Villas Pico Bonito, Jungle Eco Lodge, La Ceiba, Honduras

How to Know You’re Safe Overseas

2012-01-07T11:09:00.002-07:00

How to Know You’re Safe Overseas
The expats living in each of our top havens report they feel safe. In fact, often they say they feel safer than they did back in the States. That’s not to say there’s no petty crime or that nothing bad ever happens.

But just as you wouldn’t dismiss the idea of owning a condo on Chicago’s upscale Magnificent Mile because of the crime stats on that city’s south side…you shouldn’t reject a town we recommend in a country where you can retire well for less… because you remember hearing something about that nation being “dangerous.” Old stereotypes die hard. You’re best served by seeing a place for yourself. Talk to expats on the ground. See how comfortable you feel there. We predict: You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Honduras Weekly: Honduras Among World's Top Retirement Havens

www.hondurasweekly.com

Take Daphne Newman, who lives in Caribbean Honduras. She’s spending just US$1,400 a month to live yards from a white-sand beach on the island of Roatán. Only a three-hour flight from the US, English-speaking Roatán with its world-class reef just offshore, is an easy place to make friends and fit in.

Just so you understand Honduras

2012-01-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

We had so many families here over Christmas and the New Year. Guess what, not one had any problems with their visit. All were happy and many said they would return. What surprised them all is that everywhere they went the people were friendly and helpful. Honduras is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled Countries in the world. It has many totally pristine areas. It is quite inexpensive as Eco adventure locations go. It is quite easy to get here and interesting destinations are really close together. Sure you can go to Cancun and sit on the beach with millions of others. Here within two or three days you can visit the best Mayan ruins in the world, go white water rafting and then relax on the beach here on the mainland or in the Bay Islands. We don't have a ski area here but we have all the rest. Don't be put off by all the negative press. Come to Honduras, it may change your life!

Rainy season

2011-10-15T10:41:00.000-06:00

In the rainy season we can go from an idyllic wonderland to a raging beast of a river

The View deck

2011-09-19T09:55:00.000-06:00

Great reaction to and good reviews for the view (vista).

Some new photos and some old!

2010-09-08T16:16:00.005-06:00

Thanks Kathleen!

2010-09-03T07:29:00.002-06:00

“Worth the trip!”
Villas Pico Bonito
kdmc 112 contributions
virginia
Aug 29, 2010

VILLA PICO BONITO
Next time, we’ll spend more time at this wonderful spot. We squeezed in a night at Pico Bonito at the end of our trip, and both my daughter and I wished we had planned for at least one more day there. The setting is incredibly beautiful. Richard and Ana have built a lovely respite there with several cottages dotting the landscaped property overlooking the river.

We were met at the La Ceiba airport by Ralph Bodden, a driver who lived in the US but has moved back to Honduras. He took us on the half-hour trek up the mountain to Villas Pico Bonito where we were greeted by Richard, a Brit who has lived all over the world. He entertained us while we waited for lunch to be prepared to order telling us about his adventures Spain, Chile, Australia, China, the UK and the US. As in other small inns we visited in Honduras, getting to know the owner was one of the best parts of our trip.

Our room, the Jungle Lodge, was huge with 2 large beds, comfortable chairs around a coffee table, a big wardrobe and a kitchenette complete with a small refrigerator, microwave, fresh water, dishes and other utensils. The bathroom was a good size and came with plenty of plush towels (and there were more towels for use at the pool or in the river). No air conditioning but there were 6 fans that kept the room very pleasant (and at night, we actually turned them down or off because it was chilly). We didn’t cook at all, but it would have been easy to prepare a meal or two there, and I understand the other cottages have even larger kitchens and more space. This was the biggest and best equipped room we stayed in while in Honduras.

The property is stunning. Our lodge overlooked the river. The patio had a table and chairs. There was a fountain in front with a large ceiba tree and an amazing view of the waterfall high in the mountains directly in front of us. On the grounds, there are beautiful stone paths, luscious flowers and plants, a fresh water pool, bridges and an infinity pool with chaises and tables around it. Unfortunately, it rained much of the time we were there, so we didn’t have the chance to enjoy the pools. We did hike up the road a short distance to the entrance to the national park. When we arrived there, we discovered there is a entrance fee (just 20 lempiras), and we didn’t have any cash with us. But the guard let us pass through anyway. We crossed a hanging bridge over the river, a bit scary if you’re afraid of heights, but fabulous views in both directions of the rushing river, the boulders, the rapids, the jungle and the mountains rising on either side. On the other end of the bridge, we found two trails, both slippery and muddy, so we retraced our steps back across the bridge.

We were asked to order dinner in advance so they could prepare for us. We had the Caribbean fish with garlic and a large salad plus baked potato and bread, shared everything and it was more than enough. All the food is local, and while the fish was delicious, I’d love to try the steak or pork chops. We had to order breakfast the night before as well, not a big deal, just meant choosing between pancakes and baleadas. Breakfast came with fresh fruit, juice and coffee and was included with the room.

We wanted to go white water rafting, and Richard suggested the outfitters just up the road at Jungle River Lodge. Our guides, Angel and his colleagues, were professional and entertaining. We felt safe and had a great time for $40 each. Included was a training session making us practice different strokes and a rescue. The river was too high to raft above the lodge, so they gave us two runs down river including a few class III and IV rapids. In between, we got a treat of fresh watermelon, pineapple and cantaloupe.

