Direct decendants of Central America

Nicaragua is pretty stable now and for the traveler who is willing to go the extra mile to find the unexpected it is a great destination.

The capital city of Managua is the right in the center of the country. Many of the sights can be seen as a daytrip from there.

For real adventure head out to Bluefields the old pirates' nest on the Mosquito Coast. The atmosphere is Carribean there, with reggae and rum as central ingredients for a good time.

Spend time in the homes or visitors' cabins on the beautiful Miraflor Nature Reserve, near Esteli. Walk, ride, relax, swim in pools, look for quetzals and orchids; learn about fairtrade and organic coffee from the co-operative of small coffee producers and farmers, UCA Miraflor, which has an office in Esteli (website miraflor-uca.com).  This is true community eco-tourism; young local guides have been learning English so you have a great visit even if your Spanish isn't up to much.

Contrary to popular belief, Bermuda is not in the Caribbean, but is a group of islands North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of South Carolina. It is less than 20 miles in length and no more than 1/2 a mile wide in most places.

It is famous for its so-called triangle, which according to legend causes ships and aeroplanes to disappear mysteriously. The more natural explanation is that it is surrounded by coral reefs, the actual cause of many shipwrecks in years gone by. This however, makes for excellent snorkelling and scuba diving.

Its main industries are tourism and offshore banking. It makes for a fantastic beach destination, with its unique 'pink' sand. It is also a dream for golfers, with 8 golf courses. It has over 220 days of sunshine a year, and it never snows!

There are several big luxury hotels on the island, or you can rent a condo or stay at a B&B. You can also cruise here - the cruise ships dock along the side of the street in Hamilton, the tiny capital city! There is plenty to do, from tennis, golf and watersports, to hiring a moped and exploring the winding roads, to swimming with dolphins.

El Salvador got its independence from Spain in September 15, 1821 together with the other Central American countries. When these provinces were joined with Mexico in early 1822 El Salvador resisted, insisting on autonomy for the Central American countries. Although there was considerable pressure it has managed to stay a sovereign nation ever since.

San Salvador is the capital city. It is a modern city; the old capital was destroyed by an earthquake in 1854. Santa Ana is the second largest city of the country. It is only 50 km from the capital and lies in a rich coffee growing region on the slopes of the Santa Ana volcano. It is an attractive town with many old buildings. Excursions can be made to Lake Coatepeque and Chalchuapa.

Here are a few facts:

Full country name: Republic of El Salvador

Area: 20,752 sq km

Population: 6.59 million

People: 94% mestizo (Spanish-Indian), 5% Indian, 1% European descent

Language: English, Spanish; Castilian Spanish

Religion: 75% Roman Catholic, 20% Protestant

Government: Republic form

Currency:  $ US dollar (official)

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This El Salvador Travel Guide is a true reflection of the various unique El Salvador offering. Plan your vacation based on this and you are sure to have an unforgettable trip. Read on to find out more.

Getting There

El Salvador has an International airport in Comalapa. This airport is located 45 minutes away from the city. TACA is El Salvador's national airlines. It had frequent flight to and from several Central American countries. It also operates between North and South America. The airline is efficient and dependable. Several other airlines like American Airlines, Delta and Continental fly to this destination. Make sure to compare fares before you book you tickets to El Salvador. Also bear in mind that an additional $34 will be charged as departure tax, so inquire if the rates quoted by airlines include this fee.

Attractions

Get ready to be a part of the entire Eco tourism band wagon. El Salvador offers various breathtaking tours of the volcanoes and mountains that surround this region. El Salvador is blessed with pristine beaches and lush green forests. Visit the national park in Bosque El and explore the fishing village in the island of Mendez. Observe the Mayan sites and the pyramid in Tazumal. The capital city of San Salvador is a great place to explore the modern day El Salvador.

Accommodation

El Salvador is a perfect tourist destination, for it offers several stay options that fits every traveler’s budget. From city hotels, beach resorts to budget hotels and backpackers facilities, this place has it all. If you are looking at staying in the city then the best option would be the Holiday Inn, Hilton, Comfort Inn or Siesta hotel. For a beach resort experience, head to the Pacific paradise, Tesoro Beach or Las Hojas. The hostel El Roble is a famous backpacker’s paradise.  

