Tegucigalpa
The commercial and financial district is located within Boulevard Morazán, also known as the Zona Viva for its restaurants, shops and offices.
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To Get There
The International Airport of Toncontín is located two miles from Tegucigalpa. A taxi to the city ranges from $15-$20. However, taxis are not metered so it is best to negotiate the fare in advance. Honduras levies a $27 departure tax.
where
To Stay
The Real InterContinental Tegucigalpa (Avenida Roble S/N in front of the Multiplaza shopping mall, tel: 504-231-2727) is five-minute taxi ride from the financial district. Room rates range from $189-$800 plus 16% tax. Visit www.gruporeal.com or send an e-mail to the hotel at instantservice@gruporeal.com.hn.
To Eat
Located on a mountainside, La Cumbre (km. 7.5 on road to El Hatillo, tel: 211-9001) features an international menu with German specialities and a stunning view of Tegucigalpa. For seafood dishes and excellent local beef, La Cousa (Calle Santa Barbara 2706, tel: 235-8571) is a good choice. The restaurant has a cigar bar and knows seafood: Chef Werner Volk owns the largest shrimp-packing plant in the country.
Rojo, Verde y Ajo (Colonia Palmira, tel: 232-3398) serves mostly parrillada beef dishes. The restaurant has a full bar with soft jazz music and a relaxed ambience.
To Drink
Vinalia Wine Bar (Boulevard Morazán, tel:221-1002), is one of the best places for drinks in Tegucigalpa. The décor is a mix of rustic wooden tables, Lenca pottery, beautiful fabric curtains and French-styled chairs.
To Unwind
The Galería Nacional de Arte (tel: 237-9884 next to Iglesia de la Mercedes) has exhibits covering the evolution of Honduran art.
San Pedro Sula
San Pedro Sula, the country’s second-largest city, is situated in a lush valley.
To Stay
In San Pedro Sula, we recommend the Real InterContinental San Pedro Sula (Colonia Hernández and Boulevard del Sur, tel: 504-553-0000), located in San Pedro’s commercial district. Room rates range from $140-$450. Visit www.gruporeal.com or e-mail: sanpedrosula@interconti.com.
To Eat
Chef Mariano’s (10 Calle and 6 Avenida, tel: 552-5492) popularity comes from the laid back feel and excellent local dishes. Pat’s (Colonia Río de Piedro, Calle 15, between 18-19 Avenida, tel: 553-0939), has a simple local menu featuring excellent fish dishes and beef cuts in a warm, casual setting.
what
To Buy
Valle de Angeles, a small village 25 minutes from Tegucigalpa, sells leather bags and coats, wooden boxes and other decorative artifacts. Also look for pottery made by native Lenca Indians.
2004 National Holidays
May 1 – May Day
September 15 – Independence Day
October 3 – Morazán?s Day
October 11 – Columbus Day
October 21 – Army Day
December 25 – Christmas Day
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