I wish we’d had time for more hiking, especially up to the waterfall, and more time to simply enjoy Villas Pico Bonito. We had considered splurging on the very expensive lodge on the other side of the mountain, but I’m glad we decided on Villas Pico Bonito. It was charming and beautiful. I’d recommend it to anyone.

One note: I wish our photos were better, they just don't do justice to this lovely spot!

Thanks Mike and family

2010-08-30T21:31:00.001-06:00

An Inspiring Four Days in Jungle Paradise!

We just returned from two and half weeks in Honduras in august 2010. We spent four invigorating days in the Cangrejal River Lodge (Villas Pico Bonito). We had only planned on staying three days but couldn't pry ourselves away!
Richard and his wife anna built the place and their love for it comes through in every detail. We opted to stay in the Ceiba Tree Lodge and would heartily recommend it. It is a masterpiece. It's like living in a comfortable tree house surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle but with all the comforts of home. We fell in love with the place immediately! The Ceiba Tree and the other lodges are scattered around a compound that is a botanical garden of tropical trees and flowers. There is also a crystal clear infinity pool set above the river and the rainforest beyond. We spent ample time in the pool as well as in the warm Rio Cangrejal flowing by below.
After relaxing by the pool on our first day we hiked to the El Bejuco Waterfall and soaked in the spray of the sixty meter falls. The entrance to the trail is over a suspension bridge a short walk from the lodge.
The next day we went rafting on the Rio Cangrejal, a trip that Richard helped us organize. That was a thrilling and beautiful ride that also included some cliff jumping.
On our last full day we rode the local bus to a small town called Las Mangas and set off on another hike to the village of La Muralla and some fabulous swimming holes.
Richard and anna are friendly and helpful hosts. Richard arranged transport for us from the Roatan ferry to his place and back to La Ceiba for our bus connection. We never missed not having our own transportation. Richard will offer advice or will help arrange adventures in the area, or you may just wish to stay close to the pool and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful place.

· By Mike from Redmond, Washington on 8/30/2010 for a stay in 8/1/2010

My Detailed Ratings

Value: 5 of 5

Check-in: 5 of 5

Location: 5 of 5

Cleanliness: 5 of 5

Comfort: 5 of 5

Service: 5 of 5

Nice review, many thanks to Libby and Nelson

2010-08-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

I cannot say enough about the experience you will have if you make arrangements to stay at Pico Bonitos villas. The physical surroundings are truly stunning, The resort itself is large and meandering ,with grounds that will literally take your breath away, They are luxuriant and exotic.
,On the grounds you will find bouganvillea, coral hibiscus, red hibiscus, angels trumpet, spider lillies, birds of paradise, cheinille plants, massive groves of ten foot gingers, dripping drooping heliconias, roses, orchids.,poinsettas, bananas, coconuts... and this is just a sample..... all with lovely handmade stone walkways and bridges that you can explore it, while tiny and massive orange, flourescent blue, yellow and white butterlies float by..massive bees work and humming birdsthe size of robins dip into flowers with huge curved breaks, ..as toucans and ibis and oropendola cruise by....The property is littered l with outdoor streams and waterholes, has two lovely pools of tilapia and tortugas, all beautifully cared for and lovingly kept up.
This is all tucked between velvety green peaks with a gorgeous river tumbling by marked with black rocks the size of volkswagons and houses and across from a truly stunning roaring regal mesmerizing waterfall.
Within walking distance are two rafting companies, two grill style restaurants, a charming village with friendly locals, an exciting walking suspension bridge, rain forest walking trails in a protected national forest, a. yoga retreat with daily sessions, and a canopy zip line.

But it is the villas themselves that are truly inspiring, They range in style, content, and age,some thatched, but all are set in the rainforest with gorgeous views. We recommend staying in one with a river view or pool view. . It is truly amazing to see the fireworks nightly as the fireflies flit... and listening to the nightly roar of the frogs crickets and night noises..
Some of the villas have lovelly wooden floors, walls and doors, with gorgeous light fixtures and finishing materials, they are commodious, comfortable and spotlessly clean, and they have beautiful and charming local artistic touches........a miniature perfectly formed wooden canoe on the deck table, gorgeous handmade coverlets and curtains and wall hangings featuring local birds, animals and scenes, all made made by a locals you will meet while staying at the resort.
What really makes this resort special is the hosts, who are unfailingly pleasant, helpful and tolerant. Richard brought over books in our interest areas, let us watch a local documentary movie at his house, offered us rides into town, gave us a ride to dinner, gave us his computer to use endlessly.. in short was incredibly generous, interesting, thoughtful and fun... Ana is gracious and elegant, she has a well behaved six year old, Mildred, and there is a local dog who is immense and adorable, named Lucy.
The other staff who work here are responsive, helpful, and thoughtful

I think i may have had the best day in my entire life here yesterday. If you never leave the property you will be totally charmed and endlessly entertained. The swimming pool is an architectual digest quality infinity pool, overlooking a blooming jacaranda tree in full violet bloom.
I have traveled extensively and this is the best place i have ever been in my life. . .

