Hi Destination: The New Magazine Showcasing Roatan’s Beauty and Local Culture
Roatan, one of the most beautiful islands in the Honduran Caribbean, is about to unveil a new and exciting platform to highlight its charm to the world. Hi Destination, a fresh and visually captivating digital and print magazine, promises to fill a crucial gap in showcasing the island’s wonders, culture, and everyday life. With its high-quality imagery and unique perspective, Hi Destination is poised to become a powerful tool for promoting Roatan as a must-visit destination.
A Fresh and Vibrant Look at Roatan’s Beauty
The island of Roatan has long been a top tourist destination in the Caribbean, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. However, until now, there has been a lack of a visually engaging publication that truly captures the island’s essence. Hi Destination aims to solve this issue by offering a visually rich experience that appeals not only to tourists but also to locals.
Karim Banegas, one of the co-founders of Hi Destination, explained the magazine’s vision: "We want to address the need to show the island's tourist spots in a way that is more engaging and visually appealing. Through high-quality images, we want to showcase Roatan’s beauty in a way that stands out and draws people in." This approach ensures that the magazine will highlight the island’s stunning landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters to the vibrant reefs and golden sunsets, all captured with an artistic and professional eye.
Promoting Local Stories and Entrepreneurs
While Hi Destination is centered around tourism, it goes beyond just showcasing the island’s natural beauty. The magazine also places a strong emphasis on the people who make Roatan so special—the locals. Through its pages, it will shine a spotlight on local entrepreneurs, from those running small food stands offering traditional island delicacies to larger businesses contributing to the island's growing tourism industry.
Emerson Callejas, the co-founder and production lead, stressed the importance of including these local stories in the magazine. "We want to show the real heart of Roatan. It’s not just about the beautiful landscapes, but also about the people who make this island thrive. From the biggest businesses to the smallest, everyone plays a part in this project." By giving visibility to local entrepreneurs and their contributions, Hi Destination will help visitors connect with the island on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and authenticity.
Highlighting Roatan’s Iconic Destinations
One of the main features of Hi Destination is its in-depth focus on Roatan’s iconic destinations. The magazine will take readers on a journey through the island’s most beloved tourist spots, such as the stunning coral reefs, breathtaking beaches, and famous landmarks like the Roatan Marine Park and West Bay Beach. It will also highlight eco-friendly attractions like Gumbalimba Park and Mayan Eden, which offer tourists a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
By presenting these destinations through beautiful and captivating visuals, Hi Destination will provide an immersive experience for those considering Roatan as their next vacation spot. It will give potential visitors an inside look at what makes the island so unique, beyond the typical promotional materials.
A New Platform for Roatan’s Tourism Growth
The launch of Hi Destination comes at a time when Roatan is rapidly growing as a popular tourism hotspot. With its increasing number of visitors, it is crucial for the island to have a modern and professional platform that reflects its potential and appeal. This magazine offers just that, acting as both a marketing tool and an ambassador for the island.
Emerson Callejas emphasized the importance of the magazine in promoting Roatan’s tourism: "We are focusing on showcasing the island’s full potential. Roatan has so much to offer, and we’re confident that Hi Destination will play a major role in promoting it to both local and international tourists."
The magazine’s approach is unique in that it blends high-quality photography, local stories, and insider tips, making it an essential read for anyone interested in discovering the best of Roatan. Whether visitors are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a deeper cultural experience, Hi Destination will provide all the information they need to plan their trip.
A Collaborative Effort for a Greater Impact
Hi Destination is not just the product of its founders but the result of a collaborative effort with local models, presenters, and other personalities who are helping bring the magazine to life. The team behind the magazine is committed to working closely with the community to ensure the publication authentically represents Roatan’s culture and spirit.
By involving local talent and businesses, Hi Destination is creating a platform that reflects the island’s diverse offerings. The magazine is not just about showcasing the beauty of Roatan but also about celebrating its people and their contributions to tourism, culture, and local life.
Tourist Attractions of Roatan
Roatan, the largest island of the Bay Islands, has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether it's your first visit or you’re an experienced traveler, Roatan offers countless attractions and activities that cater to all types of tourists. Some of the main attractions in Roatan include:
Gumbalimba Park
One of the most unique experiences on the island is a visit to Gumbalimba Park, where you can interact with a variety of local wildlife. The park is famous for its Monkey Village, home to the only population of capuchin monkeys in Roatan living in the wild. Visitors can get up close to these playful creatures, making it a popular spot for animal lovers and families with children.
