French Harbour Roatan
French Harbour is most probably the most lively community on the island bustling with tourists and islanders. One of the largest fishing fleets in the Western Carribbean, which is the economic driving force of the island is based in French Harbour. Banks like BGA, Lafise, Banco Atlantida have their offices here. BGA and Banco Atlantida also offers cash advances on the credit card. There are several hotels offering a comfortable stay in French Harbour but accommodation is specially recommended in Fantasy Island, Casa Romeo's, and El Faro. H20, one of the discotheques on the island is also located nearby. The discotheque is open from Thursdays and Sundays.
A short distance away, towards the east lie the Fantasy Island Beach Resort, Marina and the Coco View Resort. Marina and the Coco View Resort are the most exclusive resorts on the island. These two resorts offers a variety of water sports which includes deep-sea fishing, sailing and wave runners. Located on the opposite of French Harbour, is the Palmetto Bay Resort which offers excellent accommodations that comprise of beautiful rooms, well groomed extensive gardens and a fantastic Carribbean beach. This resort has already won the hearts of many tourists who come to the island in search of first class accommodation in a private, isolated environment away from the common din.
A local islander has established his own Iguana reserve on the outskirts of French Harbour. The owner Arch states that there are more than 2,800 Iguanas of 4 variety of species on his property in French Key. It is simple getting to the Iguana farm if one takes the road going east from French Harbour ontowards the Fantasy Island Hotel. A clearly marked sign showing a bypass towards the farm can be seen. There is a charge of entrance fees of about 1.00 USD per head. Souvenirs and photographing adds the worth to the visit. Arch started this Iguana sanctuary out of his personal interest and appreciation for the reptiles and visiting him will help him continue his conservation efforts.
The Jungle Canopy tour is a new attraction in the area and is placed on the road leading towards Palmetto Bay Plantation. A friendly staff guides one through 20 different platforms where one can enjoy some of the native nature and scenic views of the Carribbean Sea. The Jungle Canopy tour is open daily between 8:00 am to 4:00 pm with an exception to Sundays, when it is opened only till noon. The tour takes from about 45 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the group, and it costs 45.00 USD per person. A pleasant jungle bar is located at the end of the canopy where one can take a drink and relax before heading back to the hotel.