New deck for the Casita

2010-08-18T10:47:00.000-06:00

The Casita is a house with two bedrooms, bathroom and full kitchen. The living area now leads to something new! The only one of our lodges without an nice outside seating area now has a large deck for dining and enjoyment of the fresh air and the newly planted flowers. We hope that this adds to the comfort of our guests who like to stay in the Casita!

Some photos of the area and resort

2010-07-30T12:31:00.001-06:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tripletango/sets/72157603275250153/show/

Some good information here. Thanks for the nice comments too

2010-07-28T06:10:00.000-06:00

Our stay at Villas Pico Bonito (aka Congregal River Lodge) was wonderful. We stayed for 5 nights, following a previous 2 weeks on the Bay Islands. Before we reserved with Villas Pico Bonito, we read the reviews online and looked closely at the pictures they'd posted to Flickr. Although the property looked nice online, when we arrived we saw that the pictures did not do the property justice. It is breathtaking. The pathways have all been made of cemented river rock and have incorporated many of the natural features so that the property blends into the natural surroundings, rather than being an eye-sore on the landscape. And the gardens are spectacular. Due to a booking conflict that made our desired room unavailable, Richard (the owner) automatically upgraded our reservation from the jungle lodge to el bejuco - a full-sized 1-bedroom apartment. I thought that upgrading us was a very classy thing to do (rather than simply ask us to move to an otherwise equivalent room - which we would have happily done). The el bejuco apartment is large, clean, and spacious with great attention to detail - much swankier than we are used to! Richard and Ana are very attentive to their guests without being intrusive or cloying. When making the reservations, Richard was responsive to emails and his replies were always friendly, pertinent, and helpful. When we arrived, Ana greeted us at the municipal ferry dock (despite the fact that it was raining) and got us settled in our room. Richard made phone calls to arrange for us to do whitewater rafting, kayaking, and mountain-biking with Omega Tours (which was a GREAT operation that we recommend highly), and hiking. The fact that Richard offered to make these arrangements meant that we didn't waste any of our precious 5 days trying to figure out how to arrange these activities for ourselves. The staff on-site were equally friendly and helpful (esp. Oskar – thanks for lugging our bags and all those bottles of water!!). We felt very welcome. There are no shops within walking distance of the property and the restaurant on-site is closed on Monday and Tuesday. If you stay at the Villas, you might want to stop for groceries in LaCeiba before you arrive at the property and/or be prepared to walk up the road to eat at Jungle River Lodge or Omega. As an aside, during our stay Richard went “above and beyond” by allowing us to accompany him into LaCeiba so that we could visit an ATM and buy groceries. The property has a great view of el bejuco waterfall and is well situated for lots of activities. It is only a 10 minute walk to one of the entrances to Pico Bonito National park where, for a $7USD entrance fee per person, you can access the loop trail up to el Bejuco waterfall (the same waterfall that can be viewed from the Villas). The Jungle River Lodge which runs rafting tours is about a 3-minute walk away from the villas; however, the excellent reviews for Omega led us to seek out tours with them instead. Omega is located a 20-minute walk away from the Villas; Omega picked us up at the Villas each morning and we chose to walk back at the end of the day. Although we only had 5 nights at the Villas Pico Bonito, we felt like we got to do and see a lot because our great hosts enabled us to use our time to the fullest. If you plan to visit the Rio Congregal, be sure to stay with Richard and Ana at Villas Pico Bonito. You will have an excellent experience at a very reasonable rate.

Life in Honduras

2010-07-21T09:27:00.000-06:00

This link is to a volunteers piece about the kids that are part of HHK. It is a stark reminder of how lucky we are to have a family and friends. Thanks to Honduras Weekly.
http://hondurasweekly.com/volunteerism/2760-the-elusive-gift-of-play

Charging with credit cards

2010-07-06T11:08:00.000-06:00

We now have the ability to take Lempira and other credit cards at CRL. Feel free to charge your meals and your lodging accounts. Lucy approves!

Avatar

2010-06-14T07:16:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, when guests first arrive, they are reminded of an event in their lives. Our recent guests likened being in the resort to being in the forests in the movie Avatar!
I really liked that movie!
Anyway it is fun to see people's reactions when they wake up in the morning having got there at night and in the dark.
Always the comments are amazement as to just how beautiful our part of Honduras is.
I really like that too!

Google translate
A veces, cuando los clientes llegan por primera vez, se les recuerda de un acontecimiento en sus vidas. Nuestros huéspedes recientes se comparó en la localidad, a estar en los bosques de la película Avatar!
Me gustó mucho esa película!
De todos modos es divertido ver las reacciones de las personas cuando se levantan por la mañana haber llegado allí por la noche y en la oscuridad.
asombro siempre los comentarios son de lo hermoso de nuestra parte de Honduras.
A mi me gusta eso también!

Birding at the VPB Lodge. Birdwatching at its finest

2010-05-29T12:52:00.001-06:00

Just sitting around today I took the photo of the Oropendola and the yellow chested bird that I will look up the name of shortly. It may be a Tanager of some sort. Birding is becoming a fascination of sorts here for me. I know when those in the know are here they see many different species and get all excited! Good place for birding is CRL!

