Atmospheric conditions change constantly in the tropics due, in part to the humidity in the air. What you see today, you may not see tomorrow. From Roatan Island, we can occasionally see outlying cays and the mainland Honduras. But rarely can we see the mainland in such breathtaking detail as this morning. When I say rarely, I mean perhaps once or twice per year!
June 1st officially marks the beginning of the 2010 Hurricane season here in the tropics… and although Roatan is NOT IN THE HURRICANE CORRIDOR, we do occasionally get the odd one.. about every 24 years on average. This year, US Meteorologists are predicting a "higher than usual" activity season based on the diminishing El Nino phenomenon over recent months. This means the usually strong shear winds blowing in the Atlantic (where 90% of Tropical Hurricanes form) are weakening, thus perhaps allowing the strengthening of Atlantic storms… I guess we'll see, right?
First off, I'd like to thank the hundreds of people who were interested in the $119k Condo deal I offered last post… glad to say we are now UNDER CONTRACT on that one! Watch for further blow outs right here!
Weather is changing here in the islands - changing winds, overcast skies and cooler temperatures means big game fish are surfacing more regularly… and that translates into some great fishing! I'm hoping to get out this weekend and catch something.. or just have a great time… either way, it's win/win!
On an island where the cheapest beachfront condo is more like $200,000, tucked away in a popular boutique resort is an offering that will blow you away! If you're in the market for an investment that will pretty much pay for itself, then look no further! This small but functional beachfront unit will be getting a total makeover including new tile floors, remodeled kitchen w/new stainless steel appliances, completely new bathroom and new furniture throughout - INCLUDED IN THE PRICE! Blue Bahia is a popular resort here in Sandy Bay with a gourmet restaurant and is rated #1 Boutique Hotel on Roatan by Trip Advisor! Rental income, Dive shop, swimming pool and more!!! Hurry… this one won't last!
If you've ever looked out the window during your airplane's approach to Roatan International Airport, you'll have to agree… this is one beautiful island! The deep green and blue colors of the Caribbean Sea that surrounds us, the vibrant Coral Reef just off it's shores and the breathtaking topography of this volcanic island are simply too much for words! Join me as I showcase Roatan's beauty by air and enjoy what few get to experience!
Surfing the web looking for great hotel deals in Roatan is one thing… getting the deals is another. Here's a sure fire way to ensure you get the best deal available on lodging...
With almost 90% humidity in the islands sometimes, a closed up home can grow mold faster than cheese! You need to constantly be aware of this black and green slime and know how to fight it! I've seen it everywhere… in a closed up car, on the walls, floors, ceilings, shoes, clothing and especially leather products. Here's some important things to consider...
Let's face it… Roatan can get sweltering. And when it's 95º with no wind.. it's unbearable to think of jogging our physically exerting yourself outdoors… the only thing I want is a hammock in the shade, a good book and a cold bevy… But there are some alternatives… Roatan now has 3 large fitness centers complete with full weight machines and free weights, Yoga and Taekwondo classes and of course, the Squash Court at Costa Tesoro--all air-conditioned and comfortable.. so there's NO EXCUSES not to stay in tip top shape! Today, Peter Silseth, Manager of Radio HRGS here on Roatan, joins me for some Squash… the game, not the vegetable!
Tax assessments here on Roatan are different than you may be used to back home. Every year property taxes are due on your land or home here. And you get no notice. No invoice. No follow-up. So how do you know what to pay? When? I'll explain...
There are many special individuals on the island of Roatan who's "mission", "ministry" or who's heart is dedicated to helping others. They give freely of their time, money and abilities to assist the less fortunate here in the isles. One such person is Valerie Nelson - a Canadian with a mission! Learn more about the difference Valerie is making in hundreds of children's lives… starting with Crab Racing!
Ever look at an advertisement about a restaurant's menu item and discovered when you ordered and it was brought to your table…. it looked nothing like the picture or the description? That's very common and although misleading, seems to be acceptable in the advertising arena. I guess that's the origin of the term "Let the buyer beware". The same reigns true of many hotel websites… so do your homework BEFORE you book - to avoid disappointment. There's one website that tells all…. TripAdvisor.com!
Whether it be the orphanages, the homeless, or the local fire department - many people coming to Roatan find it in their hearts to help out somehow. Many bring donations of food, clothing, school supplies, medicines or assist in building homes, shelters, medical facilities and trash bins. Thank you to all of you! Paradise is not all fun and games. There are many charities on Roatan that need your help...
As an island, a lot of things on Roatan are more expensive due to shipping cost, duties, etc…. but a lot of things are dirt cheap, great value and hard to beat! One of them is beauty care. A typical trip to the Salon for women, including cut, color and manicure is less than $80. For men… a cut is less than $4. The barbers here are trained and efficient. Perhaps not that up on the latest Justin Bieber boy band styles… but it's the Tropics, mon! Who cares?…..
Many islands in the South Pacific and the Caribbean were formed by slow moving molten rock seeping from cracks in the earth's surface at the bottom of the oceans. Some were born more violently, from 'exploding' or erupting lava bursting up from the earth's core. Roatan is one such explosive island! And that's what makes her one of the most beautiful islands on the planet! Check out Roatan's majestic, and dangerous… Ironshore.
