DonS3

Coxen Hole, Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

As far as ports, I have my biggest complaint here. We spent from 8 to 3 here (but "be back on board by 2:15"). What an absolutely gorgeous place. People around us - and us - did not stop raving. So, why then, such a short time? Why Carnival insists on stopping at Belize and does not increase the time at Roatan is beyond me and everyone with whom I spoke. Carnival has developed a pier and port completely for themselves (I think that is the case, anyway). Brand new with a decent number of stores. Fun shopping. Then just off from there is the private Carnival beach that words cannot describe. Just a lovely island and a lovely port area. My wife went zip-lining at a non-Carnival place - Pirates of the Caribbean (or some such name). She had a blast. However, by the time of her return we did not have much time to get to West End which we have heard such good things about. Also, what amounted to a 5 mile cab ride was $35 each. Seemed over-priced by a long shot.

George Town, Grand Cayman

We did the Stingray City Safari. While, "once was enough", it was a lot of fun and gave us some time to see the island and swim in the water and enjoy the stingrays. Had a good time. Port itself was fine. Had a drink and a snack - but I can't remember the name. Worst part of this was getting back on the boat. There were 4 security checks to get back aboard - that seems a bit much.

Cozumel, Mexico

Pretty good shopping at the port area. Ate at Pancho's Back Porch, or something like that. It was VERY good, and reasonably priced.

Belize City, Belize

I confess that I was somewhat influenced by the pretty much unanimous reviews before I went that this is a bad stop. We had decided to not do any activities and stay on the boat. We did get off and shop a bit. Within the "compound". Ate at a restaurant there (Wet Lizard?), was pretty good and decent local beer.