The twenty-foot sea container had traveled the 9,000 kilometers from Rotterdam, Holland, to Limon in Costa Rica, then on a tractor trailer to Managua-all in a month.

It would be five months longer to complete the final 45 kilometers to Granada. "I had my packing list and they made theirs. For example, we brought along boxes of pencils to donate to schools. I counted the number of boxes but they opened the boxes and counted the pencils." Marco Said. The customs officials decided on a tariff of one Cordoba per pencil, which is more than they cost in Holland. Used electronic appliances were taxed at 45% of purchased value while "insurance companies at home would have said they were worthless."

"They were polite and thorough, but had no respect for the property. Once, they laid paintings on the ground, then stood on them while they unloaded the rest." The process was repeated three times before the final bill of entry was made.
"I cried three times: twice at customs, once at city hall" said Ellen.

But opening day finally came.
Ellen and Marco’s idea was patterned after a European Grand Cafe concept.
More a coffeehouse with a small hotel, upscale decor and limited menu.
But the first night 250 people came to the bar. We were going to close at ten, but we have a 12 o' clock license...
What can you do?

The Grand Cafe became a thriving bar and restaurant business. They host theme parties, have a complete menu and opened eleven stylish hotel rooms.
Our dream business, El Club, is a success story.
And not every startup here is.

"We´re here 80 to 100 hours a week, but we make our own schedules and we see each other all the time."

Our advice? Make sure your marriage is solid, or it’s done.
Nicaragua is like quick sand!
Don’t fight, use your head and stay calm.