The Passenger ⋆ Memories and hints of a travelling IT professional.

March 1, 2025March 1, 2025

Puente terrestre

Parque Arqueológico y Ruinas de Quiriguá, Las Viñas

Centro America typically consists of seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. This region, nestled between North and South America, offers a diverse range of attractions, from ancient Mayan ruins to lush rainforests and pristine beaches. It is an area of the world less known to the average European, but especially Spanish, German and French travelers are showing an increasing interest in Centro America. The region’s appeal lies in its rich cultural heritage, including 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as its focus on sustainable tourism and biodiversity. However, concerns about political instability in some countries and lingering effects of the pandemic may deter some tourists.

February 21, 2025February 28, 2025

Laguna de Tiscapa

The Laguna de Tiscapa is a volcanic crater lake in the heart of Managua, Nicaragua, offering panoramic views of the city. Perched on its edge is the Sandino Monument, a towering silhouette of General Augusto César Sandino, the revolutionary leader who fought against U.S. military intervention in Nicaragua during the early 20th century. The monument, erected in the 1990s, stands as a powerful symbol of national resistance and pride. The area surrounding the lagoon has historical significance, as it once housed the presidential palace and later the notorious Somoza family’s military headquarters. Today, the site serves as a tourist attraction and a place of reflection on Nicaragua’s tumultuous past.

February 21, 2025March 1, 2025

Plaza de la Revolución

Antigua Catedral de Santiago Apóstol, Managua

Located in the heart of Managua, Nicaragua, the Plaza de la Revolución is a significant historical and cultural landmark that embodies the nation’s revolutionary spirit and rich heritage. Formerly known as Plaza de la República, this expansive square has been witness to numerous pivotal events in Nicaragua’s history. It served as a focal point during the Sandinista Revolution and continues to be a gathering place for political demonstrations, cultural events, and national celebrations.

February 21, 2025March 1, 2025

Palacio Nacional

The Palacio Nacional in Managua, Nicaragua, stands as a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. Originally commissioned by President Juan Bautista Sacasa in 1935 and designed by architect Pablo Dambach, this neoclassical edifice has witnessed significant events in Nicaragua’s past. Today, it houses the National Museum, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through the nation’s history and artistic achievements.

February 20, 2025March 1, 2025

Las Isletas

The Isletas de Granada, a group of 365 small islands scattered in Lago Cocibolca near the city of Granada, were formed thousands of years ago when the Mombacho volcano erupted, ejecting massive amounts of rock and debris into the lake. Today, these islets serve various purposes, from private residences and vacation homes to hotels and eco-tourism destinations. Visitors can explore the lush vegetation, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the imposing Mombacho volcano.

February 19, 2025March 1, 2025

Mombacho

Volcán Mombacho, the iconic house mountain of Granada, Nicaragua, stands as a majestic natural landmark just 7 kilometers from the city. Visitors can easily reach the base station by bus or rental car, where they are greeted with an exciting adventure up the steep volcano. At scheduled times, published on the official website, tourists are transported up the mountain in trucks or pick-ups. This unique mode of transportation often provides Europeans with a thrilling and unfamiliar experience of riding in the loading area of a pick-up truck, adding an element of excitement to the journey.

February 18, 2025March 1, 2025

Tica Bus

Bus travel in Centro America offers a diverse range of options, from the iconic ‘chicken buses‘ to modern, long-distance coaches. Chicken buses, repurposed and vibrantly painted former U.S. school buses, serve as the backbone of local transportation in many Centro American countries. These colorful vehicles, known for their crowded interiors and frequent stops, provide an affordable and authentic travel experience, connecting rural areas to urban centers. In contrast, companies like Tica Bus offer more comfortable, long-distance travel options with air-conditioned coaches. These modern buses typically operate between major, providing a more convenient and faster alternative for travelers covering longer distances.

February 17, 2025March 1, 2025

Playas del Coco

Coco (or Playas del Coco) is a charming coastal town in Costa Rica‘s Guanacaste province. Unlike many popular tourist destinations, Playas del Coco remains relatively uncrowded, offering visitors a more relaxed and authentic experience. The beach itself is not the most picturesque, but its tranquil atmosphere and calm waters make it an ideal spot for those seeking a laid-back beach vibe. The beachfront promenade features a variety of amenities, including local vendors selling coconuts, adding to the casual charm of the area. Despite its understated appeal, Playas del Coco is well-equipped for both relaxation and adventure.

February 16, 2025March 1, 2025

Termalitas

In for some hot springs? The Termalitas del Arenal in La Fortuna offer a unique outdoor bathing experience with multiple pools of varying temperatures. Visitors can enjoy everything from ice-cold plunge pools to steaming hot springs reaching up to 42 or 50 degrees Celsius. The facility also features two exhilarating water slides and a sauna, though the latter differs from traditional European saunas in its atmosphere and intensity.

February 16, 2025March 1, 2025

Arenal

Volcán Arenal, an iconic stratovolcano in Costa Rica, dominates the landscape near the town of La Fortuna. Standing at 1,633 meters, this once highly active volcano has been in a resting phase since 2010 but remains a breathtaking sight and a major draw for tourists. La Fortuna itself is a small, relatively unremarkable town that serves primarily as a base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. While the town offers basic amenities and accommodations, visitors typically spend little time there, instead focusing on the numerous outdoor activities in the area.