Honduras
Honduras was the original banana republic and is still one of the least developed and industrialized countries in Central America. Despite its turbulent political history, the poor cousin of the region has barely registered on the Western radar, apart from its short role in the 1980s as a breeding ground for US covert operations. The slow pace, natural beauty and low-profile tourism make it particularly appealing to travelers (well-armed with insect repellent) who enjoy getting off the beaten track. However, the country was devastated by one of the strongest hurricanes of the 20th century - Hurricane Mitch in October 1998. Thanks to international relief efforts, much of the infrastructure has now been repaired and tourism has returned to pre-Mitch levels.

Full country name: Republic of Honduras
Area: 112,492 sq km (43,870 sq mi)
Population: 6,249,598 (growth rate 2.5%)
Capital city: Tegucigalpa (pop 1 million+)
People: 90% mestizo, 7% Indian
Language: Spanish, Creole English and Indian dialects
Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, plus other Christian sects and indigenous forms of worship
Government: Constitutional democracy
President: Ricardo Maduro

GDP: US$14.1 billion
GDP per head: US$2,050
Annual growth: -3%
Inflation: 14%
Major industries: Coffee, bananas, beef, sugar cane, tobacco, forestry
Major trading partners: EU, USA, Japan