The U.S. Department of State considers crime "endemic" in Honduras. The most common crimes usually involve robbery. In urban areas, pickpockets and robbers target visitors. For example, tourists are most vulnerable when coming and going from areas that make the fact they are visiting more obvious, such hotels and airports. The U.S. government recommends that you not carry valuables in easy to reach areas such as backpacks or pockets; rather, conceal them on your person as best you can.
When driving, keep doors and windows locked and closed. Teams of criminals sometimes work together and have targeted tourists on isolated roadways as well as busy streets when traffic causes congestion.
Kidnapping can also occur. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs has reports of tourists (many of them U.S. citizens) who, when visiting wealthy areas, having been kidnapped for ransom. U.S. citizens are often considered affluent by locals, even if not by American standards. Be aware of your surroundings when entering or exiting anywhere and limit how much personal information you share. Stay in contact with someone at home so they know where and when you are supposed to be at any given place.
Pollution is a problem in many urban areas, which may pose health issues for people with respiratory trouble. Water purity is questionable, to err on the side of caution and avoid tap water. The World Health Organization recommends you drink bottled water and ice made from bottled water. Make sure nothing you eat or drink has been run under plain tap water and remember that some frozen drinks may have been made with ice. Rather, wash fruits and vegetables with purified water and detergent. There are no strict regulations for food made by street vendors, so take care where you eat.
