Do We Stay or Do We Leave?

By Don Pearly
Many people, myself included, made the big move to the enchanting island of Roatan for multiple reasons, mainly a better quality of life. Quality of life encompasses many issues including the weather, traffic, commuting time, exposure to crime, schools, health care and friendly neighbors. Depending on personal factors, some of these areas are more important than others.

Over the past couple of years there has been a noticeable decline in the strength and draw of some of those issues. However, these same areas of life have also crumbled back in the States. Meaning the net results, to live on a tropical island with fabulous weather, almost zero traffic problems (except in Coxen Hole when a cruise ship is in), very little crime, excellent private schools, great doctors with low rates, prescription drugs at give-away prices and warm friendly neighbors gives the trophy to Roatan.

Sure tourism is down for some, but still, those who have managed to harness the power of the cruise ship traffic are flourishing. Real Estate is still a viable business even though it has most assuredly slowed down. The big guys such as Infinity Bay, Blue Harbor, Parrot Tree and Dan Taylor’s Plantation are still doing excellent business. Many smaller transactions are going on, and people are still filing for new business licenses and building permits. The new mall is up and running and looking good.

Fixed Income Folks
How about a big ‘Thank God’ you have any guaranteed income at all? Because of the practically non-existent infrastructure in Honduras, there is no social security check, un-employment check, or aid to dependant children coming to the local people. Many of them now depend on Gringos hiring them to help run their businesses and around the house. We do make a difference and we should try in every way possible to keep up the good work until the economy returns. Don’t lay-off that Jardinero or watchman unless you absolutely have to.

Food for Thought
In America it is not at all un-common to find a McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s. K.F.C., Cain’s, Sonic Burger, Pizza Hut, Cicero’s, Dominos, Watta Burger, Applebee’s, Ruby Tuesday, T.G.I.F., Caesars’ Pizza, In and Out Burgers, Tommy’s, Cupids, Pinks, Popie’s and a few others functioning on the same block. So, what do you think hit the streets, 5 Guys Hamburgers. What’s the gimmick that will make this one work? A lack of gimmicks, just plain and simple delicious hamburgers and fries. Go figure. What am I alluding to? There is always room for good food on the island. People eat each and every day and they need variety. Bring that franchise in or open some unique restaurant of your own.

Also, boats, scooters, motorcycles, and cars are always needed, so how about an auto center with factory trained mechanics? Think of something to bring the economy back to the island. This is home gang.