ROATAN ISLAND

Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands, is 39 miles long and 2
miles wide with numerous coves, close-in fringing reefs, and
23 associated keys.  Its heavily vegetated ribbed slopes rise
and fall sharply from summits of nearly 800 feet to white sand
beaches, mangrove stands, rocky shores, sandy grass beds and
other habitats - all teeming with life and untrammeled by
development that has overtaken much of the Caribbean.

The cultural heritage of Roatan is as rich and varied as its natural attractions.  The friendly population of some 20,000 is bi-lingual (English and Spanish) and descended from English colonists, freed African slaves, privateers of many nations, Spanish explorers, Black Caribs, Indians, and Central and North Americans.

Dear Greg:

    The Dolphin Research Camp at The Roatan Institute for Marine Science, Roatan, Honduras, left each and every camper(and parent) with something to think about.  The campers not only learned about dolphins and "training" such creatures, but also about the interrelatedness of all life.  No mean feat with a group of relatively privileged teens!  The fact that the staff challenged campers to consider ecological and environmental impacts testifies to their abilities and commitment.   Moreover campers and parents were able to enjoy and idyllic stay in an environment that is both precious and fragile.  After every dive the non-diving members of the group heard "it was even better than the last one!"  And at last one non-water-baby was enticed to change claustrophobia with some simple snorkeling.  We are actually saving our pennies to be able to return!

Sincerely,

Mary & Paul Meredith