Honduras is a country of lowlands and fertile valleys and, indeed, La Ceiba (a major banana port) even looks to tourism as a future major industry. There are good hotels and beaches, and an international airport to boot. Trujillo itself was once a thriving port, with a fascinating pirate history and superb tropical beaches.

Hurricane Mitch devastated much of the country in 1998 but an international effort quickly rebuilt much of the country’s infrastructure. However, the economy is still very weak. Many people live in poverty and crime levels and drug trafficking have soared.

112,492 sq km (43,433 sq miles).

7.3 million (2006).

64.9 per sq km.

Tegucigalpa. Population: 1.2 million (2005).

Republic.

The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken by the West Indian settlers in the north and on the Bay Islands off the Caribbean coast. Amerindian dialects are also spoken.

Roman Catholic majority, Protestant minority.

GMT - 6.

There are strong Spanish influences, but the majority of the population is mestizo, mainly leading an agricultural way of life with a low standard of living. Many rural communities can still be found living a relatively unchanged, traditional lifestyle. Social courtesies should be observed. It is customary for a guest at dinner or someone’s home to send flowers to the hostess, either before or afterwards. Conservative casual wear is widely acceptable with dress tending to be less conservative in coastal areas. Beachwear and shorts should not be worn away from the beach or poolside. Men are required to wear dinner jackets for formal social occasions. Hotels, restaurants and shops include a 12% sales tax on all purchases.

110/220 volts AC, 60Hz.

President Manuel Zelaya Rosales since 2006.