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Understanding Honduras Currency
Travel to any destination is exciting, especially when that destination is Honduras, a country rich in beautiful coastline and mysterious ruins. While it’s wise for Americans to stay toward the coasts and away from the dangerous cities, Honduras has plenty to offer. Mayan ruins rest here, as does the perfect diving conditions on Bay Islands, as well as the opportunity to explore nearly a dozen national parks. It is also one of the most cost-friendly countries in the area, attracting tourists to the white sand beaches and clear ocean waters. If you are planning a trip to Honduras, make sure you understand the currency, then proceed to XchangeforAmerica to grab some cash while sitting at home.
The currency is called lempiras. It comes in coin and paper versions, and is divided in similar denominations to the American dollar. Remember that hotels and shops will charge higher rates for exchange, so make your foreign currency exchange before leaving home. Use common sense with traveling with cash in Honduras, as in any country, and divide the cash among different pockets. If you are traveling with someone, divide the money between your persons. This will reduce the amount stolen if you are robbed.
Grab 100 and 200-lempira notes, as the 500 notes are more difficult to cash in most locations. Get smaller notes for tipping, buses, and smaller expenses, such as the 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 lempira notes.
Keep in mind that many places on the islands will take American dollars in addition to the lempiras, but be sure to ask before assuming. On the mainland, you will only be able to use lempiras. It’s also wise to invest in a cash belt, putting only what you will need for the day in your front pocket. It’s never a good idea to advertise the real amount of money you’re carrying.
Remember that ATM’s in Honduras are not always reliable, so it’s not wise to rely on them for more currency. Try to exchange what you will need before leaving home, and have a plan for carrying the foreign currency in a number of different pockets, to avoid having it all stolen by a pickpocket.
Keep in mind that tipping in Honduras must be done with lempiras, in small bills. Check the bill to see if a service fee has been added, then tip according to the service provided. Tip porters, maids, wait staff, and anyone else you might tip in America.
Prices on the islands surrounding Honduras are low, with the mainland becoming increasingly more expensive. Shopping includes many different markets, including open-air markets, where travelers will stretch their lempiras by haggling prices. This practice is expected. Department stores make an appearance here, as do stretches of shops, similar to outdoor malls. Specialty stores are great for souvenirs, but may only take lempiras. Find out before traveling, or research before making a purchase. Either way, if you carry both dollars and lempiras, you will always be prepared. Contact XchangeforAmerica today to grab your lempiras and be ready for your exciting trip to Honduras.