Into The Arms Of America - Tips for budget travel in Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Costa Rica by blogger and journalist Bas Timmers

Traveling during the corona pandemic: a diary

on September 6, 2020October 8, 2020 by Bas

When I told my friends of my plans of traveling Latin America during the pandemic, there were only two possible reactions: disbelief/dismay (are you crazy?) and jealousy (I wish I could travel again as well). So when I started this adventure on September 1st by flying to Mexico City, the ... View Post

Nicaragua

Brief history of Nicaragua

on October 15, 2020March 28, 2020 by Bas

Talking about Central America's history has two recurring milestones: the conquest of the Spaniards in the 16th century, and the unashamed geopolitical power games of the United States in the 20th century. The harshest example of the latter is the history of Nicaragua. Should we start with the end? In ... View Post

Nicaragua

Charco Verde: a green paradise on Ometepe

on October 5, 2020March 28, 2020 by Bas Ometepe, Nicaragua

There is a small sign on the side of the only main road on Ometepe island. Turn right to Charco Verde natural reserve, it says. But why would you do that when you have tho beauty of two volcanoes left and right of you? Well, to start with these volcanoes: ... View Post

Nicaragua

Laguna de Apoyo: a day in a volcanic lake

on September 30, 2020October 5, 2020 by Bas Granada, Nicaragua

The surrounding volcanoes dive steep down... and go straight into the water. The lake itself is almost a perfect circle. And when you sit here on the beach, you almost have the feeling that Laguna de Apoyo is all for yourself. How to spend six hours at a lake? Initially ... View Post

Nicaragua

Quick guide to Granada

on September 15, 2020October 5, 2020 by Bas Granada, Nicaragua

It has it all: a waterside location, colonial architecture, warm weather all-year round and a backdrop of volcanoes. Granada is the quintessential Central American mainstream tourist destination. It is the perfect base for exploring the indigenous villages around, or the active volcano or Laguna de Apoyo around the corner. The ... View Post

Carlos Fonseca statue in Morazan Park in Matagalpa

Nicaragua

Quick guide to Matagalpa

on September 5, 2020October 5, 2020 by Bas Matagalpa, Nicaragua

Welcome to coffee country. You are now officially off the beaten track in already off-the-beaten-track Nicaragua. Matagalpa is pure Central America, a dirty bustling town occupied by lovely people and surrounded by magnificent hilly landscapes. It might take time before you appreciate all this, and it requires a lot of ... View Post