About Nicaragua

     
     Nicaragua, located between Costa Rica and Honduras, is clearly changing for the better Rated by International living as the eighth best place in the world to retire, Nicaragua ranks high in such categories as safety, cost of living and real estate investment.  It is a land dominated by 58 volcanoes and the largest lakes and uncut rain forest found in Central America.  Socially, its revolutionary past has resulted in a democratic government and a people enjoyuing freedoms and opportunities.  Some poverty exacerbated by Hurricane Mitch, is evident at times, but the economy is improving annually.

San Juan del Sur, a two-hour drive south from Managua, is a popular escape for both Nicaraguans and visitors.  

This port came alive during the California gold rush period as it was a strategic link in the shortest route between the East and West coasts of the U.S.

Today, with the exception of Christmas and Holy Week, which attract huge crowds, San Juan's tranquil beaches are nearly empty, which is quil beaches are nearly empty, which is exactly what most people seem to like about it. 

 Getting to Nicaragua is easy.  Continental offers daily nonstop flights from Houston to Managua, while American, NICA and TACA have flights form Miami.  U.S. visitors do not need a visa to enter the country.  A passport valid for at least six months after arrival and a tourist card (issued upon arrival for $5 are required.  There is an airport departure tax of $32.  Spanish is the official language; however' English is widely spoken in tourist areas.  U.S. currency is accepted everywhere, and there is a favorable exchange rate of about 14 corodobas to one U.S. dollar.  All major credit cards are preferable to travelers' checks, and ATMs are available in Managua but hard to find in rural towns.  Vaccinations are not required.  Nicaragua's Pacific Coast and San Juan del Sur un particular, do not pose health concerns from mosquitoes and other biting insects more commonly found on the easterly, low-lying rain forest of Central America.  Dress is casual.  A hat, sun-protection, lotion, sandals, light clothing and rain gear, sunglasses, personal medications, contact lens solution, flashlight, portable alarm clock, film and camrea are recommended.

     Nicaraguans are renowned for their frienliness, informalityand sense of humor, so learning a few cordial Spanish phrases before you go will help.