The Couple's Guide to Getting the Most Out of Nicaragua

While Nicaragua doesn't seem like the ideal spot for a lover's retreat, this couldn't be further from the truth. The Central American country offers beautiful beaches on both the east and west coasts, watersports, tasty food, and wonderful accommodation. However, the best part may be it's affordability; but don't let cost fool you, Nicaragua is a friendly country with a unique flavor. So gather your spouse or significant other and head off for this Central American gem.

San Juan Del Sur Image

This town, nestled on the Pacific coast of the country, is the premier destination for couples looking to travel or rekindle the flame. The weather is between 75 and 85 degrees year round, making the beach a perfect place to sunbathe or take a swim. Have a romantic dinner at El Timon, an upscale restaurant that features steamed octopus as its featured delicacy. Check out some of the Nicaraguan hotels in this town, many of which keep the love-stricken couples in mind.

Explore the Volcanoes 

When you aren't falling in love all over again, you can indulge your wilder side and explore one of Nicaragua's 23 active volcanoes. Most of the hikes on these volcanoes are easy to moderate difficulty, so traversing them is fairly simple. Once you get to the top, soak in the views of Nicaragua's diverse ecosystem. The best volcano to climb might be Cerro Negro. Not only is the view spectacular, but you can sled or board back down to the bottom, which is worth the trip in itself.

Go to Granada

Located on Lake Nicaragua, Granada is the oldest city in Central America. Founded by the Spanish in 1524, Granada's architecture is nothing short of spectacular and unique to the continent, such as the Guadalupe Cathedral or Iglesia De La Merced Tower. You can also walk around the town and visit various markets, shops, and restaurants and explore the life of a native Nicaraguan.

Eat and then Eat Some


While it may not be as famous as other Latin American ethnic foods, Nicaragua offers cuisine with distinct flavors and aromas. Although it is a small country, the food differs from coast to coast, with the Caribbean coast incorporating much more seafood. Be sure not to miss Fritangas, which are restaurants that make authentic home-cooked entrees. Enjoy chicken or pork dressed with local fruits, such as plantains, beans, and rice. And sampling the food wouldn't be complete without trying Nacatamal, a Nicaraguan style tamale, Indio Viejo, or Gallo Pinto, the national dish of Nicaragua. Amazingly, these dishes average a price of about $2.

Jicaro Island

To truly embrace Nicaragua all by yourselves, the ideal couple should travel to Jicaro Island, which is a resort island in Lake Nicaragua. The rooms offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Each room is its own private two-story building, which will leave you in complete isolation with your love. During the day, you can travel back to the mainland, go kayaking, enjoy the infinity pool and yoga deck, or visit Mambacho nature reserve. It's all here on one tiny island.

Without a doubt, Nicaragua offers an awesome getaway for a couple, young or old. And what better place to spend time with your significant other than a place that offers wonderful food and sights, and even more importantly, the experience of a lifetime. Whether you're planning your anniversary or just a surprise, Nicaragua has what you're looking for.

Sources:

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/nicaragua/southwestern-nicaragua/san-juan-del-sur/things-to-do

http://gocentralamerica.about.com/od/nicaraguaguide/p/Nicaragua_Food.htm