Tegucigalpa, the largest city in Honduras, also serves as both the department of Francisco Morazán's capital as well as the country's capital. Located in a valley surrounded by beautiful mountains, the bustling city of more than one million people often gets short-changed by visitors to the country on their way to the nearby historic ruins and national parks. But after spending some time in the city (especially away from the busy traffic routes), one can quickly see why its inhabitants are incredibly proud of it.
According Travel to Honduras, the city was founded by Spanish explorers as Real Villa de San Miguel de Heredia de Tegucigalpa in the mid-1500s, it eventually expanded due to the wealth from the successful gold and silver mines in the local mountains. As the city grew, the population spread down from the mountains over the Río Choluteca (which splits the city from north to south) and into its sister city, Comayagüela. Throughout the latter half of the 1800s, the capital of the country switched between Comayagua (51 miles northwest) and Tegucigalpa until it was officially settled in 1880.
Today, Tegucigalpa continues to expand far beyond its original colonial center and into the hilly terrain in its east and west. Much like other Central American cities, the main square (known as the Plaza Morazán) is still a lively place to meet friendly people or just have a seat to enjoy the view. Most of its main roads in and out of the city were expanded in the 1980s and continue to aid in the city's industries that range from textiles and clothing to ceramics and chemicals. But despite the fast pace and busy traffic, the winding streets are still lined with colorful houses that give the city its underlying charm.
InterContinental Real Tegucigalpa
This seven-floor luxury hotel is located in the center of the financial district on Avenida Roble across from the Mall MultiPlaza, one of Honduras' best shopping centers. According to its website, it provides 157 guestrooms and seven suites with upscale amenities designed for the business traveler that include valet, secretarial and courier services, high-speed Internet, state-of-the-art conference facilities and one of the best concierge services in the city. The executive and presidential suites provide additional luxuries such as panoramic views, separate living rooms, and Jacuzzis. The property also includes two on-site restaurants, a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and a full-service spa. This luxury hotel certainly lives up to its reputation.
Hotel Portal del Ángel
For visitors who prefer a smaller luxury hotel away from the larger hotel chains, this boutique hotel is the best choice. It is located in the Colonia Palmira on the Avenida República del Perú, just minutes away from the Boulevard Morazán. It provides 23 guestrooms and suites with dark-wood furniture, hardwood floors, luxury bedding, and private balconies, as stated on its website. But it is the small details that provide the overall charm for this hotel: Honduran paintings and handicrafts line the walls, cigars and fine wines are offered in the lounge, the lobby is decorated with angels and flowers (all designed by local artists) and the "no music and bar after 10 p.m." policy ensures guests receive a peaceful stay. The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant that serves Honduran dishes combined with European influences, a private swimming pool, and private shuttle service for activities such as shopping trips and historical excursions.
Marriott Hotel Tegucigalpa
Located in the financial district on the Boulevard Juan Pablo Segundo, this luxury hotel is near the Las Cascadas Mall and several museums. It offers 153 spacious guestrooms with city views and amenities for both the business and leisure traveler that include: high-speed Internet, 24-hour business center, full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool, and one of the best fitness centers in the city with its wide range of activities that range from yoga to pilates. The concierge service can also arrange a variety of excursions to any tourist attraction in the regional area. The property also includes an on-site restaurant, café, and a sports bar that includes live entertainment Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Clarion Hotel Real Tegucigalpa
This local landmark hotel is located in the center of the financial district on Boulevard Juan Pablo Segundo, less than a mile from the Presidential Palace and four miles from the Aeropuerto Internacional Toncontín. According to its website, it is a 2009 Choice Hotels Award Winner and provides 167 guestrooms with wireless Internet access, marble bathrooms and access to the fully-equipped fitness center, spa and outdoor swimming pool. The property also includes a business center, a convention center that can accommodate up to 800 guests and Las Cuatro Estaciones, which offers a variety of international cuisine in a casual-dining atmosphere. The executive floor offers its own front desk, executive lounge, concierge and butler service, complimentary breakfast and bar service.
Each of these hotels in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, offer luxury accommodations, and a variety of upscale amenities. With convenient locations that also provide guests with high-quality personal service, it is easy to understand why these are the best hotels in Tegucigalpa.
James Nalley - James Nalley is a full-time travel journalist whose work has been published in more than 100 magazines, journals and websites.
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