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Eat, Sleep, Play - Nicaragua

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There’s good value to be had in Nicaragua - think American size portions at Bolivia size prices. And if there’s one thing you do in Nicaragua, make sure its volcano boarding at sunset near Leon. Oh yeah!

EAT

Leon

El Sesteo - When arriving at night, not knowing a thing, here’s a clean, decent spot right on the plaza to drop your bags, order a rum and coke, and watch the kids play soccer outside the cathedral. A little pricey, but given its superb location, we can just be thankful it’s not a Starbucks. Calle Central.
Lebanese and Pizza Joint - You’ll spot it off the main plaza by the flags of the world painted inside, and the table-size pizza option. Prepare to wait over an hour for your pizza, but it’s pretty good all the same.
Tip Top - The Nicaraguan KFC. Popular with the locals, which is always a good sign, although you might have to bite hard to find the chicken through the deep fried batter.
Taquezal - The table opposite consisted of 18 Norweigen Spanish students, and that was about all that was memorable. Jalapeno sauce, by the way, is quite cheesy this part of the world. Opposite the Teatro Municipal.

Granada

Nica Zoom Burger - It’s an American sports bar, proud of its kitsch and slow to serve, but there’s no denying the quality of its burgers (the best in Central America?), the homemade fries, and certainly the best Bloody Mary I’ve ever had. 75c double Cuba Libres go a long way during happy hour, and owners Wayne and Cheryl are most hospitable. Points for the old Rolling Stone and Spin Magazines. Calle El Caimito.

PLAY

Leon

Volcano Boarding - Head over to Bigfoot Hostel to book this awesome adventure, personally guided by Bigfoot’s uber-man owner, Darryn of Oz. The sunset, an active volcano, orange overalls, a plank of wood, and you. $20, with no waiver forms! Definitely a highlight of the country. More on Bigfoot at www.bigfootadventure.com
The Cathedral - Although it’s the largest in Central America, it only gets interesting when you pay $2 and climb on the roof, which offers brilliant views of the 13 volcanoes that surround Leon. Don’t step on the eggshell domes, and if you feel like waking every person in town, give the old bell a ring.
Don Senors - Bad top 40 (how many times can you hear Black Eyed Peas?) popular with square-jawed, open-mouth Americans and local flirts. Watch out for the cover charge.
Via Via - Opposite Bigfoot, bar and restaurant that buzzes on its chosen night. Best caprinheas I’ve had in a while.



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