Central America's topics - tribe.net

Recommendations for How Best to Travel Between Countries

Ben — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:09:30 GMT

Hi all,
I'll be returning to Guatemala (third time) this spring, but want to go to other countries as well. My friend is going to put me up in Nicaragua for a week or so and I'm wondering if it would be best to fly between the two countries, or if it's worth navigating the bus system to see more. I imagine buses will be more cost effective, but if I decide to fly, does anyone have a sense of whether it's cheaper to buy the tickets in the US or when I get to Guatemala. (I'm flexible as to when I go down to Nicaragua.)

If I decide to bus it, any stops I should try to make on my way?

Thanks!
Ben

posted in Central America - 1 reply

anyone residents of central america?

David — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 07:56:55 GMT

anyone here live in nicaragua or central america and likes trance and camping and traveling to the edges of the earth?

posted in Central America - 2 replies

5 countries in 3 weeks

nookshake — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:34:35 GMT

Hi guys- anyone have any recommendations or travel routes from costa rica up to guatamala and back? we will be in central america for 3 weeks and would appreciate any tips, do's or don'ts, thanks!!

posted in Central America - 2 replies

driving to Guatemala

carpezz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 06:54:38 GMT

Hello, I've been to Guate several times but have never driven. I was wondering if anyone on here has any recommendations on driving from TX to the Lake Atitlan area (or really any part in Guate). What roads are best avoided? Where are good places to stop for the night? I'm hoping to drive down with a human companion but if no one else I'll have my teddy bear of a beast dog with me. Suggestions in terms of changing plates? I'll be there for at least a year and a half.

Any advice anyone can give me would be much appreciated. Thanks!
-Carla

posted in Central America - 5 replies

New Intentional Community, Organic farm, Mind-Body Health Center, and Festival Site Starting at Lago da Atitlan, Guatemala!

David — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:56:43 GMT

Hello friends from around the world. Good news!

We have a site secured for the mind-body health center and intentional community I have been dreaming. Photos and a full description of the operation coming to the website soon. For now, more information is on our facebook group at:
www.facebook.com/s.php
and Tribe group: tribes.tribe.net/projectnuevomundo

Project Nuevo Mundo is a network of individuals committed to redirecting the development of our planet and the life it sustains through the creation of consciousness-transforming, healing projects and centers in communities both foreign and domestic.

This reflects momentum gathering around the world towards a new consensus that emphasizes a more balanced existence with the rest of the natural world based on small-scale, cooperatively organized and relatively self-sufficient human settlements.

Join me if you are interested in a future in development (economic, social, spiritual), fair trade, microcredit, community-building, health and clean water access, media relations and organization, refugee work, education, environmental advocacy and spreading alternative energies. Use this space to discuss possibilities, ideas, and the projects that currently engage us.

We support the philosophy of the Solidarity Economy, creating opportunities for work-exchange and reducing the neccessity for monetary transactions. Below you will find many ways to travel the world, learn, and volunteer with little to no finances.

Here is a little information about the site we have built in Guatemala and now and need your help to start the project and community! (calling all WWOOF work-exchange volunteers, vegan gourmet kitchen apprentices, gardeners, landscapers, mural-painters, massage therapists, yoga instructors, therapists and mind-body healers...). We can make this happen together!

-Beautiful lakeside land going up about two-hundred meters
-Two minutes by boat from beautiful Santiago Atitlan, the largest town on the lake (but not accessible except by boat, which we have one)
-Beautiful hiking paths on our private land as well as public trails
-Solar powered jacuzees, and unlimited supply of solar-heated water
-Sauna sweatlodge
-1000 watt sound-system :)
-Fully producing organic garden (all vegan) with retail outlet store (Salud para Vida) in San Pedro Atitlan and restaurant on-site. Sprouting, raw food, green juicing, etc. this is happening already.
-Plenty of camping space (we hope to build a hostel soon to accomodate backpackers)
-Housing for rent (although this is luxury, to generate income)
-WWOOF positions and work-exchange opportunities opening up in January (we will need a kitchen position, a maintenance and cleaning position, and a gardening position to start. We will also be constructing ecological houses for work-exchange people
-Opportunities to work for one year (including building a small habitation from local materials) in exchange for legal ownership of the habitation and a small plot of land for personal garden
-We are specifically looking for yoga instructors, massage therapists, landscape designers, green builders and permaculture-organic agriculture enthusiasts. We would like to beautify the space with flowers, murals, stained-glass designs. Let´s get creative! When we develop the center we will need a variety of mind-body healers.
-Future plans: 1-2 week workshops on organic farming, vegan cooking, sailing, etc. We plan on hosting conferences, parties, weddings, Vipassana meditation retreats, camping trips for disadvantaged children from Guatemala City to get in touch with nature and rediscover their roots. We are very open to ideas and want to experiment. Get it?

We will be posting up a complete picture of the operations with photographs on our coming website, www.projectnuevomundo.org , in the next couple of weeks. We are also looking for people to pool money together to purchase more land and build a meditation center and more housing. Will be keeping news of the project up to date, please spread the word to interested friends and invite them to the group.

Email contact: projectnuevomundo@gmail.com

Love and Light
David

posted in Central America - 0 replies

corn islands

artdan — Thu, 28 May 2009 23:48:31 GMT

does anyone have any experiences from Big Corn Is. Nic. ?
I want to head down end of Nov. for a couple of months in a $10.00 shack, to write music.
Let me clarify, I'll go there in an airplane, hopefully the shack will already be there ;-)

posted in Central America - 1 reply

Study Abroad Roommate Needed

Rebecca — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:25:30 GMT

Hello Everyone,

I am looking for a roommate for a study abroad cruise, see details below.

Looking for: A female roommate, any age.

PASSAGE THROUGH PANAMA IS ALMOST HERE

A voyage through the Panama Canal is a sought-after, once-in-a-lifetime experience for savvy travelers, and the Passage Through Panama Enrichment Voyages offer a unique way to explore the Canal, Costa Rica and more of Central America! Sail aboard the intimate MV Explorer with college professors, regional experts and business leaders, and learn about the history, people and environment of the places you are visiting. Unique Field Programs beckon you to go ashore to explore first hand. And the best part about this Passage Through Panama - with our EXCLUSIVE "Better than 2-for-1" deal and FREE AIR, everyone can afford to come aboard for a 14 night adventure!

PORT ARRIVE DEPART
5/22 Puntarenas, Costa Rica Embark pm
5/23 Puntarenas, Costa Rica -- 6:00p
5/24 Corinto, Nicaragua 8:00a 6:00p
5/25 Enrichment At Sea -- --
5/26 Transit Panama Canal 6:00a 7:00p
5/27 Cristobal, Panama 8:00a 6:00p
5/28 Puerto Limon, Costa Rica 8:00a 6:00p
5/29 Enrichment At Sea -- --
5/30 Roatan, Honduras 8:00a 6:00p
5/31 San Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala 8:00a 6:00p
6/1 Belize City, Belize 8:00a 6:00p
6/2 Cozumel, Mexico 8:00a --
6/3 Cozumel, Mexico -- 6:00p
6/4 Enrichment At Sea -- --
6/5 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 8:00a --

Enrichment Voyages are offering a special on the May 22 sailing of, $1799 ocean view guarantee, and $3499 suite guarantee, per person based on double occupancy.

Here is a link to an online brochure

http://www.enrichmentvoyages.com/panama/brochure/index.html

Thanks!
Let me know if you have any questions!

Rebecca Singer

posted in Central America - 0 replies

direct flights from ny/nj/atlantic city to guat???

turtlebeanz — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 01:08:58 GMT

i'm traveling with my infant son and can't find a direct flight. anybody know of anything?

: )

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Sale of condo in Isla Verde, PR

Dumb — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:56:46 GMT

Sale price $110,000 negotiable
Quaint newly remodeled studio 1-1/2 block from the beach, air conditioner, pool, unassigned parking, laundry, elevator, new TV w/DVD & VHS, new microwave, coffee pot w/ toaster, new ceramic stove top, new refrigerator, new futon, furnished, bedding and kitchen supplies, mirrored closet door with spacesaver closet furnishings,

Location: Isla Verde, PR. Five minutes from airport, walking distance to major hotels, clubs, casinos, restaurants: No need to furnish, ready to move in as is.

Can send pictures: e-mail me at nramosb@gmail.com for more info.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Honduras - Utila and Roatan

cicadaloca — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:30:50 GMT

I'm headed to the sandy beaches of Roatan and Utila on June 11th - 26th. I'll be travelling alone and would appreciate any tips on places to stay, hang out, eat, activities, etc. I'm planning to spend ~$20-25/night for a beach bungalow or private room. Also, if anyone's gonna be there at the same time let's we meet up for a beer!

ps. Lonely Planet guide says there are wild monkeys, iguanas, and parrots on the Bay Islands. Is it true about the monkeys?

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Permaculture Course and Sustainability Tour in Costa Rica

Tom — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:25:36 GMT

PERMACULTURE COURSE at Punta Mona
& SUSTAINABILITY TOUR of Costa Rica

September 22 – October 6: The Course
October 6 – October 12: The Tour

Join us at our Caribbean, beach-front, permaculture center for a rich, diverse learning experience.

On the property there are an array of food and herb gardens as well as exotic fruit forests surrounded by primary and secondary tropical rainforest, and rivers. At Punta Mona we live and learn where tropical gardens merge with the rainforest, surrounded by dolphins, monkeys, exotic birds, butterflies, coral reef, beaches and much more.

The tour will travel throughout Costa Rica visiting many of the finest organic farms and permaculture sites in the country. Learn first-hand from the founders of these projects all of the trial and error it has taken to bring the projects to date. We will have the opportunity to experience earthworks, animal husbandry, biodynamics, community design and see the invisible structures that hold the individual projects together.

For more information please go to: www.puntamona.org
and email us at: contact@puntamona.org

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Kitchen Manager position available on Organic Sustainable Farm/Educational Center/Community

Tom — Sat, 31 May 2008 18:22:04 GMT

Punta Mona, Center for Sustainable Living and Education is looking for a motivated and inspired Kitchen Manager to work on our Organic Farm. Punta Mona is an intentional community where we practice sustainability and Permaculture. Currently, we have 10 staff members. Interns flow in and out monthly and there are up to 15 at any time. The Kitchen Manager would be responsible for planning 3 meals a day while directing interns and other kitchen help to facilitate feeding 20 - 65 people. It will be up to you to manage your team accordingly. Cooking/cleaning and maintenance of the kitchen will be your responsibility.

The kitchen manager will be cooking over a wood fire for 2 meals a day (gas stove for breakfast). He/she will be in charge of directing and educating the interns in the kitchen. Please be willing to learn about the edible farm food and working with our agricultural manager in incorporating the food in our meals. We get new visitors everyday and the kitchen manager will have to adjust to feeding new guests, sometimes with only a few minutes notice. You will be living communally. Our intern/staff housing is shared. The property runs on solar energy (there is limited internet access and none when there is cloud cover), a rainwater catchment system is used for drinking & cooking water and we use composting toilets. This is off the grid living.

