I have started a new love affair with Central America. I spent almost one month in Guatemala and Nicaragua, but that was not nearly enough. When I started my RTW trip I assumed one year would be plenty of time, but now I realize more time is needed, especially for an area like Central America. Therefore, I plan to visit Central America again in one year! I want to share the top ten most memorable experiences/random tidbits/reasons I love Guatemala and Nicaragua!
Guatemala
- Being Tall! – For once in my life I was the tallest person. I’m only 5 ft 4 in, but in Guatemala I was a full head or two taller than most people. It was cool to be tall for once. Maybe I can be Guatemala’s next top model, eh?
- Super Friendly People – I’m used to living in NYC, which is stereotypically “unfriendly” due to individuals being on their own agenda. While in Antigua whenever (99.9% of the time) I passed someone on the street I was greeted with a smile and a “Buenos Tardes” or “Hola”. Everyone genuinely looked happy. When everyone is friendly in a city, I immediately feel more comfortable and have a home away from home.
- Learning Spanish – I highly recommend going to Antigua to learn Spanish. In just two weeks, I learned enough Spanish to comfortably travel across Spanish speaking countries. For more details check out my post on learning Spanish in Antigua.
- Semuc Champey – Visiting these natural turquoise pools was a relaxing and beautiful experience. It was nice to find natural beauty in the middle of nowhere. For more details, check out the Semuc Champey blog post.
Looking for more info on Guatemala? Check out my trip report on Atlas Guru
Nicaragua
- Volcano Boarding – If you are friends with me on Facebook, then you probably saw some pretty cool shots from my Volcano Boarding experience in Leon. In the states, I’m not sure if Volcano Boarding would be allowed due to safety regulations, but in Central America, anything goes! Speeding down a volcano on a board was definitely a fun, unique adventure!
- The Vortex of Casa de Olas – I ended up staying at the hostel, Casa de Olas, a week longer than expected. Even though this hostel is more expensive ($15 per night) than other places in San Juan del Sur, it somehow sucks you in. The owners, an older Australian couple, are like caring parents, but also want to ensure everyone has a fun time. There were 3 free open bars during the 10 days I was there. I would wake up each morning, enjoy my free breakfast of either banana pancakes or fried eggs, jump in the pool to refresh, and enjoy the beautiful view overlooking San Juan. The staff encourages an “anything goes” environment, which creates the perfect setting for a free-spirit like myself. Message me, and I’ll tell you some stories from SJDS nights.
- Riva’s Season Opener – I am not a baseball fan, but baseball is a popular sport in Central America, so I figured I should check out the Riva’s team season opener. One of the bars, Nacho Libre, in San Juan del Sur organized a party bus to the game. During the 30 minute drive to the game, all 18 passengers were passing around shots of rum and cans of beer. By the time we arrived to the stadium everyone was in a good mood. The game was super crowded, it seemed like all of Nicaragua was out here! I sat down next to some locals, who seemed to think I was funny with my broken Spanish. They shared their drinks with me, while I encouraged them to show team pride and start some chants.
Both Countries
- Avocados! – There are avocados everywhere. In the states, I have to pay an extra $3 just to add some guacamole to my Chipotle Burrito, but in Central America they put guacamole on everything for no extra charge! Avocados are basically given away in this part of the world. The avocados are more delicious and make me oh so happy. (P.S – It wasn’t all about the avocados. The restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala were pretty good too!)
- People Love My Hair – I have never gotten so many compliments before, but it seems that people are obsessed with my hair. Looks like I’ll be rocking the fro for a while ;). I’m also adding a new section to my website dedicated to afro’s. Anytime I meet another traveler sporting a fro, their picture will be added to the Fro-etry Gallery.
- Various Forms of Transportation – Traveling in Central America might not be the most comfortable, but it is creative. How many people can we stuff in the back of a van to get from point A to point B? I don’t mind being crammed in the back of a pick-up truck since it creates a more social environment, and provides a better view of all the surroundings. My favorite form of transportation would be via motorbike. Although I can’t drive a motorbike myself, hopping on the back of someone else’s bike and riding the unpaved roads creates a lil’ thrill-seeking adventure.
Currently I am traveling around South America, and I must admit that I am missing my Central America vibes. I know I will be back.
I have seen volcano boarding before and I would LOVE to do that one day! It would be so amazing!! Love your posts and Instagram. Your story about the cab driver and you getting lost was very funny!
Oh my god!Thank you for sharing this wonderful and amazing post.Absolutely love it !
Oh my god!Thank you for sharing this wonderful and amazing post.Absolutely love it and i am expecting more from you.