Dining

El Salvador offers several international cuisines. The dining and restaurant scene is dominated by French, Italian, Chinese, American and several other world cuisines. You will also find Middle Eastern food like the hummus and pita bread here. Several fast food restaurants like KFC, McDonald's, Pizza hut and Burger King have a strong hold in El Salvador.

Nightlife

After sunset, El Salvador transforms into one big party Zone. The one mile strip of land in La Zona Rosa is famous for its night clubs, bars, pubs and other entertainment zones that go on until the break of dawn. Las Terrazas is a night club that should not be missed. There are several pubs and bars inside the malls around El Salvador.

The reason is obvious: this is a very beautiful area with white sandy beaches, cocotrees, great nighlife, happy and welcoming people. In the Caribbean you can find anything to make your holiday perfect.

The bigger countries Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic and Jamaica are probably most interesting to visit from a cultural perspective. Unfortunately they are not the quiet paradises the others arelike the secluded Anguilla, Saba and St. Martin/St. Maarten. 

This Bahamas Travel Guide will provide you with pertinent information you'll need to know about the area, traveling there, plus all the sights and places there are to visit. The Bahamas are comprised of approximately 5,000 square miles of land which includes a total of 700 islands, plus a couple of thousand mini-islands made of just sand and rock formations. While vacationing here, you'll never run short of things to do or places to explore.

Getting There

There is more than one way to arrive at the Bahamas Islands. If you prefer to fly there directly, you'll find a number of flights that travel here daily to the main airports located in Nassau and Freeport. If you're more adventurous, board one of the many cruise ships that travel here from various locations. If you take a cruise, you'll have the option of just spending the day in the Bahamas, or there are longer voyages that allow you to spend several days on different islands before re-boarding the ship for your voyage home.

Weather Expectations

Weather in the Bahamas is at a comfortable level of warmth year round. You'll also find cooling breezes from time to time which are quite refreshing. You won't find the scorching heat waves and humidity you might experience on other islands in the Caribbean, and for most visitors the temperatures are almost perfect. Some may worry that since the Bahamas are located within what's known as the "hurricane belt", it's not always safe to travel here. If you research hurricane reports and history of the islands, they are actually hit with hurricanes far less than one would assume.

Where to Stay

The Bahamas have a large number of hotels and resorts available for all different types of budgets and tastes. Choose from independent villas or rental properties, homey bed and breakfasts, or if you're looking to be pampered and catered to, there are 5-star resorts that can accommodate you.

Things to Do

Most come to the Bahamas to experience the tropical environment and warm luxurious waters. Aside from the obvious activities like snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving and surfing, you'll also find the islands are quite cultural and often engage in festivals of various kinds. If your favorite hobby is shopping, you will be happy to know there is an abundance of boutiques and shops to explore here. Nassau's Bay Street is the most popular with its historical buildings and brand names like Gucci, Fendi and Hilfiger.

Looking to take your vacation somewhere warm this year?   There are many great hotspots near the United States such as Central America that are relatively inexpensive to visit.   More exotic locations in Central America include the Caribbean and the Bahamas.   Any of these locations are sure to have activities for the whole family to take part in.   

Because of Central America’s large area, population and warm weather, there are countless restaurants, hiking and biking trails, and much more.   If you are looking to take a more adventurous route, hang gliding over a rain forest or river rafting may be for you.   Any of these activities can be done anywhere in Central America.     Cuisine however differs depending on the area that you visit.   For example, food in Costa Rica is about the same that is found in the United States.   However food found in El Salvador has Spanish influences so you can expect to find foods like tamales and pastelitos.   The Bahamas are one of the most visited areas by tourists in Central America because of its exquisite ocean view and exotic surroundings that it contains.   This English speaking country is located Southeast of Florida and is not difficult to navigate through because of the island’s relatively small size.   Some tourists are discouraged from traveling to the Bahamas because of several tropical storms that have occurred here in the past.   Despite its reputation for an occasional storm, activities such as fishing, snorkeling, and a variety of water sports make up for this small downfall. The Caribbean, located just North of South America, is also known for its tropical weather and crystal blue water.   Languages spoken here are English, French, Dutch, and Spanish.   Other languages are spoken as well so exchanging words with the locals is sure to be a breeze.   Snorkeling is a popular activity in the Caribbean where a whole other world of sea life can be seen.   Golf courses can be found all over the country as well as museums, natural attractions, and restaurants.   There are plenty of places to shop all over the country.   Even in the evening there is plenty to do here.   Clubs often have live music and shows to entertain those who are looking to have a good time.    No matter where you go in Central America, there are so many things to be done.   The best way to get the most out of your trip is to ask around and check the local tourist office.  