Our farm is located between Manzanillo and Gandoca on the Southern Caribbean Coast. We are right on a beautiful, private beach in a jungle nature-reserve. The land is truly incredible and it is a privilege to live here. To get to Punta Mona it is a gorgeous, scenic 1 1⁄2 hour hike in the jungle or a 20-minute boat ride. If you like the idea of being a bit cut off and living with a community that is ever transient this is the place for you!

In your free time you can swim, kayak, snorkel, garden, learn about sustainable practices, hike in the jungle or just lay in a hammock.

3-month minimum commitment. $250 per month. Includes meals, lodging and limited Internet access.

Position is available ASAP. Please write us an email about why you would be the best candidate for this position and what you would like to offer our community.

jandertom@yahoo.com
puntamona.org

Peace, Pura Vida, Blessings!

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Place to bring big group.

Bandstalker — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 04:40:15 GMT

Greetings all-

I'm looking into putting together a large group vacation. About 100-150 people.
I'd like a resort area with lots of little cute cabanas to rent and restaurants in walking distance.

I'd also like to bring a band along and find an outdoor venue to book for two nights of music open to both the group and other vacationers.

Queops, Costa Rica comes to mind, but a lot of those motels are up that big hill and require taxi's or shuttles everywhere. Anyone have any ideas?
Caye Caulker, Belize, Roatan, Honduras?

The area should appeal to hippies, families and scuba divers.

-Beth

posted in Central America - 1 reply

seeking volunteers-

Clayton — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 18:01:24 GMT

Buenas, I am seeking volunteers for the fall of 2008, to work on an oragnic fruit farm on teh Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Please contact me for further information or any questions comments you might have. Anyone who is interested feel free to respond, and I can explain in more detail about the farm and the dreams of its evolution. Happy trails-

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Off the grid living in Punta Mona, Costa Rica

Stephen — Wed, 23 Nov 2005 22:34:21 GMT

Come check out Punta Mona!!!!
I have been living in Costa Rica for almost 11 years nearly the entire time in Punat Mona. It is located south of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca past the end of the road on the Caribbean coast near the Panama border. We have tons and tons of different kinds of fruit trees. If you move down here and buy a place come pay me a visit and allow me to share lots of edible plants with you. Seeds cuttings small trees We have lots!!! Our Web site is www.puntamona.org We also just bought a bunch of farms around Costa Rica with hot springs, gushing rivers youy can dive into and perfect climates. Organizing the creation of eco-towns. Invest, buy a lot or just come visit Check us out!!! Stephen

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Tropical Disease

Fri, 18 May 2007 22:35:47 GMT

Hi There. Just thought I would see if anyone else has ever come back from Central America with any sort of tropical diseases. I am currently dealing with Leishmaniasis, which is a rare disease spread through the bite of a sandfly. Coming back to North America to be treated has been a very long process. I am finally getting medication through the CDC and am dealing with some annoying side effects. Just wanted to see if anyone else is experiencing anything like this.

posted in Central America - 5 replies

TRUTH IS FREE; so is my RETREAT --Vermont

Bald Mountain Retreat, — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:03:33 GMT

I'm looking to network with folks, to extend an invitation to visit Bald Mountain Retreat (www.baldmountainretreat.com) as my guest. Like-minded people who appreciate rustic accommodations are welcome to come up at no charge. (Those who require a private room can inquire about those accommodations as well.)
Basically, I'm offering people the opportunity to come stay with a retired naturopathic doctor in a truly amazing natural setting, secluded, idyllic, peaceful...
Also, if you might like to lead a retreat, please contact me.
Thank you and you are welcome,
Dr David

posted in Central America - 0 replies

is it worth it to go in june?

automatthew — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:35:15 GMT

or will it be too rainy?

i am beach bum.

posted in Central America - 8 replies

Work? Volunteer?

left hook — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:38:13 GMT

I'm heading down to central america in a week and half for four months. I'm planning on settling in Copan and working in a maternity clinic for a good two months, also studying spanish. The other month I will be traveling and visiting with my family who will also be down south. I'm looking for another project/volunteer opportunity/work and live opportunity. I'm going down with little to no money so am hoping for support from family while volunteering in the clinic. Does anybody on here have any experience or ideas of somewhere I could find work in exchange for room and board? I know there are tons of cool projects happening down there!!

posted in Central America - 2 replies

Volunteering in Honduras

Michel — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 21:14:43 GMT

It does not have to be expensive...

MOUNTAIN MOVER’S MISSIONS CLINIC
Colonial Las Brisas, Danli, Honduras
paradisedivers@yahoo.com

Mountain Mover’s is a program dedicated to the health and welfare of the poor people in Honduras . Since 1999, we have attended thousands of medical patients in our general medical clinic in Danli. In addition, we have donated much needed equipment and medical supplies to local clinics and hospitals in Honduras .

This program started after Hurricane Mitch. With so many in need, the medical clinic just sort of naturally evolved.

Three years ago we began a medical and nursing student program to help serve and train in our clinic. It’s a hands-on opportunity for students to learn and help treat diseases when basic necessities are lacking. Both medical and pre-medical students have come from all over the world to do their medical electives.

While with us you will work in the general medical clinic attending patients under a doctor’s supervision. A typical day starts between 7:30 and 8:00. We attend patients until the last one is done, usually 4:30 or 5 pm.

The clinic runs off of donated medicines and medical supplies. Every student is asked to bring in medicine and medical equipment and supplies when they come. I can send a list of medicines currently needed.. Please do not bring expired medicines.

We charge $225 dollars a week for your room- there is no charge for the medical program. The program is self supported by the student’s money for their time with us. We do not receive outside funds or grants. There is no drinking or cohabitation on the premises, we live in a dorm setting.

Michel Bessette, RRT,
Patient Services Coordinator.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

anybody want to caravan up through central america?

turtlebeanz — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 18:20:48 GMT

I arrive in costa rica oct 6 and want to see costa rica for a few weeks and then begin to travel up through central america to mexico. rainbow will be happening in nov and tree planting. but who knows... just looking for some fun travel companions.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

travel backpack recommendation

tove — Fri, 25 May 2007 19:08:31 GMT

Hi all -

I'm new here, so thanks in advance.

I'm planning a year long trip, starting next Feb with a few months in central america. I was wondering if anyone had any favorite backpacks they would recommend. I'm an average height female and pretty good a packing light, but I plan to bring a few bigger items like a compact sleeping bag and pillow. Any suggestions?

]]tove[[

posted in Central America - 1 reply

Costa Rica Project, Need help

Sam — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:37:16 GMT

Hello.

I've been looking for information on Costa rica for this project for school (Making a Travel brochure). I can't find what the prices are for The Rico Tico Bar n' Grill. I keep finding "the prices are included with the room tab," which isn't very helpful, Do you need a room at the hotel in order to eat at the restaurant? Does anyone know what the address of the restaurant is?
I'm having the same problem finding info on The Claro que si seafood restaurant.

If anyone has any information, I'd appreciate it. Thanks

-Sam

posted in Central America - 0 replies

"The Gift of the Turbi", a (post) holiday classic

patrick — Mon, 26 Feb 2007 20:04:43 GMT

There was a man, a young man of good heart and character, and he had a bus that he loved. The bus was the shiny yellow and black apple of his eye, and their love was complete. He veritably lived inside of her, caressing her ample bumpers and buying her all manners of distilled waters and fancy spray paints.

And she loved him too; she loved him as strongly as a bus could love a man, that tall (10 feet) long legged (35 feet) 19,000 lb lady from Hayward, and things were good.

She was a comely bus, old fashioned values and smog, and was blessed by the lord with the gift of turbo, a lovely tress of curly cast iron that adorned her intake manifiold like a jewel in a Princess' tiara. It was their pride and her joy.

And the man also possessed one thing of great sentimental and personal value: a classic turbo boost sphygomometer given to him by his grandfather, a toxic filled graduated glass and brass mercury tube of wonderful complexity that he would lovingly plumb into his beloved when he wanted to see her smile. On sundays they would go to the park and he would gently lift her covers one by one, and there they would sit, whiling away the hours in the joy that only lovers share.

The couple was poor, and didn't drink the finest Rotella, nor could afford Michelins on the table except during special occasions. And then one year, the Saint Valentine's Day holiday approached, and they were both left in a quandary, how could this poor bus and man properly show their love on this special occasion?

Finally February 14th arrived, and after a hard day at the yard, the man came home to find his beloved bride sitting, parked near the one ton, behind the trailer, near the stack of pallets where he stored the brake drums and the power steering pumps, with tears/condensation in her headlights, but still shining the most lumenous of glows towards her chosen seat taker. And the man excitedly approached her, cleverly concealing a package from his beloved's low beams.

(break for commercial)

(Scene returns to idyllic backyard full of bus parts and Japanese and American pickups)

"Look my dear" he cried, "I have the finest of gifts for the bus that has been my veritable foundation of transportation for so many wonderful years." And from under his cloak, he produced a box. And there, inside the box was a lovely air heat exchanger from Cummins in Paris, painted beautiful flat black and glowing with a non reflective dullness that shone like the night. (with all necessary connectors and fasteners, and a roll of pink teflon tape)

"Oh my Goodness", she screamed in joy, "how could you ever have brought to me such a precious and costly gift my love?" She began to sigh, and with tears now welling up in her turn signals, she said "We are but a poor couple, rich in maintenance but with a limited parts budget..."

"Well" he replied, "my love for you springs internal, just like your fuel lines, and I confess I sold the turbo boost gage to get the lovely part. but it is OK, we can do it by ear my sweet, love can conquer any vaccuum problem."

And then he spotted a splendidly wrapped box sitting on the dash. "Is that for me my love?" he asked. "A gift from the bus whose broad hips and leaf spring suspension has seen me thru my longest travels and darkest hours... I can't wait to open it!"

He carefully separated the twine, removed the paper, and gently lifted the lid off the box. And there inside was a 3/16" thru 7/8" SAE and metric adapter set for classic sphygamometers, lovingly hand chromed from Taiwan.

And then tears began to well up in his eyes, as he walked, slowly, to the side (driver's side, door behind the radiator door) of his beloved, and lifted her skirts gently for the thousandth time.

For he knew the truth already........ . . . there in place of her lovely turbo was a simple metal plate, her chestnut colored curl now nothing more than a 5 X 8 piece of aluminum or cast or pot metal or something, (it had paint on it) and her flowing manifolds had been shorn to the scalp.

And as they looked at each other, and felt the love and tender mercies that only a long time committed driver and machine can hold dear, and nurture thru the years,-- there was peace, and then they drove, hand in wheel, down to Flying J for a quiet, intimate fill.

