the earthquake

At approximately 2:24 AM (central time) on May 28, a strong earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale occurred approximately 40 miles northeast of Roatan. The main event lasted for about 30 seconds, followed by multiple aftershocks lasting five to ten seconds each. Fortunately, considering the strength of the quake and its relative proximity to the island we have virtually no damage of any significance to report. I personally lost most of my collection of wine and martini glasses, but that's really no big deal. We have heard no reports of significant damage and/or injuries elsewhere on the island. Overall, I can report that -- besides the understandable alarm it caused -- the island got a free pass on this one.

My former wine and martini glasses. :(

paya from...

...a professional's photographer's perspective... amazing!

See more photos.

cruise & booze

Seems like Dad is getting into the "Feel Good, Be Happy" spirit at Paya Bay. His new slogan on the Kiton caught me a little by surprise, but I'm loving it!

the paya trail

These photos are of the portion of the trail that runs through the Tropical Garden Reserve.

Magical.

photo of the day

Approximately three quarters of the Big Beach is part of the Paya Resort property. This 'textile' beach is often visited by local Roatanians on weekends. They bring their families for picnics and swimming. See the resort map.

photo of the day

The lounge chairs on Lil Bay Beach are looking very inviting with their new cushions.

what's this?!

This is one of the new wireless routers we've installed in the bungalows area to allow wireless Internet access in the rooms. As long as the island's Internet system is "up" you should get excellent broadband wireless access to the Net in your room. Should the island system go "down," the wifi in the restaurant and main deck is a backup connection (it connects to our satellite Internet modem which is usually up 24/7). Internet access at Paya is free of charge. Yay!

a little bird's song

I was just walking back from Lil Bay Beach and recorded this on my cell phone. I'm not sure what bird sings this little song, but it is one of my favorites. Always makes me smile.

what's new

This morning we upgraded the lounge chairs on Lil Bay Beach with swanky new cushions! We outsourced the manufacturing of these cushions to a local "micro-business" ran by an African-Honduran lady. It is our policy to spread the tourist dollars into the immediate local community when possible so that more people can perceive the benefits of tourism (and -- hopefully -- as a result, understand the need to participate in preserving our reefs).

organic garden update

The broccoli plants seem to be doing surprisingly well in our warm climate.

The jalapeños are producing healthy looking peppers.

The mint bush is growing wild. Lots of fresh mint for mojitos!

photo of the day

Guests enjoy Lil Bay Beach during a Naturist Week
.