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Nicaragua / CENTRAL AMERICA

Managua:

Nicaragua's capital is a city of contrasts. Posh, sophisticated and modern areas rub shoulders with gritty working-class districts. Managua has approximately one million inhabitants, a number that is constantly increasing. This city is undoubtedly the economic and political center of the country, and the main bank offices, shopping centers and the best nightlife are concentrated in the capital.

Managua sits only 50 meters above sea level, on the shore of Lake Managua and stretches 20 km. in length, to the mountains of Managua.

Places of interests are:

- The Central Park
- The Plaza de la Fe
- The Ruins of the Cathedral of Santiago
- The National Palace of Culture
- The National Museum
- The National Theatre

The Museum of the Footprints of Acahualinca is the most important archeological site in Nicaragua. Here we can find man-made tracks from dating over 6,000 years, which proves human presence in Managua and Central America during this period.

The Huembes Market is one of the most colorful markets in Central America and is a must-see while visiting Managua. There you will also the important events such as the "Festival of Music and Youth," which takes place in March, and the "Fiestas Agostinas."

Due to its low altitude, the Managua's climate is always hot, varying between 30 and 32 degrees Celsius (86 - 90 degrees Fahrenheit). December and January are a little cooler than March and April.     

Part of Managua's history includes the earthquake that, in 1972, destroyed a great portion of the city. The new town was constructed in the vicinity of the old, which creates another remarkable contrast of modern and antique design.

Granada:

Lavishly ornate churches vigil over blocks of Spanish-colonial homes, where large wooden doors open onto colorful internal gardens. Outside, the gallop of horse-drawn carriages combines with the playful calls of vendors.

For years, Granada remained a forgotten reminder of Central America's Spanish presence. Not any more. Today, beautifully restored colonial buildings line narrow streets, where airy restaurants and cozy cafes provide the perfect place to absorb the rich colonial character of America's oldest European-founded city.

Granada is certainly one of Nicaragua's most important tourist destinations. Previously the town was as well called "La Gran Sultana," or "The Great Sultan," after its Spanish namesake. In the beginning it was a small indigenous village called Xalteva. Francisco Hernandez founded the city, as it is known today, by Lake Cocibolca. Granada is situated 45 km. south of Managua, 102 km. from the Costa Rican border and 50 km. from the most beautiful beaches on the Pacific coast.

This town was built in the colonial style that is typical for Latin American countries. This is also illustrated by the fact that almost all of the important buildings were erected in the same place, the "Plaza Central," which is the heart of the community and meeting point for its inhabitants. Here we can find the most important banks, art galleries, restaurants as well as the market. Today Granada is one of the world's best living examples of Spanish colonial style.

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