I took a little break from IT to do some yoga, and wanted to share the little things I learned by visiting Nicaragua. I carefully chose the title of this blog post. This is literally all I know.
- Weather: It’s hot AND humid. 80 degrees, you say? No problem! But with 80-90% humidity? Be prepared to sweat non-stop, unless you’re sleeping in air conditioning. Bring bottled/filtered water with you everywhere. Take the pack of gum out your pocket because it won’t last, and it will ruin your pants pocket and wallet. If you’re not staying in a place that has AC, just about everything (clothes, sheets, towels) will be damp. Bring some plastic bags in case you need to store wet items. There most likely will be cheap laundry services in town, equipped with washing AND drying. If anything becomes permanently damaged (mold, for example), contact your renters’ insurance, as your belongings should be covered.
- Wildlife: You will get bitten by mosquitos and many other little bugs. Wear bug spray basically all the time and bring a LOT of it. Depending on where you are, there will be praying mantises, flying beetles the size of small drones, frogs, crabs of all sizes, and scorpions. Most of these things is just plain cute. Hopefully you’ll get to see baby sea turtles off into the ocean to find their true calling, or maybe see a mama sea turtle laying eggs on the beach. Again, super cute, AND inspiring.
- Money: Cordobas are the currency in Nicaragua. 30 Cordobas = 1 US Dollar. Most touristy places take US Dollars. Definitely bring some cash.
- GO TO THE OCEAN! When I was there, the water was warm. It was my safe-haven from the heat. Wear sunscreen! The sun is, like, right there *points to equator*.
- Fun Stuff: surfing, sloth sightings, hikes to waterfalls, inexpensive (and expensive) shopping, massages, volcanoes (not fun, but you know, to look at). Drink coffee and eat chocolate.
- More things to pack: a small head lamp (for staying in a non-city setting), flowy clothes, a light (not thick) beach blanket, some Immodium.
- Language: Re-learn your Spanish skills or download an app.
The last thing I’ll say is, activate your international calling plan if you can! Wifi es no bueno.