Gumbalimba Park also offers the opportunity to witness macaws flying freely, a colorful spectacle that brings the island's vibrant ecosystem to life. The Sloth Sanctuary offers the chance to meet and even hold these gentle, slow-moving creatures, creating unforgettable memories. Roatan’s dedication to preserving its natural wildlife is evident in the well-maintained sanctuaries, making them must-see attractions for animal enthusiasts.
Divers Paradise
Roatan is world-renowned for its diving opportunities, thanks to its location on the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. For both beginners and experienced divers, Roatan offers a variety of dive sites ranging from shallow coral gardens to deep wreck dives.
Diving here provides the chance to see an extraordinary variety of marine life, including colorful coral formations, sea turtles, eagle rays, and even sharks. Shark dives are particularly popular among thrill-seekers, offering a close encounter with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With numerous dive shops and certified instructors, Roatan is a top destination for anyone looking to explore the underwater world. The island's crystal-clear waters also make for excellent underwater photography.
Little French Key
For those looking for a day of relaxation in paradise, Little French Key is an idyllic private resort on an island just off the coast of Roatan. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a range of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The island also features beachfront bars and restaurants where guests can savor local delicacies and cocktails.
Fort Consolation
History lovers will appreciate a visit to Fort Consolation, one of Roatan's lesser-known yet intriguing historical sites. The fort was built to defend the island from pirates and invaders during the colonial era. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the island's strategic importance during the Caribbean piracy era.
Snorkeling in Roatan
For those who prefer to stay near the surface, snorkeling in Roatan is just as rewarding as diving. With clear waters and abundant marine life, snorkeling spots like Half Moon Bay and West End offer incredible views of coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. The waters are warm and shallow, making this activity an ideal choice for families and those new to underwater exploration.
iSoar Roatan
iSOAR Roatan is sailboat which is moored in the sheltered waters of Halfmoon Bay, Roatan. The sailboat has been retrofitted with dive platforms, rope swings, and rock climbing footholds. iSoar is free to the public, and it is quickly becoming a Roatan favorite. The iSoar sits in about 20 ft of water with a seagrass bottom. There are patches of sand here and there, but most of the bottom is covered in with seagrass. The Coral Reef system is located just a few strokes away.
Roatan Freediving
For those who wish to explore the underwater world without the need for scuba gear, Roatan Freediving offers a unique way to experience the island's marine life. Freediving allows you to dive deeper using only a single breath, providing a meditative and exhilarating experience. Roatan is an ideal location for this sport due to its calm, clear waters and abundance of diving spots.
Roatan's Live Music Scene
Roatan is not only known for its natural beauty but also boasts a vibrant live music scene. Many bars and restaurants on the island feature performances by local musicians, often playing a mix of reggae, Caribbean rhythms, and popular hits. Visitors can enjoy live music while sipping cocktails and watching the sunset, a perfect way to end the day on the island.
Iguana Farm
Nature and reptile lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Iguana Farm, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting green iguanas, an endangered species. Visitors can interact closely with these fascinating creatures and learn about ongoing conservation efforts to preserve their habitat.
Fishing and Shark Dives
Fishing is another popular activity in Roatan, with opportunities ranging from deep-sea fishing for large game like marlin and tuna to lobster fishing, where you can catch your own dinner in the crystal-clear waters around the island. Shark dives also cater to more adventurous visitors wishing to see these fascinating marine predators up close.
Roatan Rum Company
No visit to Roatan would be complete without sampling the local rum. Roatan Rum Company offers tours where visitors can learn about the distillation process and taste a variety of locally produced rums. The tour ends with a tasting session on a scenic terrace overlooking the Caribbean, making it an ideal stop for both rum enthusiasts and casual tourists.
Kitesurfing
For water sports enthusiasts, Roatan is a fantastic place for kitesurfing, with consistent winds and crystal-clear waters. Kitesurfers, both beginners and experienced, will find that the waters surrounding the island offer optimal conditions for this thrilling activity.