Guatemala has a surface area of 108.889 square kilometers (42,042 square miles). It is located in the tropical zone, and has a range of climates that varies according to the altitude. There are two seasons: the rainy months run from May to October, and the dry ones from November to April. The average temperature is 75° F, with small variations in the lowlands and in the highlands.

Guatemala has approximately 10 million inhabitants. A large percent belong to 21 ethnolinguistic Mayan groups who have retained the cultural traditions they have inherited from their ancestors. A lot of very interesting sights can still be seen, most of them in the northern department called "Peten". There are also mestizo, and the Carribean coast population, which has retained its afrocarribean roots.

Guatemala is a small country with a striking variety of topographic features. Nearly two-thirds of the country is mountainous and volcanic. Parallel to the Pacific lies the Sierra Madre mountain range, with peaks that rise to an elevation of up to 12.000 feet. 33 volcanoes dominate the landscape, and these, coupled with the lush tropical rain forests to the north, the fertile plains of the south and east, the beautiful lakes, and the wonderful rivers, make this a land of varied contrasts.

To this rich array of contrasts, one must add a major contributing factor to Guatemala's unique brand of beauty: its wealth of traditions, and the striking colors and patterns of the weavings of the Mayans. Noted for its lush colors and intricate design, the cloth is made into blouses called "huipiles", sashes, skirts and headdresses. Every group or town has its own particular native costume. Woven by its women, usually on a stick loom, its patterns feature the traditional symbolism that identifies their history and ancient gods.

Individuals such as Miguel Angel Asturias, recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature, and Rigoberta Menchú, the Nobel Peace Price recipient, have brought Guatemala international fame, but the country has given birth to many other great artists in all fields of art.

The marimba, which looks like a large xylophone and has a wooden keyboard which produces a unique sound, is the national instrument of Guatemala. Possibly of African origin, the Indians played a simplified version before the coming of the Spaniards. A large modern marimba requires up to nine players.

In the highland region of Cobán, very much in seclusion, lives a bird of rare beauty called the quetzal. If it is kept in captivity, the quetzal dies; hence, it has become the national emblem that symbolizes freedom.

With courtesy of the Guatemala Tourist Commission

Panama city, the capital, is lively, modern, cosmopolitan, and fast moving. Hip and smart bars and restaurantes, great shopping, beautiful Casco Viejo, Old Panama ruins, the Panama Canal, and the metropolitan park all make Panama city a destination unlike any other in Central America. 

David-City Panama is Panama's second largest city. In the last few years it has become popular with a growing number of international 'backpackers' crossing the frontier at Paso Canoas from Costa Rica. They have discovered Panama's beauty and value. In the last few years several new backpacker hostels have opened to accompany the famous Purple House Int'l Backpacker Hostel (yes, everything is purple!) http://www.purplehousehostel.com which was the first backpacker hostel to ever open in the city of David and the 2nd to open in the country of Panama.  New additions include Bambu Hostel http://www.bambuhostel.com that bills itself as a 'backpackers resort with a pool' and the Waterfall Hostel located just outside of David on the road to Boquete which sports several waterfalls, swimming hole and two huge pools next to the famous bar that has live music on the weekends. www.waterfallhostel.com, finally Lost and Found Jungle Lodge in the National Park 'Fortuna' is a must see in the Chiriqui David Panama area.

The San Blas Islands are hard to get to, but offer a unique insight into the Kuna Native american life. The Darien gap in the south is the most exciting bit of the Panamerican. There is a road all the way from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, but here it just stops. Thick jungle that can be crossed on foot or in little canoes is what you'll find, as well as very friendly locals and a once in a lifetime experience.

If you want to go snorkeling, scuba diving and enjoy the Caribbean livestyle the Bocas del toro archipelago offer the finest possibilities in the country.

Volcan and Boquete in the Chiriqui province to the West, offer the great opportunities for mountain hiking, ecotourism, water rafting, and great weather. It is a must destination for strawberry and raspberry lovers.

Malaria is a very small, and easy to treat risk (and only in the summer wet season);  Dengue fever is a risk throughout the year (for the aches and fever, take a lot of ibuprofen). The 2 private hospitals (in Belize City and Santa Elena) are more trustworthy than the government hospitals.

