caragua (or "Surrounded by Water" as the name is literally translated) is a democratic republic and the largest country in Central America. Nicaragua is bordered by Costa Rica to the South and Honduras to the North. Nicaragua's proximity to Costa Rica has encouraged reciprocal tourism between the countries. On the western side of the country, Nicaragua's coastline abuts the Pacific Ocean; while on the eastern coast the Caribbean Sea meets are shores. Nicaragua has three distinct regions: the Atlantic Lowlands, the North-Central Highlands and the Pacific Lowlands each possessing a unique climate and geography. The capital and largest city is Managua. The national currency is the Cordoba (20 C$ = 1 US$).

The Nicaraguan Ministry of Tourism has recorded double-digit growth in tourist arrivals through the late 1990's. The tourism industry appears to be poised for strong growth over the next decade. Developers are hurrying to build along the Pacific coast, and the government is improving the local infrastructure. "The misunderstood country is now poised to emerge as a travel hot spot, a potential haven for expatriates and a place where unlimited opportunities await the energetic entrepreneur.

A 1998 U.S. News and World Report article touted Nicaragua as a hot new retirement destination, with Central America's lowest crime rate. Nicaragua can perhaps be the most seriously considered the land of opportunity, of all the countries in Central America."

But for most who have experienced Nicaragua, it is the 300 days of sunshine spent in a land of lakes and volcanoes, lush rainforests and sun swept beaches. Nicaragua is a country whose biological diversity, rivaling that of Costa Rica, is virtually unstudied and untapped. Even more amazing are the people of Nicaragua, whose easy going hospitality, rooted opinions and charm are probably their nation's greatest attraction. Nicaragua has undergone tremendous change in the last decade. The fabric of what makes Nicaragua a unique land has just begun to be woven throughout the world.

Its ecological attractions, democratic government and flourishing economy make it the ideal place to visit or start your new future. The opportunity that you are about to discover is one that most people will probably look over and it will be too late. Don't be left behind. Nicaragua is the last sandy frontier in the America's and it won't be that way for long.

Getting Here
For all travelers, a valid Passport is required for entry into Nicaragua but a visa is not required. Most foreign travelers arrive at Managua International Airport, which is located approximately 8 miles from the center of Managua. The airport is a modern facility and has recently been renovated. Managua International also serves as a regional hub for the many national airlines in the Caribbean. For U.S. travelers there are regularly scheduled flights offered by a number of U.S. carriers including American Airlines, Continental, and Delta. For domestic and regional flights, travelers can choose between Copa Airlines, Grupo Taca and Aerocaribbean. Numerous cruise lines stop in Nicaragua at Puerto Corinto and San Juan del Sur.

Travel Seasons
Nicaragua is considered to have two main travel seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The most popular travel season is typically between December and May as the weather is driest. The wettest parts of the year occur between June and October. For sport fisherman, April to July is generally considered to be the best season.

Volcan Masaya
This active volcano is minutes from Granada. The volcano is great for hiking and still emits vapor and gases. The volcano features a national park as well as a small museum.

Managua
Managua, being the capital of Nicaragua, offers tourist attractions of all sorts. One can visit the Rubén Darío National Theater, the National Palace (Presidential Palace). In addition to malls, fast food, movie theaters and such, Managua, like the rest of the country, offers plenty of mountains, volcanoes and lakes.

San Juan del Sur
San Juan del Sur is a popular tourist destination in Nicaragua and offers some of the best surfing in Nicaragua (Playa Maderas) as well as beautiful hotels, beaches and even beachfront real estate.

Masaya
Don't forget to buy souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. Masaya is the place to find hammocks, furniture, paintings and souvenirs and two large arts and crafts markets.