I had the opportunity to visit the country of Nicaragua for the second time since my arrival in Central America. This time I got a chance learn about the history of this unique country. I arrived on Saturday evening. I stayed in Grenada, which is the city that boarders the capital of Managua. Managua is the oldest city in Central America. It was first inhabited by native Indians, until the colonization of Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba in the name of Spain, which eventually changed the dynamics of the culture. Nicaragua was first known as the sister capital in Central America to Antigua, Guatemala. Its economy strives on tourism and exports. It’s also known as the poorest country in Central America. Upon arrival I saw the historical building and the architecture of the Spaniard influence. The roads are relatively small, but convenient and easy to pass through. Many locals spend there times selling merchandise to have a decent living. You can see the age rage, varying from the youngest, which were around seven years old, to the oldest, which were about 70. Many children are poor, and don’t have the funds to go to school, so the share the responsibilities with the rest of the family. As I walked through the streets, many asked me if I wanted drugs, sex, or anything to provide some kind revenue. It was shameful to witness this, and it made me more appreciative of what I had, compared to those who didn't have. I saw things that I only heard of, but never had the exposure to see with the naked eye, in my twenty- eight years of living. Walking down the street, I would never though I would see children sniffing clue and offering their bodies for sex. I was offered many times, and was discussed, because deep down, I understand where it came from, and that was the only way they knew how to survive, especially when the children looked on encouraging the tourist to buy their sisters or their mothers.If the children weren't in school they worked the streets as pimps or beggars getting money anyway possible, as they wanted a decent meal to eat. Nicaragua does not have many employment opportunities, but if relatively cheap to live. I ate breakfast for two dollars. And I ate lunch and dinner for two dollars. The cost of living is really cheap, especially for those who want to retire. This shed light of why so many Americans Germans Italians migrate there. The people of Nicaragua are extremely friendly and open to tourist. The best part of the trip came, when I had the chance to walk around the marketplace and mingle with the locals. Speaking and connecting with them anyway possible. They spoke in their native tongue, telling me jokes about the woman of Nicaragua, and how they liked dark skin men. The hostel where I stayed was very nice. They charged five dollars a night for a single dorm, which I thought was a great deal. The people at the hostel were friendly and generous, giving me a brief history lesson, about the pride of Nicaragua. It was evident from what I observe, many Nicaraguans weren' t rich when it came to money, but they find happiness in the small things. A simple discussion, walk, riding bikes, or horses back riding, walking with the company of friends and family, or even swapping jokes and stories, which makes their lives enriched. I really had a great time. Can’t wait to visit Nicaragua again. Next time, I’m going to visit another famous city there, called Managua. Hope you enjoyed the blog. :)