And life was good, and love had flourished and flew and soared for a brief minute on God's Green Earth.

("The Gift of the Turbi", an (instant) holiday classic)
available on CD and cassette

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/CrownandGillig/

=======================================

posted in Central America - 0 replies

HONDURAS TRIBE

LYNN — Fri, 10 Feb 2006 15:51:05 GMT

I have started a tribe called 'Honduras". If you have any interests in Honduras, please join so this tribe so it can get up and moving... whether your interst is in travelling to, living in, retiring to, investing in,... or just a casual interest, please join!!! I hope to hear from you all!!!

thanks

Lynn

posted in Central America - 2 replies

help!

Magnolia Grace — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 00:11:23 GMT

Ok i know this may sound a bit silly but i am really trying to pool my resources here!!!!!
if anyone is in or is going to Antigua soon... i have a huge big family love favor to ask.....and i would be willing to make it up to them anyway neccisarry....
I was in antigua recently and was at a hostle and left my favorite and most important pair of shoes sitting outside in the courtyard to dry and then proceeded to leave with out them... now we are far away in the peten and tikal area and i cant go back to get them... i called the hostle and they have them there....and said that the only way i could retreive them would be to have someone pick them up for me or to come get them myself...so the later not being a option i was hoping some wonderful loving family member would help me out and go pick them up and mail them home to oregon for me.... or even to honduras--- so if you feel like you are up for this blessed mission write me a message and i will provide details.... its not really that much of a hard task...i promise! :)
please please please help a sistren out! lots of love and blessigs on your travels
Grace

posted in Central America - 0 replies

natural building in Belize

transcendance — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 21:52:27 GMT

January 22-31, 2007, SGNB will be teaching a natural building workshop at the Maya Mountain Research Farm (MMRF), in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, two miles up river from the village of San Pedro Columbia in southern Belize. Learn basic design and construction techniques, as well as how to build with the local materials such as earth, stone and wood. MMRF is a working demonstration farm that promotes sustainable agriculture, appropriate technology and food security using permacultural principles and applied biodiversity.
For more information on this workshop contact Andy at andy@sgnb.com, or the Maya Mountain Research Farm at mmrfbz.org.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

nicaragua anyone?

Callie — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 07:06:39 GMT

hey folks- i'm moving to nica in about 2 weeks to volunteer for a year or two teaching music and english. i'm gonna be in managua for 3 weeks in january, and am wondering if anyone else will be around to bomb around with? i'm going to be taking some spanish course there but other than that have nothing planned. if any of you are going on a fabulous adventure anywhere in central america and want a fun-lovin gal along for the ride... please let me know! blessings, callie

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Jump in the waters fine!.....or is it?

Sun, 05 Nov 2006 18:05:42 GMT

Hey I have a question? Im going to be in Costa Rica, Nic & Panama for 4 1/2 months & will be backpacking around from the carribean to the pacific, north & south. I have a water purifier (MSR) and it's kinda bulky, what are your thoughts on this? Do you think that a water Puifier is really neccesary or is bottled water available most of the time.
Any thoughts on this would be greatly apreciated.
Pura Vida!!!
OP1KANOBE

posted in Central America - 2 replies

"250,000 heroes and martyrs, 250,000 voices clamoring for justice

Mesmer — Tue, 10 Oct 2006 07:35:44 GMT

The Talking Cure
by Elias Lawless
"La Violencia" is the term employed by Guatemalans to describe one of the bloodiest conflicts in the modern era -- the 36-year nightmare of guerilla war and government suppression, stretching from 1966 to 1996, when the state launched a violent campaign against the countryside, executing alleged guerrilla sympathizers and wiping entire villages off the map. More than 200,000 people-- most of them civilians-- were killed or "disappeared."
A United Nations-led commission calculates that 93 percent of the "human rights violations and acts of violence" were perpetrated by the Guatemalan government against the Mayan population of the country, action that by almost all reckonings amounts to genocide. Until recently very little has been done to officially recognize the facts of the genocide or to bring the perpetrators to justice.

That may be changing at last. On July 7, a Spanish judge acting within what he called "universal jurisdiction" in the interest of human rights, issued international arrest orders for officials responsible for the genocide. Among those named is past president Efraìn Rios Mòntt, who not only presided over the most gruesome chapter of La Violencia but who also remains a political heavyweight in Guatemala, having served as president of the National Congress in 2004.

Meantime, in Guatemala, members of H.I.J.O.S.-- Hijos e Hijas por la Identidad y la Justicia contra el Olvido y el Silencio (Sons and Daughters for Identity and Justice against Oblivion and Silence)-- constitutes a new front in the fight for justice. Largely made up of youth whose family members were killed or disappeared during La Violencia, HIJOS made its presence known first on June 30, 1999 at a public military celebration for the Guatemalan "Army Day." HIJOS shocked onlookers by disrupting the commemoration with screams demanding justice.

HIJOS' dissident street art and its campaign against Guatemala's ratification of the Central American Free Trade Agreement has drawn the attention of state authorities and other powerful forces within Guatemala. On Jan. 8 of last year, the HIJOS office was raided; personal agendas, organizational archives, computers, a megaphone and paint were stolen, while other objects of value were left behind. Several months later on May 12-- one day after three other Guatemalan social justice groups were raided-- the HIJOS office was targeted a second time. Again, numerous photographs and a laptop were taken, while more costly items were untouched.

Almost a week before the second raid, on May 6, two gunmen attacked HIJOS member Francisco Sánchez Méndez, attempting to force him into a car. He resisted and escaped. Then, last August, Francisco received an anonymous call to his cell phone saying, "You are going to die, son of a bitch."

Elias Lawless recently spoke with HIJOS organizers Raùl and Paco.

Many groups fight for justice but people say HIJOS has a distinct perspective, a manner of confronting the way people think. How do you view the HIJOS strategy with respect to interacting with the public?

Raul: Truthfully, we take various approaches, but above all HIJOS is concerned with collective memory, based on the idea that it's necessary to recognize, or have access to, the truth about what happened during the war. The crimes against humanity, the genocide, the massacres, the forced disappearances of our family members and, subsequently, how to access justice to overcome the structural situations of the war.

With respect to collective memory, we have worked through conversations, forums, video forums to recover this mostly unknown history. HIJOS has worked in other ways, especially through "muralism," Which is the same idea in a different form-- a way of recuperating the collective memory and to re-vindicate the struggle of...

Paco: ...economics, of the class struggle--

Raul: -- and to manifest a rejection of perpetual impunity for the criminals. So the idea is to recover collective memory with respect to the crimes of war, to the violations of human rights, and to also retrieve those processes of resistance that have been a part of the history of Guatemala [but which were nearly stamped out]. As Paco has said, also to bring to the memory the reality of the struggle between classes, which flowed into genocide, a form of brutal repression of the state.

And how can these processes of resistance serve as an example-- so that youth today can see themselves in the country's history and comprehend or encounter in some way this question of "Why does the repression exist?"

So we search for-- which doesn't always work so well [laughs] or sometimes maybe it does-- spaces in which to take action, right? To perform these type of activities. We've done some tiny investigations: organizational efforts with other youth in the country-- in Petèn, Chimaltenengo, Comalapa, Rabinàl... We've worked to register the problems rooted in La Violencia as humanitarian problems.

Paco: I think that more than anything else HIJOS has contributed to the capacity for many youth-- or maybe few really because we aren't so many compared to the number of victims and survivors of the war-- to express themselves in relation to what happened.

We say that we express ourselves as part of the "not official" history because nearly 10 years have passed since the signing of the Peace Accords but the real history is still unknown, it's not circulated at a general level. There are people still saying, "Oh, this happened in Guatemala?"

Again, that's one of HIJOS's principal struggles or objectives, to divulge this history, to contribute in a way that helps youth who lived this history to express it and tell it, like Raùl said, through diverse forms.

HIJOS is a space for that expression. It's not static. It's always in movement, forever part of an internal discussion, a criticism not only of developments occurring before or after the Peace Accords, but rather an internal critique of practices, because in reality many of us do not know what we want. Perhaps the only thing we desire is to create justice for what happened.

In fact, we're still constructing what HIJOS should be. We want it to be a space that restores the memory of the victims, the survivors, the heroes and the martyrs, and beyond reclamation, to continue their struggle. We believe that it serves no point to remember if you forsake the assumption of commitment, that you must not know the history if you do not engage yourself with the present in order to change it.

This article was written for Wiretapmag.org by Elias Lawless, who currently lives in Guatemala. It has been edited for length and style. Photographs by the author.

Wall tanslations:
1) "250,000 heroes and martyrs, 250,000 voices clamoring for justice. We do not forget, we do not forgive, we are not reconciled-- judgment and punishment for those who committed genocide."

2) "Why does it infuriate you if I paint with my screams on your wall while the rich, with their military, have stained our history with blood?"

July 31, 2006

Back to articles main page

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Cheap Flights

jazzlamb — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 05:10:18 GMT

Hello,

hope you are feeling good.

I'm heading down to Central America soon and am wondering if cheap flights are indeed available to get across Honduras and Guatemala?

muchisimas gracias

posted in Central America - 6 replies

Central america veterano has advice, and great buses for sale to serve the people

patrick — Sat, 20 May 2006 15:21:15 GMT

I'm a travellin' fool, mostly to the third world. Lotsa time in Central America, the Caribbean, and SE Asia.
I also travel by my buses, I have 27 or them, so if you need a bus, parts, or just advice, just yell

I'm still new to this tribe thing, but I am a nice person, and have the best buses in the world. I use school buses to haul medical and material aid to some of poorest places in the world (Haiti, Chiapas Mexico, El Salvador, and Nicaragua) and buy and sell them, and bus parts to support the project. I take every penny i make and convert it directly back into school supplies, medical supplies, tools, generators, and whatever the folks ask for specifically, (no junk, no used clothing) and then drive it down in person (except Haiti, that's $6000 thru the Panama Canal. Ouch)

I sell buses to folks that are 100% functioning in every way when they leave my hands, and also give any body thirty days to return the bus if unsatisfied. Nobody ever has, but it's OK, I'll just sell it to somebody else. you will also get a lifetime of free advice before and after you get a bus from me, I'm avaiable 7 days a week within reason, and after having dismantled 14 buses, and owning about 60,I am pretty knowledgable about their inner workings. Also got lots of good used bus parts, at the best price anywhere in the US. Ii have no overhead, just my Mazda mini truck and some tools.

I have a website (below) so you can check out my work. have a good one

Patrick Young
1970 Gillig Splendocruiser
Spicer 5 speed --fully manual
Powered by 8V79.5 CAT NA
4 wheel drive (the back ones)
Aka
the Wheelchair Project
Fresno, CA
http://www.fresnoalliance.com/wheelchairproject
(559) 251-3814 (559) 244-1042
WheelchairBusProject@yahoo.com

posted in Central America - 1 reply

Is this realistic?