Whether it be a home, a condo, a building lot or a timeshare… so many people have 'the dream' of owning property on a tropical island somewhere…. and for many, that 'somewhere' is Roatan!
You may recall me working with Canadians, Jessie and TJ back in a blog in January - where they were looking for a waterfront home as a 2nd home/vacation rental. Well, 3 months, 34 emails, 2 offers later… they are back to close on their purchase… a fabulous Caribbean front concrete home located in West Bay's Lighthouse Estates! With rental income of up to $4,000 per week, Jessie and TJ have found everything on their wish list and today, they close and take possession of their dream…
Nestled into the bustling street of Cayo Ocho… el Mercado is THE place for one-stop shopping on Roatan! Since 1991, this indoor/outdoor market has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Come along and see what it has to offer...
Combing the beaches and restaurants of Roatan this week, it was hard to stumble over a sun-worshiper except on cruise ships days… we are in our low season for sure!! Rest for business owners, tour guides and great deals for travelers! Anthony's Key Resort, Roatan's most famous dive resort, is offering a great deal if you book before June 25th and travel before next January...
Some things you just take for granted - cell phones, internet, SMS messaging…. and although these modern technologies may be available in almost all 4 corners of the globe, the questions arise almost weekly to me; just what the heck is available on Roatan? Can I phone home? Will my computer work with the internet there? Let's have a look, shall we...
It's a tradition in the Islands, Mon! It's de lifestyle of da peoples. It's Island culture. Whether you have long, short or something in between… braids are in! And nobody does braids better than the women of Roatan! Just stroll through Coxen Hole or sander along the beach.. you'll see dozens of women, and men, all with twisted locks of knots, beads, strings and colored hair…. and you can get yours done here too! Do I dare? Take a look...
A family pet sometimes is no different to us than our own children. Many people ask me about bringing pets with them to Roatan and what the dangers, regulations and ins and outs are. There are tropical diseases here that you may not be familiar with. Plain and simple, here's what you need to know...
More than 3 years in the making, The Mansion at Costa Tesoro is now open as Roatan's finest 5 star place to stay! Located right on the beach in West Bay, this amazing Bed & Breakfast offers exclusive getaways to discerning vacationers who seek the ultimate Caribbean experience! Only 6 luxurious rooms nestled in over 8,000 square feet of Mexican-inspired masterpiece! Indoor squash, saltwater swimming pool, swim up bar, kid's playground and full fitness center are just some of the amenities available. Golf packages and Spa services are offered in addition to deep sea fishing and outer island tours. Go to www.CostaTesoro.com for more information...
Not everything about living on a tropical Caribbean island is paradise. Occasionally, there are problems associated with doing business and generally surviving in a 3rd world country where "efficient systems" just do not exist. It seems that if something works here, they change it so it doesn't. Ok.. maybe it's not that bad, but you must be prepared to make certain sacrifices if you're planning on moving here.
One such is the sending of mail and packages from the island. See how we must go about it…
TJ Lynch & Family - Life in Paradise Learn more about TJ his beautiful family. Consistently in the TOP 25 Realtors in the Caribbean, TJ is the best person you could hook up with to buy or sell on Roatan.
Rob Seaman On the ground floor of real estate development in Roatan. Rob can provide you with a great understanding of Roatan it's massive growth and more. Whether it's information you need, finding a contact, or putting your deal together...TJ's Assistant and Technical Guru... brings it all together for us!
TourRoatan.com Whether it's the latest information on a shark dive, the name of the company that offers dolphin encounters, or you just want to view the galleries of the various towns and areas of Roatan... check out the photos, videos and more on TourRoatan.com!
RoatanMag.com Dive into the culture, life and entertainment of Roatan. Looking for a great night club in West End? Who are the Garifuna? How is education and schooling on the island? Each issue focuses on important topics about Roatan.
RetireRoatan.com Roatan is picked as the premier place to retire in the Caribbean. Find out why by reading up on investment tips and strategies, business opportunities, how to retire here and more.
PropertyOnRoatan.com Real Estate is booming on Roatan. Visit this site to read about new developments, hot properties and island growth. View listings, slideshows and detailed analysis of location and properties on the island. Where is the best place to buy for YOU?
LoveRoatan.com Team Lynch pages. We love Roatan and you will too, read up on our experiences here and what life is like in this beautiful tropical paradise.
LiveRoatan.com What's it really like here? What do islanders do on a day to day basis? What food can you buy and cook, where are the best places to eat, play and relax. Read accounts and stories of tourists/occupants of Roatan Bay Island.
InvestRoatan.com Appreciation of real estate on Roatan has been astounding over the last 5 years. New roads, businesses, developments, properties and more. This site provides a history and track record of what is happening on the island. How fast is West Bay or Caribe Point growing?
ExperienceRoatan.com Get a front row seat to Roatan! Site features video collected from around the web of everything Roatan and the Bay Islands. Check out real estate, hotels, activities, music, culture and more.
DreamRoatan.com Dreaming of paradise? This site will help fill in the blurry parts...Fall in love with the natural unspoiled beauty of Roatan, in the Bay Islands of Honduras! All your questions answered here! Such as topography, climate and weather, facilities, travel documents, where to stay, how to get around, history, activities and so much more.