Nature at VPB

2010-05-12T07:16:00.001-06:00

Carnival 2010

2010-04-29T11:27:00.002-06:00

MES DE MAYO:
Sábado 8: Carnavalito Colonia Alhambra.
Domingo 9: Carnavalito Colonia Sierra Pina.
Lunes 10 de: Carnavalito Colonia Pizatty.
Miercoles 12: Carnavalito de Barrio Alvarado
Jueves 13: Carnavalito Plaza Premier
Viernes 14: Celebracion del día del Santo Patrón
Sábado 15: Carnavalito Mercado San Isidro
Domingo16:Carnavalito Barrio El Imán
Lunes 17: Carnavalito Solares Nuevos
Martes 18: Carnavalito Mall Megaplaza
Miercoles 19: Carnavalito Barrio Inglés
Jueves 20: Carnavalito Colonia El Sauce
Viernes 21: Carnavalito Barrio La Isla
Sabado 22: Gran Carnaval Internacional Ceibeño

Nice write up. My thanks to the Turco family

2010-04-16T07:19:00.001-06:00

This family came to Honduras with a desire to see the country. Rented a pickup and drove everywhere. They had a great time and no problems. The Turcos are true adventurers! My hat is off to them because the took up a real challenge, they pulled it off and had a great time in Honduras. I hope they will come back.

I traveled with my three daughters ages 13, 11, & 9 and my husband to and all through Honduras. Our last stop was the Villas Pico Bonito. We really wanted to see Pico Bonito National Park and we were not sure where to stay. I am very glad that we did NOT stay in La Ceiba the beach area is not very pretty and the National Park is so beautiful. I had read a review for another Lodge near Pico Bonito, it was very expensive and they would not let us all stay together - we had to pay for two separate villas which we did not want to do, but what really turned us off staying there, was how rude and unfriendly the staff was when trying to make reservations. I researched a little and found out about Villas Pico Bonito, I emailed Richard to find out more information and he could not have been nicer. He is from England, so he speaks perfect English and he went out of his way to make sure our stay at Pico Bonito was wonderful. We rented the El Disco, which is a massive thatched roof champa. My children could not believe we were staying in this huge, open, luxurious "tree house". It was like nothing we had ever seen before. We had plenty of room with two separate bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a full open kitchen. We could cook and prepare our own meals but most of the time we just ate at the pool. The food was simple but always fresh, good tasting, and very reasonably priced. The infinity pool is beautiful and right off the front of the champa. The grounds are beautiful with lots of flowing plants and it is less than a mile up the road to the bridge leading into Pico Bonito National Park. My family and I went on a hike up to the water fall with a guide that Richard scheduled for us. Richard was also able to put together a boat ride and tour out to Cayos Cochinos for my family. Both of them were absolutely the highlights of our trip to Honduras. We snorkeled and explored, it was wonderful. El Disco (Ceiba Tree Lodge) is the perfect place to stay, I can not imagine any place better. It is like camping because you are outdoors in the fresh air with the water fall sounds but you are in a nice bed with electricity and a great bathroom with hot water and a clean shower!! We traveled all through Honduras and saw some amazing sights but when we returned home it was our stay at Villas Pico Bonito that our children kept talking about. And it was the pictures of El Disco that everyone wanted to see!! The Villas are right on the Rio Cangrejal and our only regret is not having more time to fit in whitewater rafting. The beautiful grounds and Richard's dog Lucy would have been worth the trip alone, but the champa was the most unique and cool place we have ever stayed in!! I am so glad that we found it!

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g292023-d1116598-r60949503-Villas_Pico_Bonito-La_Ceiba.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT

New signage

2010-03-28T07:32:00.000-06:00

Easter

2010-03-27T12:29:00.000-06:00

This week the gates will be closed and only open to people I know who have their membership cards and guests who are staying here.

The beautiful people pick Cangrejal River Lodge for their new Carrion ad shoot

2010-03-11T08:12:00.002-07:00

Here they come, the entourage. Fun to have all the young hondurans here making the new ads for Carrion, which is a big department store in La Ceiba and elsewhere.

February flower days

2010-02-15T19:50:00.001-07:00

Volleyball court

2010-02-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Everything going to plan. All equipment has been ordered and will be shipped down to Honduras within a couple of weeks.

New marketing ideas

2010-01-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

How the River Cangrejal Lodge and Jungle Eco Resort conforms to the ten basic requirement that define an Eco-Lodge

Helps conserve the surrounding flora and fauna.

We have preserved all the old growth forest on the property and maintain as necessary We have planted numerous different varieties of plants, Heliconias, Gingers, Hibiscus and Bourgainvillia to name a few.

Tries to work with the local community.

Our employees all come from our neighboring villages and are paid better than basic wage for the area.

Offers educational interpretive programs to both its employees and tourists about the surrounding natural and cultural environments.

Our employees guide tourists on walks in the Cloud Forest. We provide guests with access to local parks and wildlife preserves as well as rafting trips down the river that are both exciting and educational.
We provide books on how the Rain Forest eco-system functions, such as the excellent “Tropical Nature”

Uses alternative, sustainable means of water acquisition and reduces water consumption.

All water is obtained from a local stream that runs all year. It is clear and unaffected by animal grazing upstream as it flows through dense jungle unsuitable for grazing.
In the dry season watering is restricted to preserve sufficient flow for sustaining the colonies of shrimp and crab that inhabit it.

Provides correct handling of sewage and recycling of waste.

The sewage is handled by correctly sized septic tanks that drain into effective and properly designed and built leach fields. This provides clean underground water for plant life. The fields are placed so as not to affect the river or streams.
All rubbish waste is recycled on site at the city dump.

