Guanaja - Bonacca, the Venice of Honduras!

The main settlement of Guanaja is called Bonacca or Guanaja Town. Settled in the early 1800's by immigrants from the Cayman Islands, it's not even located on the main island and instead lies roughly one-half mile off the south side of the island. It is now completely built over with homes, businesses and 6000 residents live there. To say that it is over crowded is an understatement as homes are even being built on stilts over the water.



Bonacca, is sometimes referred to as the "Venice" of Honduras, as there are no roads, just paths and walkways over the water and it is the primary business center of the island. The town boasts a bank, western union, several stores, hotels and restaurants in addition to fueling stations along with the main dock where the supply boats land every Friday.

We were there on supply boat day and it was quite the treat to see them unload all the fresh "goodies". All the locals make sure to be there on supply Friday!

After investigating the cay we visited the Pirates's Den for a cool beverage and to take in some of the local color. I had my picture taken with the only police officer we could find on the island and he was pleased to accomodate the crazy "gringa" lady!

Of course, no trip to Bonacca would be complete without picking up a bottle of Rum. The famous Flor de Cana, made in Nicaragua from sugar cane, is our pick of the day. The smooth flavor of the 7 year aged rum doesn't even need a mixer, just a bit of ice, it is very smooth!



Zapata's on the waterfront is a great place to pick up your food and rum, just be sure to plan your trip so you don't come at siesta time between noon and 2:00pm!

Life is easy to manage in Guanaja, you just have to know the rules!