I was there in November with friends. We separated when we got to Roatán each to our own discoveries. When we met up later we found that we may as well have been on different islands. Our choice was to take that winding road to the beach like a train of tourists. Our friends did the wild thing by winging it. They had the most fun and we learned a valuable lesson. No more tests.

In any case the people we met unconnected to the tourism industry were a pleasure. Many wore a mask that we see in tourist areas where locals have to put up with vacationers but many more simply went on with their business of being who they were. I didn't feel pity and I rarely do - with the exception of some areas of the Dominican Republic more related to leadership and corruption. I picture myself born into the beautiful surrounding in a culture that is unique and includes all. I suspect it is harder to be in America where the discrepancies are much more obvious.

Roatán, Honduras is just fine imo and as long as they can preserve those things that are important to heritage and nature along with bringing in tourist dollars they will be more than fine. A Hard balance to create but certainly possible.