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Nicaragua Journals

Dura Vida Nicaragua

A June 2006 trip to Nicaragua by coloradowanderer

Laundry Photo - Nicaragua, Central America More Photos
Quote: Don't let the past deter a visit to this volcanic country of proud people. Discover undeveloped beaches while they last.
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Dura Vida Nicaragua Best of IgoUgo

Overview

Laundry Photo - Nicaragua, Central America
Quote:
“Vida es dura en Nicaragua”It's almost an understament that life is hard in Nicaragua. Decades of torture and death by the Somoza family of dictators and years of US sanctions left this beautiful country war-torn and it's proud people in poverty. The Revolution is long over but still evident by bullet holes and the stories of mothers losing their sons.Reading up on Nica's turbulent history is a must to have a meaningful, in-depth travel experience. More than basic Spanish is helpful to get to know the Nicaraguanese. Generally, I found people very friendly and willing to share their life experiences in time. Many a conversation with members of the younger backpacker set gave me an opport...Read More

Hostel Oasis Best of IgoUgo

Hotel

Mural Photo - Hostel Oasis, Granada, Nicaragua
Quote:
What a great find in this budget hostel! Easy to find off one of the main streets, look for the sign painted on a light pole. Free Internet access, book exchange and DVD rentals on 2 TVs are great perks. The reason it is a true oasis is the swimming pool, small but perfect to beat the hot Nicaraguan sun. Dorm beds are cheap, single rooms reasonable and shared rooms are like a regular hotel room with private bath. The common showers are clean and offer privacy. Cushioned chairs under murals and hammocks line the courtyard offering relaxing hang-out spots.Reception workers are friendly and request well deserved tips. Beverages are available on the honor system and the tab is paid at check ...Read More

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on August 26, 2006

Hostel Oasis
Calle Estrada 109
Granada, Nicaragua

Nica Buffet Best of IgoUgo

Restaurant

Nica Buffet Photo - Nica Buffet, Granada, Nicaragua
Quote:
My only disappointment with the Nica Buffet was the lack of biscuits and gravy as promised by a guidebook. The service and delicious meals more than made up for it. Located in an unassuming building on a side street from the main square, you might not expect much from the look of it. Inside the walls are brightly painted with tropical scenes and less than 10 tables look in to the kitchen. Edward, the Dutch owner, speaks 5 languages fluently and has lived in Nicaragua for 20 years. His story is long and interesting, ending with taking over this restaurant and making it the place for breakfast in Granada. Everything on the menu looks good and is priced around $5 with drink and tip. I choose an ome...Read More

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on August 26, 2006

Nica Buffet
Calle Corazan
Granada, Nicaragua

Tele Pizza Best of IgoUgo

Restaurant

TelePizza Photo - Tele Pizza, Granada, Nicaragua
Quote:
Another backpacker had heard good things about Tele Pizza, so we decided to check it out. I try to avoid pizza while traveling because it's something I can eat at home, but sometimes you want familiar food. We found a seat in the open-air courtyard among the local families. The busy waiters were prompt and friendly, helping us decipher unknown Spanish words. We decided to split a small pizza and 3 empanadas stuffed with onions, cheese and fresh spinach. A variety of pizza toppings are available on thin or thick crust. The empanadas were made with a thick dough and baked, not fried and absolutely delicious.The decor is a little funny, American movie and music posters amid pizza toppings and ...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on August 26, 2006

Tele Pizza
Calle La Libertad
Granada, Nicaragua

Local Market Best of IgoUgo

Attraction

Fresh fruits and veggies Photo - Granada, Nicaragua
Quote:
The streets around the market are packed with stalls hawking everything you could never want and a few things you might actually buy. The market itself is a maze of booths and “restaurants.” Many travelers are too intimidated by the chaos and dirty floors to venture in and actually sit down to eat. Basic Nicaraguan fare and soups are sold at low prices. Fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables are sold right next to chicken parts laid out on tables. The blood on the street was almost too much for this pseudo-vegetarian. But walking through the market is an excellent way to see the local culture and the farmers who provide this food. The area is crowded, so watch your belongings and keep money in a safe p...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on September 2, 2006

Orphanage Photo - Granada, Nicaragua
Quote:
The Moon Handbook lists volunteer organizations all over Nicaragua. My heart ached reading about a seriously underfunded orphanage, Hogar Madre de Albertini, in Granada. The book said the girls don't have much to do and mostly watch TV after school. Before my trip, I bought a few fun things and art supplies for the girls. Using the address from the guidebook, I asked for directions at my hostel. The front-desk workers marked the location on a map and off I went. Little did I know that the address was incorrect. I was out of the main area, and not many others were walking along. A young girl walked by and I asked her about the orphanage. She did not know where it was, but sensing gifts, she grabbed my ...Read More