address and fax number. This is the single best way to receive emergency messages. Your stateside party-in-need can get a message to you in writing using both methods. Internet? Maybe it will be working.

We're going with a group of divers from a local dive shop here on Long Island but I've yet to meet these new friends. I will try to hook up with the travel agent who is handling the trip for some basic questions, but I've gotta tell you, it looks like the folks on this board are a far better resource than the average bear here in New York!

You always meet like minded folks on a trip. Hey- diving brought you all together, didn't it? You will find that experience levels vary not only in your travelling companions as well as here on ScubaBoard. I have never set foot on Utila other than at the airport to rebuild after Mitch in 1998, although I have been diving extensively around her shores. That makes me an "expert" in a very limited perspective.

Thanks for any tips or advice or even experiences you can pass along about Utila or the Launa Beach Resort. Happy Holidays, and best wishes for a healthy, happy, and "wet" New Year!

Utila is a great place for a first big adventure trip, the first step into the unknown after Cayman or Nassau. There is nothing to fear, but have no doubt, Dorothy- you aint on Long Island any more.

You're going to get many more responses, lots of people love Utila!

Have a ripping good time, take lots of pics and amuse your friends with tales of your adventure into the Honduran jungle!

 

[PJP]

Hi Susan,

Lucky you, you will love the diving here. US dollars and visa card work here, yes we do have a doc here Doc John and we also have a chamber/trauma centre....not that it gets used much but it is well maintaned. Dive sites are all close the longest trip to a dive site is about 45 minutes the shortest walk out your door. Shorts and t-shirts is the official dress code.....but maybe pack a wind jacket. OFF (deet) to keep the bugs at bay. As for tips, if you have had a good time.....up to you. I know a few of the guys that work there...you will enjoy.
The dive sites are nice easy dives...great viz, little to no current and you should be fine with a 3mm wet suit if your bringing your own gear.
PM me if you have any more questions...life is an adventure

 

[itsjustme0770]

Susan,

In the for whatever its worth Column, we took our first trip to Utila some 6 months ago. We've been back twice and have just purchased property there. Its a magnificently undiscovered island. Some of the things I was taken with follow:

1. The distinct european influnce. So many of those who come to Utila are from somewhere other than the states. While I am a gringo from Texas, I tire easily of American intolerance. Its so much fun to hear other viewpoints on this wonderful island.

2. For an island that is practically in the middle of no where, it has surprisingly good and varied restaurants. You name the type of food you like and you are likely to find it here... all prepared and served Utilian style of course.

3. The varied sea-life. I love big and little. From Whale Sharks to Dolphins to SeaHorse's you can have it all.

4. The Prices. We had drinks, a fabulous dinner, several bottles of wine and Desert at the Jade Seahorse. I think the total was $57USD (this for 4 people and I suspect we are paying better than local prices) and we were happy to overtip.

5. The locals. Make no mistake about it. This is one small town. The vast majority of locals I met were happy to tell you abou themselves and their island. As far as Central America goes, and we've been to most places, this is the friendliest, most pleasant, warm local population I've had the pleasure of meeting. Its one of the main reasons we decided to buy.

To answer a few of your questions. The new ATM just went in a few months ago. It works occaisionally. Just keep trying back. Visa only. No mastercard. I saw two clinics and said hello to Dr. John. I'd prefer not to have open heart surgery on Utila, but for minor issues I'd be fairly comfortable. Bugs can be bad when the wind is down. I'll second DEET although others reccommend Cactus Juice.

Happy to answer additional questions if you have them. Have a ball. We'll be back from 12/26-1/11.

 

[susan6868]

I can't wait! Thank you Roatanman, itsjustme0770 and blowbubbles for all the personal insight. I'm "off" to find some DEET, dragging out my T shirts, buying some insurance, and scheduling a check up before we leave. The island, the people, the food, and the dives sound absolutely perfect. As far as telephones, everyone back home knows how to dial 911 which I'm sure will bring better results than calling us in Utila!
One of the fringe benefits of this sport is that you meet the nicest people in the world and it really does feel like a "community" all it's own.
Can't thank you enough for taking the time to respond and for sharing your experiences and advice. Hope you all have the most wonderful holidays!
Susan

 

[Cudabait]

Susan,

Lacuda and I get to Utila pretty frequently. We will be there for about a month beginning February 20. For the most part, we will be staying in town. Laguna Beach resort is removed from town and if you plan to go into town you'll do it by boat.

You are going to have the time of your life while there. All the folks above have given you good info. I would throw in a couple of tank tops. I find tee's can be a little warm. Also, if you don't have one, I would recommend a chamois type top, preferably with a drawstring hood..sleeveless iis OK. You'll find it to be a great thing to throw on between dives (when not looking for whale sharks) They have one of the best captains at the resort.

Don't worry about health issues........just use good dive sense (your own limitations) and from personal experience....there is someone quite capable of suturing on Utila. PS.....35% deet is about as strong as you want to go with. 100% will melt plastic, cameras, etc, etc.

Best wishes for the holidays!!

 

[Utila Simon]

I know about the health risks, Cuda.. but the bugs here drink 35% deet for breakfast

Susan- I suggest you bring light trousers (pants!) because the no-see-ums/sandflies will eat your ankles to pieces. They are unaffected by deet and the best prevention against them is to cover up in the late afternon/ evening. A thick layer of baby oil also helps as they get stuck in it!

Medical facilities are ok. Two clinics, two doctors, medivac plane/boat to the mainland... I hear and read nothing but good things about LBR, enjoy!

 

[susan6868]

Thanks Simon and Cuda- great advice. If the bugs are the worst there is to worry about I suspect this will be a wonderful trip as well as I place I will return to over and over.
Now just counting the days. I'll get ome Deet and maybe just wear fly paper from dusk till dawn. Much rather get bit on land than in the water, if you know what I mean........
Thanks again - I can't wait!
Happy New Year to all!

 

[mjnansen]

I second the recomendation for light weight pants for beach strolling, also, don't forget sunscreen as well as the deet and your favorite treatments for sunburn and bug bites! I usually bring one light weight fleece jacket for evenings (a little sunburn and I chill easily at night) but I also like to have it on the plane so it's not really extra!
Have fun!

 

[steve fletcher]

You will have a wonderful time on Utila, in fact i am there again myself 6th March - 25 May 06 and this is my fourth visit in the last 18 months.

The diving is excellent, warm carribean waters with usually excellent visability.
Utila has numerous fixed dive sites which are reached by resort boats, which moor whilst you dive. These can range from shallow sandy bottoms to walls with impressive vistas and numerous fish. And of course there is the Halliburton wreck just off from utila harbour.
Should you require medical treatment there is two clinics on Utila , One a Spanish run clinic of which I have little experience, the second is the Community clinic run by Dr John. There is also a trauma centre/ chamber available 24 hours a day if needed.

There are numerous places to eat, drink on Utila, usual hang out of the dive community is tranquilla bar or coco locos which are on the waterfront and drinks are around the $1 mark. Most nights these are frequented by the staff and guests of most dive centres on the island.
Internet is widely available though connection speeds can vary from day to day. Usual internet charges are 20 - 50 Limpera an hour which is about $1 - 3 per hour so compares favourably with most internet cafes worldwide.

To give you an idea of the island and the people there is a free island newspaper downloadable.
here is the link http://www.aboututila.com/Utila-East-Wind/index.htm

Have fun and enjoy yourself, I am certain that like many of us will return to Utila time and time again.