I stayed at Hotel Chillies on a recommendation from a friend from March 29-April 6, 2024, as a solo traveller. It was my first time to Roatan. Being inquisitive and a planner, I booked Chillies over email and asked many questions, all of which were answered by Michele, the owner, quickly and thoroughly.

Timely communication is important to me as a traveller, and Michele exceeded my expectations.

I arrived later in the day on Good Friday and Michele gave me my key and, since the office was closed, told me not to worry about the deposit or paperwork and go get dinner. That laid-back, island vibe is EXACTLY what I was hoping for, and that was the last moment I felt like I was travelling on my own – you're not a stranger for long at Chillies.

The staff and people are so friendly, the cabins are on a shared path that encourages saying hello to your neighbours, and the common areas at the tasty and affordable restaurant (Yahongreh) and fantastic Dive Shop (Native Sons) create an old-school hostel atmosphere that encourages conversation and camaraderie that this old backpacker hasn't experienced since the days before cell phones (though wifi is strong throughout).

I immediately felt right at home.

The cabins (I was in #6) are under a canopy of trees, providing plenty of shade, and my cabin was just the right size. It had a great porch with a hammock and chairs for lounging and napping, and a line for drying clothes. Although it had no air conditioning, a strong ceiling fan kept me more than comfortable at night. Hard-working staff change the sheets and tidy things up every day.

The location in West End is fantastic. There's a beach and bars/food across the street, but you're far enough away from the busiest areas of West End to maintain that laid-back feel, though you're just a minute from the action on foot. A grocery store is just a couple doors down for snacks, drinks, etc.

I obtained my PADI Open Water dive certificate with Native Sons Dive Shop, located at the front of Hotel Chillies and under the same ownership (so no need to pay as you go, it all got added to the same tab – very convenient!). To say the experience was incredible is an understatement. My Dive Master Kasey was kind, funny and patient, but wouldn't hesitate to challenge me to get out of my comfort zone and complete aspects of the training that I struggled with.

She helped me do achieve something I'd always dreamed, and it was such a great experience.

Over three days, I dove four times to obtain my PADI and then did four more recreational dives with Native Sons, with Dive Masters Eddie, Alex and Germaine, and all were fantastic leaders, helping me along as I continued to gain experience. I highly recommend diving with Native Sons, even if you're not staying at Chillies.

I can't wait until my next trip to Roatan and I'll definitely be staying with my friends at Hotel Chillies next time!