Meets its energy needs through passive design and renewable energy resources.

The stream provides enough flow for a Pelton Wheel Turbine and in the dry season we can harvest abundant sunshine. Both issues are being considered for installation later in 2010

Uses traditional building technology and materials wherever possible and combines these with their modern counterparts.
The La Ceiba Lodge, constructed by Honduran workman in the traditional Champa fashion is a remarkable building. It is not only sturdy but visually stunning. The other Houses or Villas are constructed to the same US codes as prevail in Florida.

During construction has minimal impact on the natural environment.

Absolutely no heavy equipment was use in the construction of the eco-lodge. All foundation trenches and removal of large boulders was manual. All concrete was mixed by hand using sand from the river. All stone work used stones from the river. The work was done by local craftsmen from the surrounding villages.

Blends with local physical and cultural environment through careful attention to form, landscaping and color, as well as the use of local traditional architecture.

The entire project was designed with low environmental impact in mind. The whole eco-lodge area literally nestles on the banks of the river and looks visually pleasing to the passing rafters eyes as well as our guests who stay on the property. A frequent comment is that the whole area is stunning and far more beautiful than portrayed in the photos of same.

10. Contributes to sustainable local community development through education programs and research.

The River Cangrejal Eco-Lodge is a supporter of NGOs such as Guaruma, where we teach kids environmental awareness. In addition our kids have won major photo contests held abroad. They are also taught computer science.
Helping Honduras Kids provides education to the kids on the river who cannot get to the town schools and HHK also looks after 20 plus orphans in the City of La Ceiba.

Promotional message

2010-01-17T18:14:00.002-07:00

Just outside La Ceiba, you will find Villas Pico Bonito on the incredible Rio Cangrejal in the Honduran Jungle. Villas Pico Bonito is nestled on the banks of this beautiful river, just minutes from many hiking trails, white water rafting and zip lines in the Pico Bonito National Park. This park is home to many different animals and exotic birds making the area perfect for bird watching. Across the river we have a spectacular view of the largest waterfall on the river La Cascada, El Bejuco. A hike up to the falls is a great way to spend your day. Villas Pico Bonito offers self contained homes and apartments with full kitchens and wonderful views of the waterfall, river and the jungle cliffs of the park. Want to relax and take it easy? Sun and swim in the most beautiful infinity pool in all of Honduras and dine at our Hidden Paradise Bar and Grill. Let us pamper you with our full concierge service which include arranging tours to all the wonderful Eco destinations close by. Come and enjoy our beautiful jungle hide away and La Cuenca Cangrejal. We welcome you to our hidden paradise.

New Pricing

2010-01-02T05:02:00.004-07:00

Rates per night January 2010 through March 31^st 2010

El Disco $175.00 (2 bedrooms, queen beds, 2 bath, full kitchen)

El Bejuco $125.00 (1 bedroom, queen bed, 1 bath, 1 double sleeper sofa, full kitchen)

Del Rio $95.00 (1 queen bed, 1 bath, 1 double sleeper sofa)

Gate House $35.00 (2 double beds, bath, full kitchen)

La Casita $65.00 (2 bedrooms, queen beds, 1 bath, full kitchen)

Villa Cangrejal $150.00 (2 bedrooms, 1 queen bed, 2 single beds, 1 bath, full kitchen)

Jungle Room $85.00 (Studio, 2 queen beds, 1 bath, kitchenette)

Combination of Cangrejal & Jungle Room $195.00

4 people per Villa, $15.00 for extra person, no exceptions!

Please add 16% tax per night.

Semana Santa week, please add 25% to these rates.

Email for discounts available for longer stays.

trip advisor check this out.

2009-11-10T07:45:00.004-07:00

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g292023-d1116598-Reviews-Villas_Pico_Bonito-La_Ceiba.html

We are very happy to make other people happy!

Richard

Great videos of Honduras by the Institute of Tourism

2009-10-27T07:45:00.003-06:00

Paste this URL

http://vimeo.com/channels/visithonduras

These are short movies of Honduras and are very informative.

Come on down to Honduras!

2009-10-23T06:57:00.001-06:00

The number of tourists visiting Honduras has bottomed out. The political crisis has taken a big toll on the travel industry. However, and despite all the travel warnings and advisories discouraging travel to Honduras, I must say that this is the best time to visit Honduras. Discounted fares, hosts willing to go out of their way to make sure you have the time of your life, un-crowded ruins, beaches and reefs are all waiting for you to enjoy.

Throughout the country there is peace and calm, and the roads are all open, making it easy to go from one city to the other. Whenever there are protests, these are limited to the capital city, Tegucigalpa and very, very occasionally to San Pedro Sula. The tourist destinations of Copan Ruinas, Tela, La Ceiba, Utila, Roatan, Trujillo, Guanaja, Lake Yojoa and Southern Honduras are far away from the political scene and at their best.

As far as the weather is concerned, this has been an “el niño” year, and its effect on Honduras has been less rain than normal. This means that the weather, which can be very rainy, especially on the North Coast, has been extremely pleasant, with lovely clear blue skies during the day and an occasional shower early in the evening. Nice warm weather and a lovely sun to tan your skin and cool nights to sleep well.

Take advantage and visit Honduras, you will really enjoy it!

