Frequently Asked TRip Questions

What airport do we use now?
Well, all groups now have to come into XPL, not TGU.  That airport (TGU) is closed to international travel, and XPL is the closest airport to us, even though it is about an hour and a half away.  
 
What airline should we use?
Currently only American or United are good viable options.  We don't recommend Spirit, and Delta is not currently serving XPL

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?
In terms of what you can bring with you, it varies.  Always check with the airline you are using, and read the rules carefully, even calling them ahead of time is a good idea depending on...1. How much you are bringing and the cost as well as paying ahead of time availability 2.  What you are planning on bringing (are black bins or duffel bags allowed, or do they have to be suitcases?)  3.  Are there any special rules for the time of year we are travelling?  Airline rules can change with frequency.  Being able to bring the supplies you will need as a team might need to be part of your budget depending on what you find out.   

What kind 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.  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. If you have specific questions about your trip, contact us.

Will each participant need a passport or will a birth certificate and driver's license suffice?
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 and the beginning date of your trip also or you will be denied boarding with any of the airlines.  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?
Some people who want to feel especially secure can make the expense for this medicine if they choose; however,  we have never seen malaria in any of the areas we have been to here in Honduras. We never personally take the medication, nor know anyone who lives that has. 

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 around 40.  Recommended?  Anything from 10-40.  We have had great experiences on all ranges of that spectrum.  

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.  

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!
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