‘Guests get to experience the genuineness of the island’

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By Jennifer Glatt | Mint Pillow

Talia Greenfield is the spirited founder of Puerta Azul, a boutique hotel tucked into the coast of Roatán, Honduras. Originally from Colorado, she traded city life for island serenity in 2015, transforming a dream into a vibrant reality. With her husband, Antonio, and a dedicated team, she has cultivated a haven that seamlessly blends local culture and natural beauty. Here, shares how she brings the island vibe to boutique hospitality. 

How do you differentiate Puerta Azul from other accommodations on the island?
Puerta Azul offers a unique experience that blends natural beauty with thoughtful hospitality. Our boutique beachfront setting flows from lush jungle to the Caribbean Sea, and we’ve worked intentionally to preserve that connection to nature. What sets us apart is our commitment to authenticity. Our menu features locally sourced ingredients and island-style dishes, and our concierge services are curated to showcase the very best of Roatán—whether it's a dive excursion, an island tour, or the best hidden snorkeling spots. We focus on providing meaningful experiences and personalized service, so guests get to experience the genuineness of the island. 

What lessons did you learn during the development and opening phases that you wish you’d known earlier?
One major lesson I learned is that maintenance is truly never-ending. Nature and wear and tear have a very quick timeline when you live right by the sea. It’s taught me the value of proactive care, attention to detail and having a reliable team you trust. I also learned that flexibility and patience are essential—especially when you're building something on island time.

Any unique challenges to running a hotel on an island?
Running a hotel on an island comes with its own set of quirks. Everything from sourcing materials and supplies to dealing with inconsistent utilities or internet can be a challenge. I often find myself explaining to guests that here at Puerta Azul, we strive for “island perfection.” Over time, you learn to adapt, problem-solve creatively and embrace the unexpected. That mindset has become part of the hotel’s personality and charm.

How do you maintain a consistent guest experience and high service standards with a lean team?
My husband and I live on-site, which allows us to stay closely involved in daily operations and ensure that every guest experience meets our standards. We're very hands-on and lead by example. We also invest in our team. We’ve built a culture where our staff feels valued and empowered, and that shows in how they care for our guests. Because we genuinely love what we do and where we live, hospitality comes naturally. That passion is what makes Puerta Azul feel like home—for us and for our guests.

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