Wed, 26 Apr 2006 18:32:55 GMT

My husband and I are planning on traveling around Central America from March - June 2007. We are interested in budget priced guest houses/hostels/beach bungalows, eating at cheaper restaurants/street food/self catering, and doing things like sun worshipping, jungle treks, scuba (limited amount), and just walking about. Anyway, would a budget of $40/day for BOTH be realistic? Or should I expect to spend more? Thanks for your help!

posted in Central America - 9 replies

buying land in Nica....?

matia — Fri, 12 May 2006 14:37:03 GMT

Hey ... i´ve been traveling for many a years and wondering if and when i may grow roots. Well i have an opportunity to stop for a bit and maybe buy land here on isla ometepe. I am seeking advice from those who have any for me.. in any form. THis magical island has welcomed me in and now ... and now.. we´lll see. There is alot more to buying land than just falling in love with a place. Smiles and love to you´all... thanks for any tidbits of info.
Matia

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Come visit Vermont www.baldmountainretreat.com

Bald Mountain Retreat, — Tue, 09 May 2006 21:42:50 GMT

Come visit Vermont www.baldmountainretreat.com

posted in Central America - 0 replies

guatemala, belize, honduras, el salvador

shonna — Sun, 26 Feb 2006 15:01:43 GMT

hola!
i'm in guatemala now and wondering what else i must see? so far i've spent time in antigua, in san pedro and san marcos (including a full moon party at rick's place... amazing), been marketing in chichi twice (the prices are actually better in antigua i think), and been trekking around nebaj (the experience of a lifetime but watch out for the food and i'm still wondering what these weird welt/bites i have all over my ankles are from). of course i'm going to be hitting tikal. what else? i'm going to be here for more than a month more.

then i'm heading to belize (the second time). i already know that caye caulker and san ignacio are incredible, and i love the belize zoo. this time i'm going to check out punta gorda too. what else?

then honduras and el salvador, but only for about 3 weeks in total and on a $25/day budget.

i'm interested in doing a cheap one or two day river trip... any suggestions? last time i canoed down the river in san ignacio and loved it. also interested in ruins that aren't lousy with (other) tourists.

also, if anyone is going to be in antigua in the next month and wants to hang out, i'm always interested in new tribe friends.

muchas gracias amigos.

posted in Central America - 3 replies

Volunteer work in Guatemala and Honduras

Thu, 09 Feb 2006 10:14:10 GMT

Hi folks,

I'm hoping to do some volunteer work in Guatemala and Honduras in July 2006 and was hoping others on the list could offer some suggestions in terms of who best to contact. I've researched volunteer work on the internet but have found volunteer organisations to be quite expensive and American owned. Is this the norm? Or are there volunteer communities already established which need volunteers without charging the them an arm and a leg?

Thanks in advance.

Natalie

posted in Central America - 5 replies

Driving to Panama ...

Indigo — Sun, 15 Jan 2006 21:23:19 GMT

I am in the process of planning a trip from Montreal, Canada to Bocquete, Panama. Originaly I wanted to to it on motorcycle, but now think I'll do it by car.

This will require crossing thru (USA of course), Mexico/Belize, Guatemala, El Savador or Hondras, Nicarugua, and Costa Rica. And, my Spanish is extremely limited ...

Has anyone driven much of ANY of these countries ... and what advise can you give me regarding border crossings, highway police, stoppinf roadside to rest, etc..

Peace,

:D

posted in Central America - 8 replies

nicaragua in april

aaminah — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 05:50:39 GMT

hi!

i'm planning to go to either belize or nicaragua in april... i'd like to go to nicaragua b/c i think it would be less touristy and just saw an article about it on the cnn travel page, so i'd like to go before it develops out of control... the thing is, i'm most interested in the rainforest... at first i was afraid that a lot of the rainforest had been cleared, but i've researched a bit & it seems like there are some rainforest preserves/biosphere areas... there is the indio-maiz and the mombacho cloud forest...
has anyone been to these areas? how is the transportation? i rented cars when i travelled through mexico & costa rica... but am not sure what to expect in nicaragua... has anyone rented a car in nicaragua? how are the roads? or should i look at alternate forms of transportation? according to the map i found online, it looks like there are few roads to or inside the indio-maiz biosphere...
i'd also like to go to lake nicaragua... to one of the islands in the lake...

i'd greatly appreciate any suggestions or stories of your experiences!

posted in Central America - 2 replies

Do your homework before you travel!

caguide — Wed, 24 Aug 2005 19:01:09 GMT

Again do your homework before you depart to either Mexico, Central or South America. Dozens of great up to date guide books available, many regional and others country specific, can be bought at local bookstores or ordered via the Internet, as well purchase the best maps available so you will be focused on arrival. Secondly, do a web search of teh country or region you are travelling to and if planning to travel in peak periods such as July-August, Christmas-New Years, Easter Holy Week (Semana Santa) and local Festivals (check in guidebooks) often lodging reservations are a good idea. If travelling alone, go to a travel destination and try and pair up with others travelling your way. A double or triple room in Latin America often costs only slightly more than a single and if you use ATM's always best to have a friend watching your back. Local Bus Terminals and City bus stops are nasty places, get in and out as rapidly as possible and use the first class and luxury bus services now plying all Latin America to travel between countries.
Your Tropical Guide
http://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/caguide/

Join our YahooGroup "Step Inside Central America" for all...

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/stepinsidecentralamerica/join

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Must see, Must do list!!

jazzlamb — Mon, 28 Nov 2005 06:10:10 GMT

Ola,

My girl and I will be headning down to Guatamala and the Central American region in between Feb and April in 2006. We are planning on either staying in one country and getting to know it or, travelling to several countries - Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, plus Guatemala.

Does anyone from there or who has been have any suggestions for places to stay, ancient cultures to see, good dive operations, hikes, restaurants, bus companies, friendly strangers...

Muchas gracias, y todo vivimos por bien tiempos

posted in Central America - 0 replies

guatemala travel advice

madame7 — Fri, 30 Sep 2005 06:06:46 GMT

hi,
i would like to possibly take my 6 year old son to guatemala in march. i spoke with a travel agent today who recommended flying into Cancun and then traveling to Guatemala from there. I want to visit Tikal and the volcanos especially. Has anyone gone there by way of Cancun? She said she thought it was safer than road travel from Guatemala City.I have also looked into tour packages--this is not really my style but since i'm traveling with precious cargo i can't be too careful, i hear that car jacking is a daily occurrence near Guatemala city. But i want the experience to be as non-touristy as possible with lots of free time to do our own thing. Are there tour agencies that offer such a thing? i am thinking now that traveling with a child, it might be a lot easier for me if i don't have to go looking for a place to stay every day and those tour packages offer that convenience. If i am able to do this at all, i need the whole trip to cost under $2000.

Any advice from those who have been there is much appreciated. Also,what kind of weather can i expect at that time of year in that region?

thanks
m7

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Mudslide!

Sun, 09 Oct 2005 21:32:33 GMT

Has everyone read about the mudslide that pretty much wiped out the Mayan villages of Panabaj and Tzanchaj on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala? If not, here is a link-

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4324038.stm

posted in Central America - 4 replies

We require your assistance for our magical Mayan world!

caguide — Fri, 17 Jun 2005 18:04:04 GMT

Dear Reader:

Any and all assistance given shall be glady reciprocated....If you are planning to visit Central America...from Guatemala through to Costa Rica at the present, and you require a bit of travel planning, or local lodging reservations or tips where to go and what to see on or off the "beaten path" from those of us who live, work and have family and friends in the region, speak the language and know all the subtle little ins and outs..next month July 2005 shall appear our website which shall be a bit different from the normal "come and stay in this hotel or resort and take this or that tour, or study in this or that Spanish school, or volunteer with that organization, etc." Oh, and please be warned that we have been in Latin America a long long time and have a sense of humor...those lacking a sense of humor and those planning not to arrive with asmile then NEED NOT APPLY. We require a bit, mot much, of help with web design, we require reps in the US, Canada (by the way you can now fly DIRECTLY here from Canada and there are some direct flights from Europe as well), Europe, Australia and Asia who would be willing to act as reservations reps on a commision basis "freelance", forwarding us inquiries in ANY language. All transparent, all above board, the situation now in the Central American Travel Industry, still in it's infancy is that many deserving small alternative operators, lodging places, native guides and folkloric artisans in our mystical "Mayan World" have neither the language skills nor the resources to market their services and skills "en el exterior" (abroad), so the "traditional" agencies who can afford to adverstise on The Internet "booking engines" and so forth, as well as the "Big Chain" hotels, resorts and rental car companies wind up crushing these "small independent operators" under their feet..well we shall never insult your intellingence by calling you a "tourist" and are associates and contributors (if you have photos and bloqs of your travels to our region) are always welcome here in Mundo Maya with us. For more detailed information E mail Mr. David Bloom (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Costa Rica) centralamericatraveltips@yahoo.com
or our Nicaragua and South America specialist Prof. U. Paz
paz@thepolyglots.com
Those of you who are able to provide any type of technical or web design assitance best eMail our Webmaster:
Alejandro
alejandromayorg@opzsolutions.com

Hasta pronto.
El equipo en Mundo Maya.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

good online calling cards for Central America to US

Fri, 03 Jun 2005 21:41:17 GMT

Hi everyone. Does anyone have tips for a good calling card for calls from Central America to the US? I want to send a card to a friend for his birthday. It has to be an online card so that I can just email him the information. (He's in El Salvador).
Thanks for any suggestions.

posted in Central America - 7 replies

Spanish Language Schools

caguide — Sun, 22 May 2005 22:16:25 GMT

Having been myself a guide and travel specialist throughout Central America for many years I would now recommend Quetzaltenango (Xela) a City in the highlands of Guatemala, with several small universities and an active Indingenous-Ladino cultural tradition. Many teachers are highly qualified and this is a "real city" and thriving commercial center as opposed to Antigua, which is charming at first, but expensive and crowded with tourists and grinds on one after a week or two view http://www.xelapages.com/ for the "top ten schools".

We have our own ethno cultural and handicrafts (Indingenous Nahuat ) and Spanish language program in neighboring El Salvador, less formalized with either home or private room stay and option to volunteer or not. Teachers and native guides will often accompany you out at night. Salvadorians are very hospitable and render excellent service. (Guatemalans are much more reserved) Our website will be on line within a few days with great logos and lots of Central American travel tips and links too..yay!!! Till then e mail centralamericatraveltips@yahoo.com for info.

