Let’s face it. No matter where you are in the world, there will be risks and dangers associated with being a tourist. Fortunately, you can adapt these common sense measures to protect yourself from malicious human elements in Tela whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of this resort town by the Caribbean.
Advice for Women
Honduran society prides itself on being macho. As such, women can sometimes be the target of whistles and catcalls in the streets of Tela although oftentimes made in good-natured appreciation. However, it is a wise idea to ignore them and just go on walking since paying them attention only worsens the situation. You must also dress appropriately in public. Although modest bikinis are allowed on the beaches of Tela, dress according to the occasion elsewhere lest you call negative attention to yourself.
Most important, avoid direct eye contact when conversing with the males in Tela. It is not a question of respect but of avoiding unnecessary aggravations brought by miscommunication. In Tela, as in anywhere in Honduras, direct eye contact with a male may be construed as a sexual invitation by the female! And no matter what you do, don’t walk the streets and beaches of Tela alone at night! This is common sense even in a small resort town like Tela and one that will serve you even in the larger cities of Tegucigalpa.
Cash Sense
No matter how well-off you are, don’t flash your cash around. Instead, only carry what you need for the day and leave the rest in your securely-locked hotel room. When on the beach, always ensure that somebody is watching your things since passing thieves can make a victim out of you. In the same way, don’t flash flashy jewelry around! You are on vacation, not on the runway, anyway. Of course, the Tourist Police is doing a good job of making Tela safe for tourists but it always pays to be vigilant even when you are enjoying your vacation.
Besides, Tela is a small town so oftentimes there is no need to carry money for transportation and other incidental expenses. Use your feet or ride a bike to go around, both of which require little to no money. As to people on the streets asking for dole-outs, Tela does not have this problem as worse as in larger cities since most Hondurans are too proud to beg. However, if you do encounter such a situation, just say “no gracias” and move on. The poverty in Honduras is painful to witness for most Westerners but you will be doing more good if you just contribute money to organizations with worthwhile causes in Honduras.
Also, try to avoid eating in ramshackle sidewalk eateries as you never know the bacteria that may thrive in these places. Instead, opt for hotels and reputable restaurants when and where possible. And it pays to drink bottled water, too! Although Tela is well-serviced by medical practitioners, you cannot afford to get sick on your vacation even when you have travel insurance.
You must use your good judgment and common sense to protect yourself no matter where you are in the world. Tela is no exception to the rule, as paradise-like as its beaches may seem.