Some quick facts about Belize, you could use:

Location
Belize is located in Central America, just south of Mexico, on the Caribbean coast.

Language
English is the official language. Spanish, Creole, Maya,and Garifuna are also spoken.

Population
Approximately 300,000.

Time
GMT -6, which Central Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is not observed.

Currency
Belizean Dollar (1 USD is equivalent to 2 BZD).

Weather
Belize has a subtropical climate with an average daily temperature of 79F and humidity 85%. Temperatures vary depending upon location and altitude. However, summer high temperatures don't exceed 96F and lows rarely drop below 60F. Saltwater temperatures vary between 75F and 84F.

When to Go
Belize's high tourist season is late November to late April, which is also the dry season. The best months to guarantee good weather are March, April, and May. The rainy "green" season is June to mid-November with the heaviest rain occurring during September and October.

Electricity
110 volts, just like the US.

Entry Requirements
A valid US Passport is required. An extension is required for stays longer than 30 days. No visa is required for US citizens.

Immunizations
There are no immunizations required for entry.

Airport
Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE).

• Belize  is home to the longest barrier reef in this hemisphere.
• Belize offers hundreds of ancient Maya sites both excavated and jungle-covered.
• Belize has over 600 identified species of birds.

Some of the principal mountain ranges are volcanic, and visitors can easily access many of these areas. In the province of Cartago, for example, which is not far from the capital of San José , you will find Irazú volcano which erupted in the early sixties. Poás volcano, located in the province of Alajuela, has one of the largest active craters in the world. And, Arenal volcano, in the northwestern region, treats thousands of visitors each year to a constant stream of red, hot lava rocks tumbling down its slopes.

Beautiful forests grow in the crater of the dormant Barva in Heredia. Arenal, a young volcano in the northern part of the country, is constantly active (and is the site of a spa with natural hot springs). The country's highest peak, Mount Chirripó, is not volcanic; it measures 12.412 feet (On a clear day one can see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from atop Mt. Chirripo).

The bulk of Costa Rica's borders, sixty-five percent, is made up of coastline. Costa Rica has some of the world's most beautiful and idyllic beaches. Although the coast is not heavily populated, a variety of tourism projects provide access to a great deal of the nation's beach areas... Within Costa Rica, the longest distance you will ever have to travel to get to a beach is 75 miles. So in a way, the country is like a large tropical island.

Jaco Beach, located on the West Central coastline of Costa Rica is the most popular and visited destination in Costa Rica. It's close proximity to the airport in San Jose, and it's mecca of nightlife, tours, activities, restaurants, casinos, surfing and variety of accommodations makes Jaco Beach the top destination in the country.

You'll find Costa Rica's Fishing capital only 10 minutes North of Jaco Beach, at the Los Suenos Resort & Marina.

San Pedro Sula is in northern Honduras. It is the second largest city in Honduras after the capital Tegucigalpa. The focus of industry in Honduras, it is mostly a modern city (unlike more picturesque Comayagua, Tegucigalpa, etc). It is a good base for entering the country and visiting other parts, and offers modern amenites.

There are many day trips available at San Pedro Sula. You can hike through Cusuco National Park. Visit Taulabe caves and Pulapanzak Waterfalls. Have a boat ride and bird watching at Lake Yohoa. Swim at Punta Sal National Park exotic beaches. Walk through Copan's arqueological site and horse back ride in a coffee tour.

Tegucigalpa, the capital city of Honduras looks like a really big town spread out between the hills and valleys of central Honduras because there are very few high rise buildings. It is a relaxed place and an excellent starting point for exploring the country because it has good airline and bus connections to the entire country, including the Bay Islands. Many sights can be visited within a day from Tegucigalpa. Be sure not to miss nearby Santa Lucia, Andorra la vella National Park, and Comayagua.

Copan has some excellent Mayan ruins. The style differs a bit from those in Yucatan and Tikal. The many great carved stones or stelae are unique in their kind. The ruins are located in a tropical forest which makes the site even more attractive. San Pedro Sula is a good starting point for visiting Copan The Carribean Coast is worth a visit as well. Great beaches and completely different atmosphere with lots of Reggae and rum.

Utila the smallest of the 3 major Bay Islands off the northern coast of Honduras is a 60 minute ferry journey from the mainland port of La Ceiba. Utila is a very popular destination with backpackers who plan to learn how to scuba dive. Utila is renowned as being one of the cheapest places in the world to learn how to scuba dive.