Source http://www.goodtimebob.com/guat_traveltips.htm:
Language Schools in Antigua...though it applies elsewhere too:

"Thought I should post some info and ideas for those who are thinking about studying down here. There are a great many schools and most operate on the same system. Instruction is 1on1. Any other system just isn't worth it given the low cost of individualized teaching. Typical costs are $90 a week for 4 hrs. a day. They also offer 5 and 6hr. packages. As a teacher I would personally recommend no more than 4 hrs. if you are planning to study any length of time. In an intensive system your retention is going to drop as the day wears on. Can you bargain? Not a great deal. Some schools offer discounts if you pre-book. Check their websites for periodic offers. Most folks want to study in the morning. If you are willing to take afternoon classes you can often find a discount. Which is the best school? OK...I have never studied down here...learned my Spanish..and a few other things... in the back of a chicken bus. But I've talked to lots of students. Plus this summer I had several people with me who did study. Of course the teacher is what makes the experience...and they tend to move around. But the better known and more well established schools seem to attract the better teachers. My group was split between Ixchel and Tecun Uman. Out of 7 people all were happy with the level of instruction. One woman admitted she didn't learn much but said it was her own fault as she didn't do homework or study much outside of class. The others all felt that they had learned alot. I was with two girls...12 and 15. We put them in Ixchel based on prior research where I found out that they had experience in dealing with younger students. The girls did 6 hrs. a day for 3 weeks. Another school that has been highly recommended to me is La Union. Of all the language students there was one almost universal complaint. Those who were on home stays all complained about the food. Now...typical homestay is $60 a week. This includes 3 meals a day for 6 days a week. Sundays you are on your own. The market competition keeps prices down...but means that corners have to be cut somewhere. Everybody ended up supplementing by eating out occasionally or keeping munchies in stock. I visited seveal of the homestays and all were clean and secure..if basic. I did have one major concern and I think anyone planning on doing a homestay...especially women....should really think about this. That is the location of the homestay. All were in good neighborhoods. But several were in areas that involved walking through deserted streets at night. One woman was at a home that involved walking the last 6 blocks along dark and deserted streets. Antigua is about as safe as it gets....but even there you should exercise caution about walking alone late at night away from the center. That is just common sense. If you get to Antigua a few days before classes start find out some possible addresses of homestays from your school and take cabs there in the evening to see what the streets look like. Things can really change from day to night. Tecun Uman placed the people I knew in an area that is well traveled almost all evening. That might be a deciding factor. "

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Formalizing everything? Spanish Schools.

caguide — Sat, 21 May 2005 21:11:13 GMT

I can remember taking some clients from the USA who had just spent 6 weeks studying Spanish in a formalized Antigua, Guatemala Academy on their first excursion to the Indingenous Highlands...they did not know what "Vos" meant at all...informal "you" from old "Vosotros" then when I started speaking to some vendors in the native language Kak'chiquel in the market in Panajachel they went ballistic! Our native guides teach some slang, some street smarts and survival and sense of humor tips along with good Spanish too..my clients told me later they threw away $600.00 tuition on really nothing. and their host "family" gave them rice and beans 3 times a day and they slept in a dorm with other students "home stay?"

"STEP INSIDE EL SALVADOR AND CENTRAL AMERICA AS NEVER
BEFORE"

Are you tired of running from one overpriced
destination to the other on the "gringo trail" in
Latin America? Don't speak much Spanish and do not
want to enroll in an expensive or formalized
"academic" Spanish language program (learning formal
Spanish, verbs and conjugations, while you can be also
learning street survival Spanish with us and be out
joking, laughing and dancing with the natives in a
week instead of drinking rum and cokes in an "ex pat"
bar and grill on a tourist beach run by a surly old
salt who has seen thousands of gringo faces every year
and could care less where you are from!)? Have limited
time or maybe a lot of time? No matter, contact us for
a free consultation..
The experienced native artisan-guides take you to
places off the beaten path that "no tourist has been
before" ("Don't beam me up yet Scottie, there is
intelligent life outside the tourist traps on this
planet"!)

WHEN YOU WANT TO GO AND WHERE YOU WANT TO GO.......so
STEP INSIDE CENTRAL AMERICA WITH US LIKE NEVER BEFORE
AND DISCOVER THE UNDISCOVERED.....

Discover the Undiscovered El Salvador as well
connections and travel tips for Guatemala, Honduras
and Nicaragua..

Step inside Central America..Like never before..with
Insiders!

XOCHIPILLI CULTURAL AND ECO TOURS

A thriving El Salvadorian cultural center dedicated to
art and culture, expressing our original Pre-Hispanic
roots and style.

Centro de Arte y Cultura
Expresando al estilo del Origen

Indingenous Arts and Folkore, Mayan Mythology,
Journeys far off the “Beaten Path” All Lodging, Tours
and Transport arranged from our bases in El Salvador
and Guatemala throughout Central America and travel
tips for Mexico and South America travel survival
too...

E mail: centralamericatraveltips@yahoo.com

posted in Central America - 0 replies

I was a "travel spy" once in Central America!

caguide — Tue, 17 May 2005 20:09:23 GMT

read on....all travelers invited to join us please on www.trekshare.com and contribute...I see so many confused would be travelers on message boards wanting information on destinations from A to Z and the alarm goes off every time "some poor traveler" gets robbed somewhere overseas or gets overcharged or scammed by a tour outfit or through an internet booking engine. Anyone can write anything about themselves on the internet and put up beautiful pictures until you arrive a find an overworked and underpaid staff, guide or driver who have seen thousands of white english or german or japanese speaking faces and just have the hand out for the tip or commison. I know I am a travel pro who traveled "undercover" for the national tourist commision and police in a latin American country recently to report abuses and also recommend honest operations. Having been an honest guide myself, I was shocked viewing things from the other side. In cases of serious disputes, had my "carnet" or ID hidden, sort of a "travel spy" 1. learn as much of the language a spossible
2. surf the net all the travel forums specific to region where you are going and get some advices..sound ones..not "we got robbed and the country and people are rotten don't go there" type of advice..fair and balanced advice...
3. Buy those guidebooks and maps of course..and study up.
4. If the tour operator does not answer your e mail within a week, well try someone else.
5. don't try phoning or faxing to non English speaking countries unless you speak the language
6. Google..Google and more Google..do your homework

7. If traveling to latin america e mail me for tips at centralamericatraveltips@yahoo.com

New York, NY - March 12, 2003 - TrekShare is the premier travel-publishing tool on the web. Over 10,000 members have created their own travel websites in order to share images, travelogues, movies, and tips with friends and like-minded travelers while they are on the road.

The idea for TrekShare was conceived while Joseph Kultgen was working as a photojournalist for Juno Online in NYC. Joseph was looking for a platform to communicate with his friends while traveling through Africa. The existing communities on the net were either focused on pre-trip bookings, or post-trip nostalgia. Joseph wanted a platform to share his trek while on the road. With this concept in mind, TrekShare was created.

Over the past 3.5 years there have been a number of websites who have taken this original concept and started travel communities of their own. When asked about how they compare TrekShare co-founder Jeremy Ahrens remarks, "Travel varies vastly amongst different people. If you've ever considered taking a week off to hang out at a dude ranch, TrekShare is probably not for you. If you are looking for a club in London that stays open until 6AM so that you don't have to sleep on a park bench again, TrekShare is the shit."

Over 1.6 million pages of user-generated content has been uploaded and ranked by the active member base ensuring that 3000 destinations feature compelling content. Users are given an active voice in the evolution of TrekShare. The site has recently been streamlined and certain features regarded as distractions rather than improvements have been eliminated. "If I need a currency converter I'll find one somewhere else on the web." Member comment from TrekTalk.

TrekShare's four-year anniversary is just around the corner led by the momentum of their revolutionary member base. "The travel industry has been regurgitating the same old crap for years. I can't imagine thinking any guidebook or tour on the market is going to lead me to a good time. I'd rather get the lowdown from the members of TrekShare and figure the rest out myself. Then again I travel to explore." Member TNT.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Good Maps?

Marley — Mon, 09 May 2005 22:08:08 GMT

HI, I am new to the tribe.
I was wondering if anyone has any favorite sources for maps of central america, and particular countries. I am going to be meandering from the Yucatan to Guanacaste Costa Rica and having some rkind of general road maps of the area would be useful. I have been looking around the internet, but I was wondering if any one here had suggestions.

Muchisimas gracias!

MArley

posted in Central America - 3 replies

Current situation in Belize?

Wed, 27 Apr 2005 23:14:53 GMT

I'm headed back down Monday - anyone have any updates on what's going on there, or anyone just get back? Has phone and internet service been restored yet? Are buses running?

posted in Central America - 5 replies

Nicaragua anyone?

caguide — Sun, 17 Apr 2005 22:34:17 GMT

If ever in Nicaragua.

The Polyglots Nicaragua

Managua, Nicaragua

celular(Mobile) en Nicaragua is +(505)8237110.

SMS free via http://www.xolo.com.ni/ worldwide 8237110

E mail: paz@thepolyglots.com

http://www.thepolyglots.com/

http://www.thepolyglots.com/business/index.htm

Saludos, Donald Lee
If ever in El Salvador or Guatemala The Polyglots El Salvador-Guatemala

Tel: (Mobile) 011(503)7631335 from US/Canada or +(503)7631335 from anywhere else.

SMS http://www.digicel.com.sv 7631335

http://www.jetsetliving.com/article/postcard_from_latin_america.html

http://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/caguide/

E mail: donaldlee@thepolyglots.com or send me a message on tribe.net

Hi Donald,
>
> esperanza1 has started a thread in the forum called : "volunteer and live
> at a nicaraguan beach hostel" discussing Nicaragua, which you are a Travel
> Helper for.
>
> The thread is included below for your convenience.
>
> -------------------------
>
> Hospedaje Rancho Esperanza is brand new and was completed on March 15th
> 2005. Located on Nicaraguaâ€™s Northern Pacific Coast, the hostel is set
> on one of quietest beaches you will find in the country. Unfortunately it
> is not yet open for business but will hopefully be open by mid June. Until
> then, I am offering to rent huts and dormitory beds for two weeks or
> more to students, backpackers, artists, musicians, and writers. If you
> can handle a bit of rustic living without electricity and running water,
> I would like to share my space with you and create a communal living
> environment where food is prepared together, yard work is shared (consists
> of trimming the grass, emptying the compost, planting fruit trees, organic
> gardening), and shared conversation. Artists are more than welcome to use
> their creativity and decorate in anyway.
>
> The hostel consists of one large rancho with a second floor, serving as a
> dormitory, and six bamboo huts. All bathroom deposits are composted and
> will be used for a community garden in the future. Grey water is recycled
> and used to water trees. Hospedaje Rancho Esperanza will serve as an
> example of sustainable living for the community of Jiquilillo and will be
> offering volunteer opportunities (childrenâ€™s club, health community
> programs, reading classes, communal gardening) in the near future.
>
> Located on the Northern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua, Jiquilillo receives
> little to no tourist traffic. The community itself is a small fishing
> village where one can become acquainted with the locals very quickly and
> learn about Nicaraguan culture. With its long deserted beach, estuaries,
> and peaceful atmosphere, Jiquilillo is an excellent place to unwind and
> forget about life
>
> If your interested in a quiet, off the beaten track experience with quiet,
> clean beaches and no tourist traffic, Hospedaje Rancho Esperanza is the
> place for you. You will not find us in any guide book.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Travel Writers and Central America...