Price reduction on Villas until December

2009-10-12T09:46:00.002-06:00

Villas Pico Bonito now offers room rates at 50% discount. The western press and the US state department have put out so much misinformation about Honduras that we are seeing a huge drop in tourism.
Honduras is safer than ever. The press makes it look like there are riots everywhere in Honduras. This is false. You can safely travel to Copan Ruinas, La Ceiba's Rio Cangrejal valley and all the Bay Islands.
I have heard of no problems with tourists and their travels in these areas.

Pricing starts at $30 for the Gate House $40 for the Casita, $44 for the Jungle Room, $55 for Del Rio, $80 for El Bejuco, $100 for the Villa Cangrejal and $115 for the Champa El Disco or $60 for one of the rooms in El Disco. plus 16% tax for the government. All units have kitchens, including refrigerators, large bathrooms with hot water and coffee and cold fresh water supplied. Maid service available at no extra charge.

Check the web site for more information www.villaspicobonito.com

Monkeys

2009-10-11T10:17:00.003-06:00

These are the first monkeys we have seen at Villas Pico Bonito!

Toucans nesting

2009-09-04T09:23:00.002-06:00

We have a whole flock of Toucans around here and at least on pair is nesting close to the casa. Tough to see them but they are there. I will try for photos.

the gatehouse

2009-08-22T06:43:00.004-06:00

This was the old caretakers house on the hill. it has been redone as a less expensive place to stay in Villas Pico Bonito

The new Villa cangrejal

2009-08-15T07:36:00.003-06:00

The interior set up again after the remodel. You can see the new roof and gable end with extra screened ventilation. The turtles in the pool under the deck. The pool is now filled with tilapia! The turtles will be moved back to their little pool next to the swimming pool.

The new Villa Cangrejal

2009-08-06T10:13:00.003-06:00

We have just finished a renovation of the Villa Cangrejal. Yes already! The Villa is less than a year old yet we feel that this remodel will appeal to all. We redid 2/3rds of the roof and extended the roof over the balcony as in the El Bejuco and Carriage House. This allows for a much more usable deck. If you want sun go hang out at the pool!

Casita

2009-07-12T20:03:00.009-06:00

The real Rio Cangrejal

2009-06-10T06:34:00.007-06:00

Here is a movie --- please copy and paste --- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9hNoCEOyx8
of photos I have taken of our amazing river, all were taken at or within a mile or so of Villas Pico Bonito. The river is raftable 99% of the time but when she floods, look out!!!
This is a wonderful river, full of different moods and colours depending on level and time of the year. The Rio tends to change its path after a high flood making it more interesting. The last big flood washed out a small part of the road and it was not passable for an hour or so while the locals piled rocks and stones to make a path way through.

Back to normal

2009-06-07T08:14:00.002-06:00

All is back to normal after our Terremoto. This was the last thing we expected! Hurricanes, depressions, landslides, that goes on in our hemisphere but a quake here?
I went through the Landers, Big Bear and North Ridge. Not much fun! Honduras is not known for its seismic activity. That goes on with our neighbours.
Still we had a quake in Texas near Dallas the other day and they had one in the UK too so I guess it can happen anywhere.
Come on down to our Hidden Paradise, we would love to see you!

Roatan quake

2009-05-30T09:19:00.002-06:00

We had a few small aftershocks.
All in all everything is normal with the exception of the El Progresso bridge. Even that is still open as traffic is being diverted to the other lanes on a separate span.
The are rumors that fuel may be rationed but that has not happened either.
VPB rocks on!!

Quake

2009-05-28T10:36:00.002-06:00

The Roatan Quake woke up Ana as I am in the US at the moment. Skyped me as soon as it happened, very scary as it was no small terremoto.
Waited for her to wake up again in the morning to inspect the Villas.
No damage thankfully.
All is well in Villas Pico Bonito

Bird watching Oropendolas

2009-05-12T17:39:00.004-06:00

Here at Villas Pico Bonito we have a new colony of Oropendolas and we love them!

Gate house renovation

2009-05-07T06:36:00.004-06:00

The gatehouse will be used as a residence for the Restaurant Manager. The conversion consists of changes to 3 rooms. The upper level which is now a living and sleeping area. The lower level which is now the bath room and Kitchen. The separate building which was the kitchen and is now the laundry room.

This will allow the Casita to be rented to guests. It is a two bedroom one bath apartment with full kitchen and living room. I will post photos when the move is complete.

Thank you for this nice write up!

2009-04-22T08:07:00.002-06:00

Our family (2 adults, 3 children) just returned from a relaxing, but all too brief, visit to the newly- constructed Villas Pico Bonito, perched a stone throw above the muscular Rio Cangrejal.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tripletango/sets/72157606224330005/

Adjacent to the national park, this splendid but environmentally unobtrusive resort sits amidst abundant wildlife with superb birding. And, for those in quest of an adventure, it is well situated, just a 5 minute walk to a water rafting outfit plus a 9-component jungle zip line. You can swim in the invigorating fast river or in the pool by the thatched restaurant/bar. The latter provides all meals, save breakfast, and the food is top-notch.

