Frequently Asked TRip Questions
What airport do we use?
All groups need to use XPL (sometimes referred to as Comayagua, Palmerola, or even Tegucigalpa depending on teh airline/search used) There is a TGU airport, for Tegucigalpa, but that is closed to international travel now. XPL is the closest international airport to us, approximately 1.5 hours away.
What airline should we use?
Currently only American or United are good viable options.
Is there a specific travel agent we need to use?
No. You can use a travel agent if you like, but generally we have found that the cheaper prices are available straight from the airline's own website.
What kind of baggage rules are there for the airline?
It varies from airline to airline, different seasons, and more. Check very carefully...how many bags are allowed, what type are allowed (bins sometimes are not) etc.
What kind of supplies/stuff should we bring with us?
We are always in need of items, but it is best to check with us on a trip by trip basis. It is currently not a good idea to bring any medicine with you other than what you plan to use, as permits and such are required for bringing in anything medical. To talk more about this, and more...email us.
What days are best to arrive and depart?
For us, flexibility is key, but after having done this for a while, Saturday to Saturday dates tend to be most favorable for most groups due to participant's vacation schedules, and thus the vast majority of our scheduling revolves around this.
However, due to many other factors you may face (including ticket pricing for flights), this can change. If you want to come Sunday to Sunday, we can make it work, although there would be some disadvantages, and some times of the year, it could be unavailable. If you have specific questions about your trip, contact us.
Does everyone need a passport?
Passport is 100% required! If you try to come with anything less, you wont make it past your departing airport the morning you are supposed to come. AND you need a minimum of six months before your passport expires (from the last day of your travel) or you will be denied checking in when you get to the airport as well! It has happened...be aware and check this well ahead of time as getting a passport or one renewed can take sometimes six to eight weeks or more.
Is there really a need for insurance while on a short term trip to Honduras?
Absolutely! All groups need to have short term mission insurance for hospitalization, luggage theft, etc. before they come. It is one of those things we all pray we never get to find out just how good it is, but have heard from unfortunate others that testify to its importance. We will provide you with the information where you need to go get that insurance.
The CDC recommends Chloroquine for Malaria. Do you concur or have a different recommendation?
We do not recommend taking malaria, as we have no malaria in the areas we serve, and the downsides to taking it are definitely not worth it for something we never see here. No one in our areas of work uses any medicine for malaria.
What are the recommended shots and/or inoculations for visiting Honduras?
1. tetanus
2. Hepatitis (food borne)
What is your recommended group size?
Ten is our minimum. Maximum is currently 45, but with time, we can accommodate many more. But, recommended? Really anywhere in that area, as it depends more on the planning stages than anything else as to what works best. We have had great experiences at all the different sizes.
Where do we stay?
We have facilities on our clinic campus purposefully built to host groups. Contact us for more specific information about how that looks, bedroom sizes, etc. and we even have pictures we can share of the facilities, what is included, etc.
Is there anything else we should know?
Absolutely! There is paperwork to fill out, details to go over, and lots of communication that starts months before you arrive. The best way to handle that is through one on one email communication though with the group leader, brainstorming and talking through things as time approaches. Contact us, we would love to help you every step of the way!