caguide — Mon, 11 Apr 2005 20:11:40 GMT

Traveling to Nicaragua or the rest of Central America?
A travel article such as the one below is a wonderful point of reference
and will give any prospective traveler to Nicaragua and the rest of
Central America great idea of where to go and stay and what to do see
during their journey. The only trouble I find with travel writers and
travelers who write journals is that usually they only visit the country
or the region they are writing about for a few days or weeks at most, then
move on to another destination to write another fine piece, that is their
business and I do not fault them for that.
My business is arranging travel, for business or pleasure, on or off the
“beaten path” to anywhere in Central America, any time of year, for any
reason:
If you are planning a trip to Nicaragua, would recommend to you spending
as little time in Managua, which is very spread out, hot and gritty and
experiencing the rest of the country from Colonial Granada, The Arts and
Crafts Markets of Masaya and the Pueblos Blancos, Lake Nicaragua and
Omotepe Island, San Juan del Sur and the Pacific Coast Beaches and Fishing
villages nearby, Momotombo and the other smoking volcanoes, Historic and
Revolutionary Léon (There is a tour operator based there who donates their
profits above operations to help Street Children, with international
volunteers), Matagalpa and the "Coffee Kingdom" in the cooler mountains
north of Managua and time willing, The Corn Islands out in the shimmering
Caribbean off of Nicaragua's mainly English-Creole speaking Atlantic
Coast, an 75 minute flight from Managua (no paved raods to Bluefields). I
can assist by connecting you with responsible drivers in Managua and
experienced native guides in the countryside, and reserve you places to
stay that will suit your budget and travel style from Basic Eco lodge or
Beachside Cabanas to elegant Colonial style 3 and 4 Star establishments
costing less than $50 Double a night. See we live and work here in Central
America and beleive that the people you come in contact with while
traveling, both those who are serving you and those you meet as friends,
make the "journey" ,not just your destinations, eateries and lodging
places. Good trip planning and travel management is what our organization
is all about, and once you are here we will introduce you around, if you
desire, as an honored guest of ours, not as a "tourist" with a dollar sign
on their face. Perhaps you may plan to stay longer one day and immerse
yourself in the Spanish language at fine academies located in Granada,
Esteli, Leon and Granada or plan to volunteer in Humanitarian Aid and make
lifelong friends. We live and work here and speak the language and are
immersed in local culture and customs and will introduce you to Nicaragua
and Central America the way you have never experienced it before.

If you intend to take a group or take a solo-vacation you should first
seek more information to secure a safe and fun trip. In short, avoid the
con men and do some homework. For more detailed information on independent
travel, reservations, language study, laws regarding business and
residency or volunteer opportunties contact Don Lee
donaldlee@thepolyglots.com

Nicaragua is best known not for its landscape and cultural treasures, but
for the Contra war, in which the people rose up, only to be pushed back
down by an US-backed government. Since then, widespread privatization and
deregulation have left much of the country in a state of shock.
The good news is that throughout this period human rights have largely
been respected and the country's battles are now confined to the political
arena. Nicaragua is a fascinating destination for those travelers who have
an awareness of history and enjoy getting to know the grass roots.

Warning
Since the end of the civil war, armed criminal groups have operated out of
the remote sectors of the northern and central regions including the North
Atlantic Autonomous Region (RAAN), particularly Bonanza and Siuna and
especially along the Honduran border. Travelers should exercise caution,
taking care to travel on major highways during daylight hours only. If
driving your own vehicle or renting one in Nicaragua never leave the
vehicle unattended with valuables inside on any public street and only
stay in lodging places that offer secure parking areas.

Full country name: Republic of Nicaragua
Area: 129,494 sq km
Population: 5.2 million
People: 69% mestizo, 17% European descent, 9% African descent, 5%
indigenous peoples
Language: English, Spanish
Religion: Roman Catholic (85%), Protestant (16%)
Government: Republic
Head of State: President Enrique Bolaños

GDP: US$1.11 billion
GDP per capita: US$2,200
Inflation: 3.7%
Major Industries: Coffee, seafood, sugar, meat, bananas, food processing,
chemicals, metal products, textiles, clothing, petroleum refining and
distribution, beverages, footwear
Major Trading Partners: Canada, Japan, Germany, Venezuela, USA, the rest
of Central America.

Facts for the Traveler

Visas: Citizens of the UK, USA, the Scandinavian countries, Costa Rica,
Panama, Isreal, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and European Union countries do
not need visas and are issued a tourist card (7.00 US) valid for 90 days
on arrival. Citzens of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras pay only 10
cordoba to enter/exit the country and autos bearing plates from those
nations may be circulate free of charges for 30 days. Autos bearing US,
Canadian, Costa Rican, Panamanian or Mexican plates about $20US for 30 day
permit to circulate. Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and
European countries that do not have reciprocal agreements with Nicaragua
will require either a visa or a tourist card allowing a 30-day stay
(7.00US). When exiting Nicaragua by land is a 2.00US Exit Tax plus 1.00
local tax enter/exit at Costan Rican border crossing Peñas Blancas,
departing by Air 25.00US Airport Departure Tax. Internal Flights Managua
to Atlantic Coast and return no departure taxes. Nature Air offers flights
3 times weekly from Granada to Liberia and San Jose Costa Rica and return.
*Good news for those unable or unwilling to fly through the USA on
transit: The new International airport in Liberia, Guanacaste, Costa rica,
only 1.5 hours from the Nicaragua border has now daily flights direct to
and from Canada.
>From Panama and Costa Rica northbound and Tapachula, Mexico, Guatemala, El
Salvador and Honduras southbound to Nicaragua operates daily the first
class TICA Bus Services, with unlimited stopovers in each country allowed.
www.ticabus.com
>From San Jose or Liberia Costa Rica is the economical "Centroamerica" Bus
a/c with video with terminal in Managua and stops in Rivas, Granada or
Masaya enroute if requested. A bargain at $10US one way.
>From Guatemala or El Salvador take either the TransNica or King Quality
First Class Coaches same price as TICA BUS $25 one way but superior
service.
For more complete info. on travel, transportation and security updates in
the region E mail Don Lee(see below)

Health risks: hepatitis, dengue fever, malaria, cholera, rabies, typhoid
Time Zone: GMT/UTC -6
Dialling Code: 505
Electricity: 120V ,60Hz
Weights & measures: Metric

When to Go
Nicaragua has two distinct seasons, the timing of which varies from coast
to coast. The most pleasant time to visit the Pacific or central regions
is early in the dry season (December and January), when temperatures are
cooler and the foliage is still lush. With the possible exception of the
last month of the dry season (usually mid-April to mid-May) when the land
is parched and the air full of dust, there really is no bad time to visit.
Nicaraguans spend Semana Santa (Holy Week) at the beach; all available
rooms will be sold out weeks or even months in advance. Check your
calendar regarding Easter Week if planning to travel March-April to
Nicaragua or any other Latin American country. There are usually rooms
available in Managua Semana Santa as the majority of capitalinos flee the
hot and polluted city for the week.

Events
Each town and city in Nicaragua has annual celebrations for its patron
saint. These celebrations (fiestas patronales) include distinctive masked
processions and mock battles involving folkloric figures satirizing the
Spanish conquistadors. The most famous of these saints' days are held in
honor of San Sebastian (20 January) and Santiago (25 July). Managua's main
patronal fete is known as Toro Guaco.

Money & Costs
Currency: Córdoba (C) Approx. 16.45 cordoba to 1.00US December 2004

Relative Costs:
Meals
Budget: US$1.50-4 Mid-range: US$4-8 High: US$8-12 Deluxe: US$12+

Lodging
Budget: US$3-10 Mid-range: US$10-15 High: US$15-25 Deluxe: US$25+
Comfortable travel in Nicaragua costs in the range of US$30 to US$50 a
day. A moderate budget will fall in the US$20 to US$30 a day range if you
hire a car occasionally. Budget travelers can get by on between US$15 and
US$25 a day if they confine themselves to public transport. The Caribbean
Coast is a bit more expensive than elsewhere in the country.

With the rapid expansion of the banking system, traveler's checks have
become easier to cash, but outside the capital only a handful of banks
provide this service. Casas de cambio (currency exchange offices) such as
Pinolero and Multicambios provide the service, but it's not easy to find a
bank that will do so. Bring some cash USD for emergency, also bring an
International Credit or Debit Card, best with VISA logo, as Mastercard
(Cirrus) outlets are hard to find outside Managua proper. On the road,
ATMs may be found at Texaco(full service) and Shell(On The Run) 24 hour
gasoline stations such asin Chinandega, Léon, Esteli, Matagalpa Masaya,
Granada, Rivas, etc. safer than Bank ATMs located out on the street, never
accept "assistance" from strangers, when using the Bank ATM in Granada's
Main Square, bring a friend, and be advise street children, who work for
adults may approach you offering assistance and budget lodgings after you
withdraw cash, politely decline. Never tell strangers where you are
staying or give your room number of your hotel, if you must carry large
amounts of cash then stay only in lodging places that offer security lock
boxes and take taxis or guided tours place to place. Remember the cash you
are carrying may be at least 2 years wages, for example, if someone left
$50,000 on the table in the US and left, I would be tempted!!! Always try
to tip children and young people who are working, such as shoeshine boys,
waiters and other service people, native Nicaraguans rarely if at all
tip(see below). Avoid the glue sniffing street kids. Don't feel "sorry"
for them, they have made their own choices.

All over Nicaragua, many moderately priced hotels and restaurants accept
credit cards, and in some parts of the country, even most of the cheapest
places accept them. Note that Nicaraguan córdobas cannot readily be
changed in any other country.
Most Nicaraguans do not leave tips in inexpensive restaurants. In good
restaurants you could leave up to 10% of the bill. Some restaurants
include a service charge with the bill, and this is usually clearly shown.
Don't confuse a tip with the nationwide 15% value added tax that is shown
on each bill. Be certain to bargain in large outdoor markets. The best
markets for indingenous Arts and Crafts are in and around Masaya, a
commercial center located only 25 Km.(15 miles)south from Managua and
12km.(8 miles) west from Granada

Attractions

Managua
The capital of Nicaragua is spread across the southern shore of Lago de
Managua and is crowded with more than a quarter of Nicaragua's population.
It's been racked by natural disasters, including two earthquakes this
century, and since the 1972 earthquake the city has had no center. Those
returning to Managua after a few years will notice marked changes. An
improving economy has produced a construction boom. It will be obvious,
however, that the recovering economy has not benefited everyone, as
poverty is still widespread.
Several of Managua's attractions stand around the Plaza de la República,
including the lakeside municipal cathedral, which has been reconditioned
with help from foreign donors and is now open to the public. Near the
cathedral is the impressively restored Palacio Nacional, which has two
giant paintings of Augusto Sandino and Carlos Fonseca at the entrance. The
Huellas de Acahualinca museum houses the ancient footprints of people and
animals running toward the lake from a volcanic eruption. The Museo de la
Revolución has interesting historical exhibits with an emphasis on the
revolutionary struggle of this century. For more information on Managua,
business and getting around(taxis in Managua and throughout Nicaragua are
plentiful and inexpensive from 5 cordobas a ride per person in Masaya and
Granada etc. to 10-25 cordobas per person in Managua where distances are
often long.

