Moon's Nicaragua Handbook

A constant companion during my latest trip to Nicaragua was the Moon Handbook Nicaragua (Avalon Travel Publishing, second edition) by Randy Wood and Joshua Berman. This highly recommendable guidebook is thorough and well-researched. Its authors show an impressive knowledge of Nicaragua's history, politics, and culture. They also supply a lot of good information on ecotourism and volunteering opportunities in Nicaragua. The maps are not indexed and consequently somewhat difficult to decipher (a shortcoming of all Moon Handbooks). Otherwise, it's by far the best Nicaragua guide currently available.

Nicaragua Redux

In October, 2006, I revisited Nicaragua after almost a ten-year absence. The presidential election campaigns were in full swing, and former Sandinista guerilla leader Daniel Ortega was predicted to win (which he eventually did). I found that much has changed in this land of revolution, and much remains the same. There are definite signs of economic growth. However, life for most Nicaraguans is still a day-to-day struggle for survival.

Nicaragua’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, vast lakes, handsome Spanish colonial cities, and welcoming people make it one of the most alluring countries in Latin America. Nicaraguans generally embrace increased tourism, seeing it as a way to create jobs and bring needed investment. Please check back for posts about some of the places that I visited in Nicaragua and suggestions for anyone wishing to explore this painfully beautiful and addictive country.

Staying Safe in Mexico

A spate of murders, traffic accidents, and shootings involving Canadians in Mexico have once again raised concerns about Mexico being a safe destination for tourists. Is traveling in Mexico risky? Yes and no. Over the past 25 years I have visited Mexico countless times without encountering serious problems. Having said that, Mexico’s annual murder rate is 10 times that of Canada, and petty crime is much more prevalent. It’s always possible to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. But, in my opinion, the rewards of exploring Mexico far outweigh the possible dangers. Here are a few simple things that I think anyone can do to minimize the chances of getting into trouble while in Mexico.

• Don’t flaunt cash or expensive possessions such as cameras and jewelry.
• Avoid loud and aggressive behaviour in public. Politeness is the norm in Mexico.
• Learn some Spanish before you go. Apart from helping you find your way around, knowing a few words of Spanish can sometimes get you out of tight situations.
• Be very careful crossing streets in cities. Drivers seldom yield for pedestrians.
• Take taxis after dark. Walking alone at night, especially in tourist zones, can be a good way to get mugged.
• Avoid large crowds and political demonstrations.
• Practice cultural sensitivity. A little understanding can go a long way in Mexico.

The Canadian Consular Affairs website has more information on Safety and Security in Mexico.