Under $100: Utila, Honduras

The island of Utila is renowned as a budget friendly choice for those who want to learn how to dive, and a thriving tourism industry has developed as a result.

Arise early and head for a light breakfast at Rio Coco Cafe ($10), but don’t overeat as you will be spending a good few hours at sea. Certified divers can head out on a one-day package to see the best of what Utila has to offer (approximately $45), while those without a certificate can go snorkeling around the nearby reefs.

After returning to land, make your way to the Jade Seahorse restaurant for a late lunch, and marvel at the intricate treehouse construction ($10). Climb down from its mystical surroundings before taking a stroll along the main street to the small beach, where you can swim some more or just relax on the sand.

Jade Seahorse © Micah MacAllen | Flickr

Dive courses may start early every day but that does not stop the nightlife on Utila from being famously raucous. Dinner and drinks at the Mango Inn ($15) will get you in the mood for a night at the Skid Row Bar. If you’ve got the stomach for it, take on the Skid Row Challenge ($10), which involves downing four shots of the local firewater, guifiti.

Successful participants walk away with the Skid Row vest ubiquitous among travelers in Central America, as well as a pounding headache the morning after. Finish your night at Tranquila Bar, which is anything but, especially on Tequila Tuesday (shots $3).