Laguna De Apoyo

There are also several lagunas, or volcanic crater lakes, which are
popular swimming spots. Barrio Martha Quezada is a residential district
with many simple, cheap guesthouses and places to eat. This is where
backpackers tend to congregate. On weekends there's dancing and partying
around Plaza 19 de Julio.

Around Managua
The large volcano at the center of Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya, which
still steams and belches, is surrounded by smaller volcanoes and thermal
springs. Legends say that the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of the area used to
throw young women into the boiling lava to appease Chaciutique, the
goddess of fire. The Spanish believed it was the entrance to hell,
inhabited by devils. Entrance to the park is only 23km (14mi) southeast of
Managua.
The Laguna de Xiloá, a stunning crater lake 20km (12mi) northwest of the
city, is a favourite swimming spot. At El Trapiche, 17km (11mi)southeast
of the city, water from natural springs has been channeled into large
outdoor pools surrounded by gardens and restaurants.

Granada
Granada, nicknamed 'La Gran Sultana'(The Great Sultan) in reference to its
Moorish namesake in Spain, is Nicaragua's oldest Spanish city. Founded in
1524 by conquistadors, it rumps up against the imposing Volcán Mombacho on
the the northwest shore of Lake Nicaragua. With its access to the
Caribbean Sea via the lake and the Río San Juan, Granada has always been a
main trade centre. Today the town is relatively quiet and a major literary
centre, and retains its colonial character. It's a wonderful walking city,
with most major attractions, including the cathedral and Parque Colón
(Parque Central), within a few blocks of the plaza. When you're ready to
cool off, the lake is only a 15-minute walk away. The Assumption of Mary
(third week of August) is the town's biggest party day. To ride the bus to
Granada, Masaya or Jinotepe take a taxi or city buses 102, 105 to "LA UCA"
Catholic University near the upscale "Zona Rosa" and Metrocentro Mall. The
"expressos" run 5AM-9PM are minibuses and cost 10 cordoba per person. The
"expressos" take you right into both Masaya and Granada, returning evey
10-15 minutes to Managua. For other cities and towns just ask any taxi
driver to take you to "Terminal a Léon, Rivas, Esteli, Matagalpa, etc."
Remember taxi fares double per person after 8PM. Never walk alone in
deserted or unfamilar areas at night in Managua, always take a taxi.

León
León is traditionally the most liberal of Nicaragua's cities and remains
the radical and intellectual centre of the country.
Monuments to the revolution, including bold Sandinista murals, are dotted
all over town, and many buildings are riddled with bullet holes. Though
scarred by earthquakes and war, the city is resplendent with many fine
colonial churches and official buildings. Its streets are lined with old
Spanish-style houses that have white adobe walls, red-tiled roofs, thick
wooden doors and cool garden patios. Its cathedral is the largest in
Central America and features huge paintings of the Stations of the Cross
by Antonio Sarria as well as the tomb of poet. Léon is by far the best
place in Nicaragua to study Spanish, and several schools offering courses
with home stay and volunteer opportunties operate. Léon is located 88 km.
(53 miles) northwest of Managua on the Pacific Coastal plain, hot climate.
Excellent Beaches nearby to cool off. Most Spanish Schools and many
excellent local guides offer weekend excursions all over the area.

“Managua, Nicaragua -- Even considering the turbulent and star-crossed
fortunes of Central America, this city seems unusually cursed: Flooded in
1876, leveled by earthquake in 1885, damaged by the explosion of a
military arsenal in 1902, destroyed by civil war in 1912, torched by fire
in 1931, struck by a polio epidemic in 1971 and rubbled further by the
civil war of the 1970s and '80s.
Add to that the still-fresh memories of the Sandinistas and the contras,
the death squads and the secret arms shipments, and it's no wonder
travelers still tend to associate Central America's largest and most
populous country with chaos and danger.
They're wrong. Today Nicaragua is mostly stable and safe, on its way to
becoming the next Costa Rica -- an ecotourism venue of smoldering
volcanoes, verdant rainforests and quiet, palm-fringed beaches just right
for a hammock siesta. Its roads are still rough, English is not widely
spoken and a few rogue land mines lie unexploded in the countryside, but
for adventurous travelers it's the perfect time to explore a destination
before it hits the big time.
Bullet holes and shrapnel marks still adorn many buildings, but
Nicaragua's fighters now use ballots instead of bullets. And when it comes
to crime, the country -- despite its reputation -- is one of the safest in
Latin America.
Travelers still avoid Managua, the capital city with 1.5 million people,
and with good reason. In 1972, when a mighty earthquake toppled more than
600 city blocks and killed 10,000 people, no one even bothered to rebuild.
To this day, most of the erstwhile city center still lies in ruins as a
patchwork of vacant lots and shantytowns. Use Managua as a gateway, but
get out as soon as you can into what's known as the "land of lakes and
volcanoes."
Life in Nicaragua is often measured by disasters, but there is a certain
beauty in the country's residents -- Nicas, as they are known -- a
strength to rebuild, reorganize and carry on with a smile. Nicaraguans are
tough as nails, a testament to human resilience. Three-fourths of the
population survives on less than $2 per day, but there's always a subtle
optimism that better days will come mañana. Nevertheless, Nicaragua
welcomes visitors with brazos abiertos (open arms).
Fire in the sweet sea
The magical sight of Ometepe Island's two volcanoes jutting out of the
murky waters of Lake Cocibolca is enough to send shivers down anyone's
spine. Also known as Lake Nicaragua, this mar dulce (sweet sea) is home to
rare freshwater sharks, sawfish and tarpon. When the sun sets every
evening, large colonies of vampire bats take to the skies. Towering above
it all, the active and lava-filled Concepción volcano stands as a reminder
of nature's power.
Should Concepción ever blow its top, there isn't much room to run. Ometepe
-- which in Nahuatl means "land of two volcanoes" -- is little more than
34 miles long and 8 miles wide, but its horrendous roads make
circumnavigating the island a half-day ordeal of bouncing, cracked axles
and busted rims. Breakdowns and problems are almost guaranteed. Roads wash
out, vehicles fall into ravines, herds of livestock block paths and in
some parts, mud swallows vehicles up to their hoods.
The island isn't quite ready for mainstream tourists, but those
adventurous enough to suffer the abuse of its roads will find some of the
greatest ecological gems in all of Central America: towering volcanoes,
hidden caves, thick jungles, cascading waterfalls and an abundance of
wildlife including sloth, capuchin and howler monkeys, and more than 80
species of birds.
Rising from the brush to reach 5,282 feet, Concepción is one of the most
perfectly shaped cones in Central America. It looms dramatically over the
island and exposes its rocky and jagged face, scarred from thousands of
years of lava flows and tremors. Although it last erupted in 1957, it
serves as a constant reminder of the earth's fury, belching molten lava
and sulfuric gases. As on many active volcanoes, the mixing of hot and
cold air creates an almost- permanent cloud at the peak. Those with the
strength and stamina can make the two-day journey to the top and stare
down into the bowels of hell.
Sacking Nicaragua
When traveling through the land of lakes and volcanoes, it's impossible to
escape its history of war, piracy and foreign occupation. Bullet holes
adorn colonial buildings, murals honor men with AK-47s, and the spirit of
popular revolution still lingers in the air. The conflicts have been over
for more than a decade, but at times it seems as if the dust is just
settling.
Founded in 1524 by Hernández de Córdoba, Granada -- also known as La Gran
Sultana (The Grand Sultan) -- is the oldest city in Central America. As a
port town and a symbol of Spanish wealth, Granada has always caught the
eye of powers and pirates.
In 1855, the notorious gringo adventurer William Walker stormed into town
with his mercenaries and declared himself president of Nicaragua. Walker,
a former Philadelphia lawyer and San Francisco newspaper editor, intended
to convert Central America into slave territory and build an 18-mile canal
from Lake Nicaragua to the Pacific. At that time, ships were traveling
between New Orleans and San Francisco by way of the San Juan River in
Nicaragua. Cutting through Nicaragua instead of Panama shaved more than
500 miles off the journey. After being dragged out of Nicaragua, Walker
kept returning to Central America until he was executed by firing squad in
Honduras in 1860.
Granada has a turbulent past, but many believe it has the potential to
become Nicaragua's crown jewel of tourism. While it is the country's
third- largest city, it retains a colonial atmosphere with a tranquil
historical center that takes travelers back in time. Vendors roll food
carts down cobblestone streets, families drag rocking chairs out to watch
the sunset and young boys shine shoes and knock mangos out of the trees in
the central plaza. In the early morning, old men whisk horse carriages
down dusty paths littered with roaming livestock and fish using nothing
more than a hook with a line tied around their wrists. And while rickety
trucks plow the streets, bikes and horses with homemade trailers are still
a popular means of transportation.
The narrow cobblestone streets weave through a patchwork of red-tile roofs
that contrast sharply with the deep blue skies. It rolls downhill to the
shores of Lake Cocibolca, just beneath the shadow of the cloud-covered
Mombacho volcano. The few gringos who wander down to this Nicaraguan jewel
find it to be worlds away from the chaos of Managua.
Just an hour and a half northwest of Managua, Léon -- a sister city of
Berkeley -- was founded by Córdoba in the same year Granada was
established. Buried by the Mombotombo volcano in 1610, the rebuilt city
had been the capital a few times before 1852. While Léon escaped some of
the piracy that infested Granada during the 1800s, it saw heavy fighting
during the Somoza era, as Léoneses contributed heavily to the revolution
from its earliest days. When the Sandinistas captured the town in 1978,
Somoza released his fury with massive aerial bombardments and tortured and
killed anyone suspected of sympathizing with them.
Even to this day, Léon remains a Sandinista stronghold, evident in its
political murals, voting records and occasional protests. On the outskirts
of the parque central, leftist paintings, murals and graffiti depict the
history of Nicaragua along with sarcastic portrayals of the CIA and
shrines to Latin American revolutionaries such as Che Guevara and Augosto
Sandino.
Hang the hammock
The days of war and revolution are over, but natural disasters are a
perpetual threat in Nicaragua. Forty volcanoes -- six of which are active
--
dot the country's horizon and play an integral part in its human history.
While they create fertile lands and thermal power, they also cause
catastrophic eruptions, mudslides and avalanches that have destroyed
entire villages. In January of 1835, Consiguina blew its top and threw ash
as far away as Mexico and Jamaica. Even extinct volcanoes can be deadly,
as demonstrated in 1998 when torrential rains filled the crater of the
Casita volcano and caused it to collapse. The resulting avalanche of mud,
water and rock buried entire communities and killed thousands.
Outside the volcano zone on the Pacific Coast, San Juan del Sur is
Nicaragua's premier beach town. But it's worlds away from a tourist beach
resort. In San Juan, pigs still root around in the park, chickens peck
around the chaotic market, men ride down the beach on horseback and locals
wade into the surf to fish for their next meal. All-inclusive resorts,
fancy tour buses and poolside bars don't exist here, and you'll never hear
Jimmy Buffett music playing in the background.
San Juan del Sur never was meant to be a place to kick back with a
margarita in hand. It is a place to travel back to a simpler time, soak up
Latin rhythms and hang with the locals. Most visitors spend their time on
the coast simply wandering around -- biking down the jagged coast to small
villages, hiking the dusty unknown paths that lead somewhere in the jungle
and riding in the beds of pickup trucks with bananas and livestock.
Eventually, they hack their way through the jungle to find their own
perfect beach, where there's nothing but them and the monkeys.
After the setting sun stains the skies purple, residents and visitors of
the coast loll in hammocks, sweat, drink beer, swat mosquitoes and listen
to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean. Without the rumbling of air
conditioners, the zooming of passing cars or laughing of throngs of
tourists, one can hear the insects' symphony throughout the night,
occasionally interrupted by a pack of howler monkeys. Under cover of
darkness, sea turtles fight the waves to seek out nesting grounds on
shore. It's easy to see why some travelers would trade in their resort
packages to hang a hammock on the coast of Central America.
Every night in Nicaragua, I went to sleep with a smile on my face,
thankful that I never heeded the advice to stay away.
________________________________________
If you go
Getting there
>From San Francisco, American, Continental and Taca Airlines offer one-
stop flights to Managua. Taxis travel between most cities for $25-$50 US.
Getting around
Road travel can be extremely dangerous. Never travel between cities after
dark (many cars have no headlights, and many drivers are drunk), and pick
your taxi driver as if your life depends on it - it does. Don't hesitate
to tell your driver to go mas despacio (slower).
Tour operators are starting to sprout up, with varying degrees of quality
and service. One of the best-known, Careli Tours (011-505-278-6919,
www.carelitours.com), offers short trips and multi-day excursions
throughout Nicaragua.
Good to know
As English is rarely spoken, a certain command of basic Spanish is
essential. Contrary to popular belief, Nicaragua is not a violent country
but sneak theft can be a concern, especially in Managua.
Where to stay
Hotel Los Felipe, 1 1/2 c. al Oeste, Managua. 011-505-222-7050. Friendly
staff, simple, clean rooms, TV, air-conditioning and phone; resident
exotic animals include a couple of mischievous spider monkeys. Many
travelers from neighboring countries stay here. $15 US.
Hotel Austria, De la Catedral, 1 c. al Sur 1/2 c. al Oeste, Léon. 011-
505-0311-1206, www.hotelaustria.com.ni. Immaculate air-conditioned rooms,
steps away from Parque Central. From $36.
Hotel Casablanca, Paseo Maritimo, San Juan del Sur. 011-505- 458-2135,
Beach views, 14 fine apartment-style rooms. From $57.
Hotel Colonial, Del Parque Central 25 metros al norte, Granada. 011-505-
552-7581, www.nicaragua-vacations.com. Just west of the park's northwest
corner, on lake shore. Large, clean rooms; patio, pool, helpful English-
speaking staff. From $50.
Where to eat
Nicaragua's main fare is gallo pinto, black beans and rice with eggs,
cilantro and other seasonings. It is usually served with chicken or beef a
la parridilla (grilled). Fish is another specialty.
T.G.I. Friday's, 5 km Carreterra Masaya, Managua. 011-505-277-3260.
Managua has a number of good restaurants, including this American chain.
No Nica fare, but a great place to watch Nicaragua's elite. $5.50-$12.50
US.
El Mediterraneo, Calle Caimito one block east of cathedral, Granada. 011-
505-552-6764. Great menu, English-speaking staff, garden patio. $10-$30.
In San Juan del Sur, everyone heads down to the beachfront restaurants to
have dinner and watch the sun set. All offer fresh fish, Nicaraguan fare
and some American dishes. Among the most popular:
Ricardo's, 011-505-458-2502, www.sanjuandelsur.org.ni/ricardosbar/main.
html. $4.50-$12.50.
Marie's. $5-$15.
For more information******
Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism, 011-505-254-5191, www.intur.gob.ni. “
Craig Guillot is a freelancer writer based in New Orleans. This is his
first article for Travel. To comment, e-mail travel@sfchronicle.com.
Calm, and adventurous travelers, returning to
NICARAGUA
Craig Guillot, Special to The Chronicle
Sunday, April 10, 2005

