I have returned from a three week visit to one of the Trujillo Honduras hotels and bars, on the north coast of Honduras, with a passion for the local rum. This isn’t a strange occurrence for a recent returnee from the Caribbean!
So what is so great about Caribbean rum?
Part of what I love about rum is the taste, but part of it is the culture surrounding it. Rum, as you may know, was invented in the Caribbean and is rightfully the national drink of the region. It works fantastically with the flavors and textures of the local cuisine, probably because it is made from the juice of sugar cane, a crop grown in most Caribbean destinations. Since I’ve come back I’ve heard from friends that rum recipes differ greatly in different parts of the Caribbean but the brand I have fallen in love with is Flor De Cana (flower of sugar cane).
Flor De Cana, is originally from Nicaragua, but has been taken deeply into the busom of Honduran culture since moving a large distillery there in the 1960s. Hardcore rum buffs will be appalled by this, but before my stay at the Banana Beach hotel and resort in Trujillo Bay I had never come across the stuff. I didn’t know what I was missing!
What I loved most is it completes the Caribbean experience:
- Beautiful beach… check
- Relaxed beach bar… check
- Amazing weather… check
- Service with a smile… check
- Complete relaxation… check
- Lovely Caribbean rum… check!
My experience of the Caribbean has probably been colored slightly by my stay at what I think is the best offering of Trujillo Honduras hotels and bars!
Another lesser known local beverage, is without doubt an experience I will not repeat! Whilst visiting San Antonio, a nearby Garifuna town, I was advised to visit the mayor at his beach bar. A great recommendation, lovely few hours spent talking to interesting and friendly people. While there I was convinced to try a local brew called Guifity.
Locals also argue that it leaves you with virtually no hangover the next day and that one shot of Guifity can cure a hangover! While the healing powers of Guifity may be impressive, the taste is a little hard to take – I found out later it is much improved by lime!
So now I have given you the pitch, go for a Caribbean journey of your own, it is well worth the experience.