Current Time in Tela
Time culture in Honduras
Time culture in Honduras
Appointment times are merely a guideline
In Honduras, it is common to be a few minutes to 30 minutes late for an appointment or scheduled time. Human relationships and circumstances take priority over time, so strict punctuality is not expected.
Influence of Latin culture, relaxed with time
There is a Latin sense of time common throughout Latin America, and it is not uncommon for people to say "I'll be there right now" but actually be there an hour later. A relaxed, leisurely pace is rooted in their lives.
Time is flexible on holidays and religious events
Atmosphere and faith are more important than time on Sunday services and holidays. Start times are often delayed, and participants act on that assumption.
Values regarding time in Honduras
Emphasis on human connections
In this culture, emphasis is placed on "who you spend time with and how you spend time" rather than time. Even before meetings and gatherings begin, people chat and exchange greetings, and they tend to value relationships over formalities.
Being punctual can also be seen as cold
In particular, in local communities, being too strict on time can be seen as being "cold and unforgiving," and flexible responses are preferred.
Differences in sensibilities between urban and rural areas
In urban areas such as the capital Tegucigalpa, time consciousness in business is increasing, but in rural areas, a relaxed sense of time is still the norm.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Honduras
It is safe to think of appointment times as "guidelines"
When making an appointment with a local person, the other person may be late even if you are on time. A delay of 10 to 30 minutes is considered acceptable, so it is important to be flexible and not get irritated.
Public transport is not always on time
Buses and long-distance transport often do not operate according to the scheduled time, so you need to schedule with plenty of time. Getting there is more important than time management.
Time consciousness is somewhat stronger in business
In business situations, punctuality is increasingly seen when dealing with foreigners. Meetings and contracts tend to require punctuality, especially in urban areas.
Interesting trivia about time in Honduras
"Ahorita" does not necessarily mean right now
The Spanish word "ahorita" literally means "right now," but in Honduras it is also used to mean "sometime in the future." It is a time expression unique to the local area.
The culture of going home during lunch breaks remains
The culture of going home from work or school during lunch time is still deeply rooted, and some workplaces have longer lunch breaks because people value spending their lunch time with their families.
Sense of time can change during hurricane season
Plans can suddenly change due to the rainy season or hurricanes, and the "living with nature" style also influences our sense of time.