Santos Guardiola: East End Roatan
Located on the easternmost side of Roatan, Santos Guardiola includes small communities, each with its unique charm, and offers visitors a more authentic and laid-back experience of island life, away from the bustling tourist hubs. Each with its own history, culture, and charm. Some of the most well-known communities in this part of the island include St. Helene, Port Royal, Camp Bay, Diamond Rock, Oak Ridge, Calabash Bight, Jonesville, Jonesville Point, and Punta Gorda.
A remote village known for its pristine natural beauty and mangrove channels.
Camp Bay
Featuring one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, perfect for those looking to relax in paradise.
Calabash Bight
A serene bay with calm waters, ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Port Royal
A historically significant site, once home to English pirates, now a peaceful and scenic area for exploration.
Diamond Rock
Known for its striking natural formations and great fishing spots.
Jonesville
A quiet fishing village known for its mangrove channels and scenic beauty.
Punta Gorda
This Garifuna village is steeped in history and tradition, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant Garifuna culture. You can interact with locals, learn about their customs, and even take part in cultural events that showcase traditional Garifuna music and dance.
Oakridge
Another must-see community in Santos Guardiola is Oak Ridge, often referred to as the “Venice of Roatan.” Visitors can explore the village by water taxi, getting a true sense of life in this vibrant, sea-bound community.
Things to Do in the East End of Roatan
Visitors to Santos Guardiola can also take advantage of a variety of activities that showcase the beauty and culture of Roatan’s East End. Some of the most popular attractions include:
Punta Gorda Garifuna Village
The oldest settlement on the island, Punta Gorda offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in Garifuna culture. Watch traditional dances, enjoy Garifuna cuisine, and learn about the history of this unique Afro-Caribbean community.
Snorkeling in Oak Ridge
Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Oak Ridge is one of the best snorkeling spots in Roatan’s southeast region. Discover the beauty of the coral reefs and underwater ecosystems that surround the area.
Oak Ridge Tuk Tuk Tour
Take a tuk-tuk tour through the colorful streets of Oak Ridge, one of Roatan’s most distinctive fishing villages. The tuk-tuk, a small motorized vehicle, is a fun and convenient way to explore the area.
Mangrove Channel Tours
Explore the serene mangrove channels in Jonesville and St. Helene, where you can glide through calm waterways and observe the unique ecosystems that thrive in these lush environments.
Camp Bay Beach
Camp Bay Beach in Santos Guardiola, Roatan, is the island’s most pristine and beautiful beach. Known for its untouched white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this hidden gem offers a serene, natural escape away from the crowds, capturing the essence of Roatan’s unspoiled beauty.
Kitesurfing
Located beside Camp Bay Lodge, is the only kitesurfing school in Honduras. It offers lessons in English, Spanish, and German, as well as equipment rentals and storage options. With direct beach access and rescue support, Kitesurf Roatan ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. They also organize guided excursions to top kitesurfing spots around the area.
Paya Bay Resort
Is a boutique beach, nature, and wellness retreat focused on tranquility and a deep connection with nature. Located on a bluff with views of the Caribbean and two half-moon beaches, it offers access to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef just offshore. The 16-acre property includes designated Naturist Zones and hosts Naturist Weeks for a unique naturist experience.
Camp Bay Beach Lodge
Camp Bay Lodge is a boutique hotel on Roatan’s peaceful East End, offering a mindful stay focused on nature, authenticity, and tranquility. Located near pristine turquoise beaches and lush vegetation, it provides a unique experience surrounded by local wildlife like birds, iguanas, and butterflies, as well as the island’s laid-back, “country” lifestyle.
With its combination of stunning visuals, local stories, and focus on iconic destinations, Hi Destination is set to become a game-changer in Roatan’s tourism industry. The magazine’s debut marks a new chapter for the island, offering both visitors and locals a fresh way to experience and explore all that Roatan has to offer.
The island’s rich natural beauty, warm-hearted locals, and diverse experiences are all captured in this vibrant publication, making it an essential tool for promoting tourism to Roatan. As the island continues to grow as a prime destination, Hi Destination will serve as a key platform to connect Roatan with the world, inviting more visitors to experience its magic firsthand.
Through high-quality visuals, compelling local stories, and an inclusive approach, Hi Destination is set to be the ultimate guide for anyone looking to explore Roatan in a whole new light.
