A Purpose Life

Day 4 on Icon of the Seas | Roatán, Honduras 🇭🇳

Today’s port was Roatán, and I made sure to step fully into the experience with a Monkey, Sloth, and Snorkelling excursion.

The day started with a guided walk through the animal park, where we learned about the wildlife and local environment. One of the monkeys even managed to pull out one of my braids, which gave us all a good laugh.

From there, we headed out by boat to snorkel along part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest reef system in the world, stretching across Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.

I will be honest.
Wearing flippers felt strange.
Being that far out in open water felt even stranger.

Although I learned to swim last year, this was my first time ever being in open water like that, not even back home in Barbados. When it was time to get off the boat, fear definitely showed up. I geared up, got into the water, and then quickly climbed right back out.
But this is where the moment shifted.

One of the guides noticed, stayed with us, encouraged us, and calmly reminded us that we were capable. With that reassurance, I pushed past the fear, reentered the water, and experienced something truly unforgettable. Looking beneath the surface, seeing the reefs and marine life up close, was a sight I will always remember.

We also learned a lot about Honduras during the tour, including how community structure and justice systems differ from what many of us are used to. It was a reminder that travel is just as much about learning as it is about seeing.

This was my second excursion so far, with two more to go. I intentionally booked several because I wanted more than the ship experience. I wanted culture, perspective, and moments that stretch me.

Today delivered all three.
Grateful I didn’t let fear have the final say.
Grateful for patient guides.
Grateful for experiences that remind you what you’re capable of.

I hope you enjoy the photos and videos from today’s adventure.

First port stop: Costa Maya, Mexico

I did my first excursion, which was a Jeep Journey to Pleasure Beach. Sadly, I couldn't drive because they needed to see a physical driver's license, but it all worked out in the end, so that was the right path.

We did an off-road adventure through Costa Maya. Visited a sleepy fishing town called Mahahual and had lunch at Pleasure Beach.

I was able to experience the history behind tequila, and we sampled an 18 year old, 24 year old and sweeter options.

Because I was served last, he topped me right up. I'm not going to lie it hit my body hard 🤣.

Get • The National Financial Literacy Programme (NFLP) is inviting applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals to serve as facilitators within its FLITE Schools Programme, Business Programme, and Community Programme.

The NFLP, an initiative of the Government commissioned by the Ministry of Energy and Business, is dedicated to helping every Barbadian become F.R.E.E. – Financially Resilient, Educated and Empowered. Guided by the slogan Learn It, Live It, Lead It, the programme delivers financial education across three pillars: Schools (FLITE Schools Programme), Business and Community.

The FLITE Schools Programme is designed to educate, equip and empower students with financial literacy skills that enable them to make informed and strategic financial decisions. The programme currently reaches 62 primary, secondary and tertiary institutions across Barbados and is projected to extend to approximately 90 schools by January 2026.

Students are introduced to key topics such as saving for the future, earning an income, budgeting, borrowing and lending, smart shopping and preparing for risks.

The Business Programme aims to strengthen the financial capability of enterprises and institutions by providing the tools needed to build sustainable businesses, enhance competitiveness and support national productivity.

Training for entrepreneurs and MSMEs will focus on core areas including pricing strategies, cash flow management, debt management, record keeping, digital literacy and compliance readiness.

Through its Community Programme, the NFLP seeks to simplify complex financial concepts and make financial education accessible, relatable, and practical. Sessions will be delivered across community centres, churches, sports and social clubs, and within vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, single parents, persons with disabilities and individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. The programme fosters a welcoming environment that promotes open dialogue about money management.

Continue reading on our website at www.gisbarbados.gov.bb