Our fully equipped villa- with 5 varieties of jungle wood flooring- was delightfully decorated, spotless and, astonishingly, bug free. On the back porch, there is a magnificent view of an impressive waterfall atop the mountain. Not unexpectedly given the setting, there is no need for A/C and at night the river roar is a delightful sedative. Moreover, the lush grounds are rich in a diversity of flora, a particular interest of the owner and exemplary host, Richard Adamson. Speaking of whom, Richard resides there so he is readily available, a wellspring of information about all aspects of Honduras, such as the people, travel, government …etc. In our opinion, his extraordinary hospitality alone makes this resort a frontrunner over other vacation lodges in CA.

The only trivial shortcoming, and assuredly this will be remedied, is a lack of on-site books and pamphlets on Honduras, especially those devoted to its inimitable biodiversity. Also, a sign-in travel journal or log for the quests wherein one could relate interesting experiences and recommendations would be helpful.

This is a truly wonderful resort.

* My ratings for this hotel are:

o 5 of 5 stars Value

o 5 of 5 stars Rooms

o 5 of 5 stars Location

o 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness

o 5 of 5 stars Service

* Date of Stay: March 2009

* Visit was for: Leisure

* Traveling group: Family with Young Children

* Member since: May 22, 2006

* Would you recommend this hotel to a friend? Yes

More Flowers

2009-04-20T16:06:00.005-06:00

Flowers of Villas Pico Bonito

2009-04-11T08:54:00.004-06:00

finished

2009-02-23T16:21:00.012-07:00

Here are some views of Villas Cangrejal, the jungle room, El Bejuco and Del Rio.

Drawing ever closer, finishing it off

2009-02-09T15:35:00.005-07:00

Finishing out Villa Cangrejal and Jungle room

2009-02-05T02:52:00.006-07:00

It is raining today so we have a many workers inside. Beam chipping ready for tile. Wall smoothing ready for paint. Vanity tiled, ready for installation. Ceiling painted ready for lights and fans. All electrical circuits and plumbing up and running. Bathroom tiled and fixtures installed.

Bidet shifted away from wall tile repaired ready for reinstall.

Floor varnishing underweigh

Super Bowl in Jungle

2009-02-02T04:42:00.001-07:00

Finishing out

2009-02-01T06:42:00.003-07:00

New railing around pool for safety.
Bath in Jungle RoomBed in Del Rio
Tiling vanity in Jungle Room
Constructing screens for wooden windows in Cangrejal units

Blood sweat and fun

2009-01-27T12:02:00.004-07:00

These guys built the whole place including the pool with absolutely no help from machines except an occasional use of a small cement mixer for big floor pours.
Really remarkable what you can do when challenged.

End in sight

2009-01-27T03:59:00.004-07:00

The end of construction is coming upon us -- thankfully.

Villa El Bejuco is finished

2009-01-15T05:18:00.002-07:00

The pool is finished!

2009-01-06T05:13:00.009-07:00

It is finished!

motmot

2008-12-27T04:53:00.003-07:00

We have a pair nesting in the ravine. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

Our guests love the place

2008-12-26T17:27:00.005-07:00

A rafter's delight

2008-12-21T03:11:00.006-07:00

The river is now perfect for rafting. After heavy rains last week, a break in the weather has left the river with plenty of water that is clean and fast flowing.

Villas Pico Bonito offers easy access to some of the best white water rafting in Central America. The Cangrejal river offers class II, III and IV rapids.

In addition to the exciting rapids, Villas Pico Bonito is in the Pico Bonito national park, which features more than 7 different ecosystems.
Come and enjoy the lush green forests of Honduras!

Dec 11th ever wonder why things slow down when you want to finish a project??

2008-12-11T08:48:00.008-07:00

When a cold front reaches here all the way from the Arctic through the USA and on down. Here a few pictures showing that there is a lot of moisture in them thar clouds in the Caribbean! A cold front is the perfect precipitator of rain events! Thunder and lightning yes, tornados not seen one yet. Living in TX when I am not here, it is a relief that there are none to speak of down here!

Anyway we are working on the inside of the down river apartments and the lads are tenting the bodega so we can pour the rest of the support beams for the roof/parking area.

Return to Honduras Dec 10th 2008

2008-12-10T12:16:00.007-07:00

One things for sure the pool is very close to being filled and in use!
I said that it was close in October but you have no idea just how difficult a job building a pool is. We way over engineered this project and used untrained labor that was taught what we wanted as time went by building the project.
Any way check it out
The deck is really just what we needed,
It is beautiful, it is functional and it is safe when wet so no slipping and falling except into the pool!

The Cangrejal eco system

2008-12-08T06:01:00.002-07:00

Here are two posters generated by the youngsters at Guaruma. They show the beauty of the river valley and the diverse animal population of this remarkable area.

December 7th 2008

2008-12-07T06:57:00.007-07:00

The pool deck is poured. We have good weather coming this week so we will apply the color coat and then fill with water!
The apartments that are open and available now are El Disco our Honduran Champa.
The carriage house is also complete and with the completion of the pool there will be no further construction on this part of the property which encompasses the pool, the Champa, the bar and barbecue as well as the Carriage house and office casita.
The adjacent property will have 3 more units complete before Christmas.
The Villa Cangrejal, EL Bejuco and Del Rio will be available very soon with the completion Jungle Room Studio right behind.
Villas Pico Bonito Is ready for the season!