>From our “Nicaragua Tribe” Nicaragua
For those of you who are interested in this beautiful country
26 Members - Open Membership - updated 12/15/04
Public URL: whatinnicaragua.tribe.net

April 11, 2005 - 12:25 PM new
Re: Article on Nicaragua on SFGate
in response to: Re: Article on Nicaragua on SFGate

”Maybe it's just me, but I would have thought the writer could have found
one restaurant in Managua to recommend besides a north american chain.”

****Regarding information: Most National Tourist Boards, such as Intur,
rarely answer their E mails, especially if a message is in English, the
same phenomenon exists, unfortunately, in much of Central and South
America.

posted in Central America - 1 reply

Close THE S.O.A. ( The School of the Americas)

Teresita — Sun, 20 Mar 2005 05:19:51 GMT

This March 24th is the 25th Anniversary of the assasination of Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador The soldiers that were responsible for the death were trained at our Us tax funded training school for Latin American soldiers located in Fort Benning Georgia. For more info WWW.SOAwatch.com . Get informed, check it out!

posted in Central America - 2 replies

Traveling to Guatemala this week?

caguide — Tue, 05 Apr 2005 22:54:10 GMT

Need an informal guide?..I was one of the first "gringo guides" in the country from 1986 through 1993 view:
www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/caguide/ Message me or e mail me at salbiztours@yahoo.com and I will tell you how to get in touch with me.

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Que viva LA RAZA!

gomesla — Mon, 21 Mar 2005 20:44:49 GMT

Join LA RAZA tribe!

I just started a new tribe called LA RAZA that focuses on the struggles of the working class of the Americas. Come join and share your thoughts with like minded individuals as we celebrate and promote unity within the working class of the world!!

Check it out:
http://laraza.tribe.net/

Que viva LA RAZA!

posted in Central America - 1 reply

Gallo Pinto

Sat, 29 Jan 2005 19:42:00 GMT

Can't get enough of it when I'm travelling in Central America - I know there's a bunch of recipes online - but anyone have a recipe that they especially love?

posted in Central America - 9 replies

San Simon/Maximon

Teresita — Sat, 01 Jan 2005 23:03:41 GMT

I added a few pics of San Simon or Maximon as he is called by the Mams of Santiago Guatemala. I've heard he is a diety to some and answers prayers and He also can cause a person to become Psychotic .Is he good saint or bad? Regardless of the Catholic churches disapproval he in every Indigeneous Parade.
Tell me what you have heard or seen.My statue of him is in the closet for now!I'm psychotic enough.

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Immigration Information Needed

Scott — Mon, 15 Nov 2004 18:00:25 GMT

Folks, I am working on a web page for Americans seeking to expatriate, and am in need of reliable immigration information for Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua. If any of you have managed to get residence visas for these countries, I would like to hear from you.

If you are interested, you can visit the page I have already built, so far, at www.bidstrup.com/expat.htm

Suggestions and comments are welcome.

posted in Central America - 4 replies

Foooooood

Thu, 26 Aug 2004 18:47:52 GMT

So, you've been to Central America, traveld the roads, met the locals, etc.,etc.etc. What was the best food you stumbled across? Me, I just discoverd ceviche, yum!

posted in Central America - 19 replies

New Years Party

Sun, 28 Nov 2004 00:42:05 GMT

Where to go in Central America for the New Years Party?

posted in Central America - 2 replies

Agua vs Agua Mineral

Teresita — Tue, 09 Nov 2004 06:19:59 GMT

When I was in Guatemala I found it strange that when I asked for "agua" I got a soda(pepsi) and water was "agua mineral"? Anyone else encounter this?

posted in Central America - 7 replies

Where've you gone?

Sun, 15 Aug 2004 01:35:42 GMT

I've been to Costa Rica, twice. Travelled around most of the country, except the area around Corcovado (and the airfare seems so cheap to San Jose these days, I might just have to take a looong weekend soon!).

Last year I volunteered for a month in Guatemala. Spent most of my time working, but got to visit Antigua, the ruins at Ceibal and Tikal, and the Verapaz region (gorgeous!!).

Just got back from Belize this week - volunteering again, about halfway between Belize City and Belmopan. Didn't get to travel much again since I was working, but visited Xunantunich and Caye Caulker.

I think El Salvador might be next on the list!

So - where've you been? What's your favorite places?

posted in Central America - 7 replies

Ancient Maya exhibit in SF

Sat, 09 Oct 2004 16:15:25 GMT

Went to see this exhibit at the Legion of Honor last night. If any of you live in the area you should check it out. There's some *spectacular* pieces there (although always a bit sad to see artifacts that have been taken from the place they were originally intended for).

http://www.legionofhonor.org/legion/exhibitions/exhibition.asp?exhibitionkey=332

posted in Central America - 0 replies

New rainforest tribe

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 02:46:05 GMT

http://savetherainforest.tribe.net

posted in Central America - 0 replies

Free Rainforest Event in SF 8/31/04

Tue, 17 Aug 2004 18:34:39 GMT

Saving the Rainforests of Planet Earth
Tuesday, August 31st 2004 7:00 pm
San Francisco, California

Please attend and tell your friends to attend!
Saving the Rainforests of Planet Earth - an environmental education event on Tuesday August 31st from 7p.m.-12a.m. @ The Canvass Gallery.

The event will feature rainforest activists from the Bay Area explaining how they are currently saving the rainforests of planet Earth and how you can help!

This is a free event, with speakers, video footage, local artists, local musicians, shaman ceremonies, environmental activists, environmental nonprofit organizations, pristine Amazon herb samples, and a bunch of love and well-focused intent and action. So decide to be a part of Saving the Rainforests of Planet Earth and we'll see you on Tuesday August 31st from 7p.m.-12a.m. @ The Canvass Gallery @ 9th & Lincolon.

Location:
The Canvass Gallery 9th & Linclon San Francisco California

Contact:
Quanto Zeno
theenvironmentalmovement@yahoo.com
(415) 294-5091

posted in Central America - 4 replies