Honduras: More Than Violent Headlines

A year in Honduras. Wow, I never thought I would say those words, let alone find myself working and living there for a year. Yet, here I am. A year in Honduras has far outperformed my expectations. It has also shattered negative preconceived notions. Stereotypes of violence and danger were replaced with gratitude for living in such a lovely country. 

For context, I moved to Honduras in August 2022 upon signing a year contract to work at an international school in San Pedro Sula. I was excited about my career as an educator because, on paper, it was an elite school well-known in all of Central America. A year of hard work (as a 1st-grade teacher) showed through learning a new culture, growing my family, and exploring through photography.

I quickly found myself fortunate to live in San Pedro Sula, surrounded by the El Merendon mountain range bustling with green forests and colorful animals. Honduras' beautiful East Coast was also a marvel. Tela's Playa Miami (Miami Beach) had some of the most stunning views from the sky, where a saltwater lagoon met the ocean divided by a thin line of beach with palm trees. Within a boat ride, I was also able to explore Punta Sal, where a speed boat could take you to secluded beaches shaded with trees topped with howler monkeys. 

With an anthropologist background, I was fascinated by the country's cultural diversity and incredible history. The Mayan Ruins of Copan, where scarlet macaws flew, transported me into the past. Utila's turquoise water and isolated cays were also complimented by wonderful people whose history merged from Europe, Central America, and Africa. The experience of talking to people with heritage from around the globe helped me appreciate the cultural diversity of Honduras. 

Living in San Pedro Sula had complications as well. When it is over 100 degrees (40c), and your power goes out, you feel it. Country-wide power outages and the constant reminder that you are highly privileged compared to most Hondurans was difficult. Yet, every country has its hardships, and I sought to see the beauty of Honduras, which is often overlooked by a negative global perspective of the region. 

To close my year's reflection on living in Honduras, I ask that people do one simple thing. Reimagine Honduras beyond the negative global stereotype.

Honduras' coffee is the smoothest in the world and should be complimented with a fresh samita. Its nature is untouched by 'industry and springing with wildlife rivaling Costa Rica. Its rivers snake through the land like wild tapestries. Its people welcome you with open arms, and you never feel like a stranger. Its culture springs with life from Punta dancing to Semana Santa processions. Honduras is more than violent headlines. It is a land of wonder. 

Te Amo, HN 504. Explore responsibly.

By: Rainier Lee