FAQ
* Where is Roatan? Roatan is a beautiful, Caribbean island just off the Eastern coast of Honduras. It is most popular for its scuba diving around the second largest reef system in the world.
* What other wildlife will I see in Roatan? Marble Hill Farms is a perfect destination for those who love exotic animals. Along with 3 resident dogs, a cat and a guinea hen, you can see flocks of parrots fly overhead and iguanas run across the road. You can visit reserve parks and an iguana farm while on the island as well.
* Where is the central hub of Roatan? Coxen Hole is the main destination for ATMs, government offices and the cruise ship dock. Be careful to keep personal belongings close when travelling into Coxen Hole.
* Where can I get groceries? French Harbour, about 25 minutes from Marble Hill Farms, is home to Eldon's Grocery Store, a gas station and amazing street food! Beliadas are a combination of homemade tortilla, black beans, crema and sometimes egg. They are the most popular and delicious street food on the island!
* What is the currency and exchange rate from US to Honduran dollars? Lempira are the national currency in Honduras. The exchange rate is steady at about 19:1 lempira to dollar ratio.
* What are the different ethnicities on the island? The largest percentage of islanders are of Indian or Spanish descent. Spanish is predominately spoken amongst islanders. Roatan was once predominately black. Most of the people of African ancestry on Roatan are English speaking. The Garifuna tribe speaks their native African language of Garifuna and Spanish.
* What should I expect when I enter the country and go through customs? You will need your passport to travel to Roatan. Your passport will be stamped upon entering the country. Please do bring eco-friendly bug spray, bathing suits, scuba gear. Please do not bring spear guns, non disposable cans of OFF or specific foods that will be confiscated.
* Should I rent a car? Marble Hill Farms can arrange for transportation to and from the airport at an additional cost of $20 each way. If you would like to visit other parts of the island it is nice to have a car but you can always take taxis or arrange a ride with the farm staff. If you decide to rent, bring your passport with you at all times and keep a copy of it in the car. The police do frequent road blocks and stop people at random. Road conditions vary and it is cautioned to rent mopeds.
* What is the climate like? Roatan's hot season is typically between the months of April- August while the rainy season is between September-March. Temperatures can get cool at night during the rainy season and a rain jacket is advised.
* Are there mosquitoes? The island has small bugs called sand flies that do bite. Bug sprays do not work on the sand flies and many people start taking vitamin B-12 or eating garlic to keep the bugs away. Staying off of the beaches during dawn and dusk is advised to avoid bites.
* Are there hospitals or clinics on the island? There is a clinic just down the road from the farm and also in Oak Ridge. Coxen Hole has the best facilities for serious injury.
* Should I take anti-malaria medication? This is a personal preference but many doctors suggest getting the yellow fever, typhoid and tetanus shots. If you decide to take malaria medication expect some negative side effects. If you don't like taking medication, wear slacks and bug spray to avoid bites.
* Can I drink the water? Do not drink tap water on the island. Bring a reusable water bottle with you and refill it anytime in our kitchen. Otherwise, bottled water is suggested at all times.
