FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is Roatan? For maps see our Maps link. Roatan is located just north of Honduras in the Caribbean. Roatan is part of the Bay Islands, a group of small islands the belong to Honduras.
Is there an International Airport in Roatan? Yes, and direct flights are available from Miami, Houston and Dallas on Saturdays only. Sol Air now travels to Roatan from Dallas, Texas. Taca Airlines travels from Miami and Houston on Saturdays also.
What beach is the race taking place in? The race takes place at West Bay Beach on the western tip of the Island. There is a paved road that serves this beach as well as water taxis coming from the town of West End just a couple of miles down the beach.
How do I get from West End Beach to West Bay Beach? You can take a water taxi for about $2 per person from West End to West Bay Beach. Both beaches are located on the western tip of the island, but are separated by about 2 miles of beach and coral. You can also walk or run safely from one beach to the other. The walk takes about 20-25 minutes and takes you through part of the West End village.
Is there public transportation? Yes, there is good public transportation which takes you from the western beaches to other towns in the island for about $4. You can also hire a taxi by the hour to visit the island, or rent a car. Water taxis do a great job of transporting people between West Bay Beach and West End Beach for $2 per person.
Is there home-stay offered? We are working on this with some local American families. If you are interested please contact Leslie at info@bayislandstriathlon.com. Space is limited.
Why is space limited to 300 participants? Even though we would prefer to have more than 200, we want to make sure that logistically we can handle this amount. We did very well with 120 people coming into the Island during our first race in March of 2003. We believe the systems in place will handle 300 easily, and with time we'll grow to a larger race. Our limitation lies only on the International connecting flights onto the Island.
Will I need to rent a car? You can rent a car if you think you'll be traveling often from the western end of the island to other parts of the island, or if you decide at some of the East side beaches. Most tourists don't need a car in addition to the local public transportation. Some good restaurants are about 30 minutes away from the west beaches, but a taxi cab an take you there and even wait for you if you so desire.
How safe is the Island? The island is very proud of its safety record. Tourists and all visitors are respected and welcomed. You can safely walk around the villages, while you visit the different restaurants, bars and discos.
Do I need any special immunizations? NO. No immunizations are required by law. Some organizations recommend that you take Malaria medication prior to traveling to Honduras for an extended period of time. Ask your family doctor for information. Since you will be coming at the driest time of the year and for 5 days or less, malaria should not be a problem, but good repellent is strongly recommended to ward off mosquitoes.
What kind of repellent is best? The best and more effective kind are the ones containing DET. Bring one or two types, since effectiveness varies from person to person.
Can we ride our bikes or go for runs before race day? Yes you can, but always keep in mind that cyclists are not as well respected here as in Europe or "some" parts of North America. Please ride in groups and exercise caution when doing so. Keep a single file and don't ride side to side. We are meeting with the local taxi and bus unions to let them know there will be cyclists on the roads and to maintain their distance and be cautious.
Is there traffic on the roads? There is medium traffic on the roads, especially in the morning hours between 7am and 9am on weekdays.
Do I need a passport? Everyone needs a valid passport. For Americans, please go to http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ for your nearest office.
Do
I need a visa? Americans do not need a visa. Some European
countries need one. Please check with your local authorities or contact
the following person for more information: Mario Aguirre, PO Box 140458
Coral Gables, FL 33114. Phone (800) 410-9608. If you have
trouble getting information please contact Leslie at info@bayislandstriahtlon.com.
You can also go to: www.letsgohonduras.com
for a complete list of countries requiring visas.
Please let us know if you will require assistance with your visa. Arrangements are possible for athletes coming from countries where there is no Honduran embassy or consulate.
Is there drafting allowed? Drafting is allowed for the Elite or Pro category only.