Update December 1st 2008

2008-11-30T10:29:00.006-07:00

Fascia board prepped for Villa CangrejalBodega walls and columns up ready for parking area floor to be poured as a roof
Tent over stamped concrete deck for the pool
Coping and tile for the pool.
Actual colour of the deck matches coping.

In the USA until December 9th.

2008-11-22T05:05:00.014-07:00

We will be able to house guests in the 4 down river apartments from December 15th onward. Come join us in our hidden paradise.

The Pool deck is now poured as we have had a break in the weather. This photo is showing the installation of the final smoothing coat of cement that is needed before the color coat is applied.

Scaffolding around the four down river units is in place to finish the fascia on El Cangrejal which house the 2 bedroom apartment over the Jungle Room studio.

This will allow the installation of the gutters on both buildings.

Work is progressing on the finishing of the 2 car parking pad over the bodega. This will allow work to proceed on the Jungle Room as it is now being used as a storage area for tools , wood etc.

Work is ongoing on the retaining wall on the down river property.

This wall protects the buildings from the river floods and area above provides for a beautiful landscaped terrace in front of the building's patios.

Rainy season

2008-11-04T08:18:00.021-07:00

The river rages as Tropical Depression 16 dumps billions of gallons of rain on Honduras. Here is a photo of the Cangrejal in flood. Nothing like as big as during Mitch but big enough to wipe out parts of the road.

We have been lucky here in La Ceiba, the Rio Cangrejal was relatively kind.

For a day we were without power, thankfully the lines remained up but shorted by tree limbs. The small generator kept our food and beer cold.
Not so lucky was the western part of the country. They say the damage there was worse than Mitch.
Relative to Depression 16 the river was about 15 feet higher during Mitch for a short period of time at Villas Pico Bonito.
The river is a typical Jungle river. From crystal water gently flowing to a raging destructive torrent in less than a day.

The road is slowly being eaten up in the photo. My friend david had to make a plane and walked the road up to his waist in flood water. A lucky rafting guide, he did make it and got to his flight in time

Here are the local people trying to get to La Ceiba. We had a gang of young lads that were rebuilding a small track with stones and sand that a car could bump its way down to the good part of the road.
They charged a small fee which I was happy to pay!

We have not been able to work on the pool for nearly a month. Instead we have been finishing out the interiors of the 4 units on the downriver property.

We have to install the 3 reading lights yet.
This is the back side of the living room accent wall in Villa El Bejuco a beautiful one bedroom apartment.
It will be the head board of a nice queen bed.

We have moved all working tools out of el bejuco and Villa cangrejal to the Jungle room studio getting ready to rearrange all the furniture I have bought for the units.

The Sun came out today.

Now we are working outside again. The pool is being rapello'd with a scrim of cement , ready for the color finish. We will pour the deck, stamp it with a nice design in a neutral cool color and apply the Hydrazzo color coat soon.
The pump house is also ready for the instalation of the filter , pumps and electrical as well.

Here are some photos of the landscaping
Check the color of the river now!
Beautiful.

Pool

2008-10-01T16:51:00.003-06:00

The pool is almost finished. This has been by far the hardest job we tackled in the whole project. It ended up costing about 3 times my estimate but it is going to be a beauty!

55 feet by 25 feet, wet sun bathing area and beach entry keep the design at the cutting edge. At night 3 lazer light streams flood back into the pool from the negative edge. Really remarkable!

The bar and grill just opened and is beginning to draw customers, 1/2 lb hamburgers, 12 oz USDA steaks and Ana's specials guarantee satisfaction. We didn't have to cook a thing, customers enjoyed using our ultra special grill with special searing section and huge cooking surface, plenty of room for all. If you prefer charcoal just fire up the charcoal grill and enjoy!

While focusing on the completion of the pool, we are completing the 4 apartments and should have them finished soon. Painting continuing on all, screen porch is being installed on Del Rio. Retaining wall moving along and fridges and stoves installed. All doors now prepared and many hung. next week we start the completion of the ceramics and installation of the sinks, toilets and bidet in the bathrooms. Electrical well on the way so the light at the end of the tunnel ain't a train!

Light at the end of the tunnel

2008-09-26T06:13:00.003-06:00

Happily we have had our second set of guests and they stayed in the Champa El Disco. It was hard for them to leave! Comments included that Villas Pico Bonito was the class of the Pico Bonito National Park, no one else came close. Reasonable price compared to competition and vastly superior construction.

What they liked was that we are close to La Ceiba, and all the surrounding attractions. Especially important was that we are located on the Rio Cangrejal and its beautiful views, yet right across the river is the cloud forest Jungle.

The beauty of the place, the views and landscaping was commented on as being superb. "When I am gone I hope heaven is like this!" said one guest.

Progress includes the completion of the Okole Maluna Bar y Grill with the delivery of the beer cooler and typico tables.

Time table for completion of the pool is 4 weeks, Villas Cangrejal, El Bejuco, Del Rio and the Jungle room are still at least month away. All will be ready for the holiday seasons.

Canny Lass our 47 foot Catamaran survived Hurricane Ike, while having repairs done in Kemah TX. A miracle considering she was in the Eye of Hurricane Ike. She will be in La Ceiba at the beginning of December.

First party at Villas Pico Bonito! Last Saturday we broke in the bar. What a great party. Every one had a great time.

Check the web site www.villaspicobonito.com for latest photos of each project under the "see more" label.