Saturday, February 16, 2013

Off to Granada Nicaragua

Just a bit of info:
Granada is the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua .
  • There are 6 main churches : the Cathedral, La Merced, Guadalupe, Xalteva, San Francisco and María Auxiliadora, which all have interesting historical backgrounds and are in very different states.
  • Fuerte La Polvora is an 18th century fort (built in 1748) that's open for tours. A few historical exhibits are available on the main level, you can climb the towers for views of the quiet city streets, or wander through the lovely courtyard.
  • Lake Cocibolca (also known as Lake Nicaragua), is the 10th largest fresh-water lake on earth and is inhabited by Bull Sharks, informally named the Nicaragua Shark. The beach area is not the safest area in town at night and comes with a rather unpleasant smell during the day. However, during the day this is a nice place to catch a breeze, and there are many Nicaraguan families that come here to pass the time. Vendors pass selling all kinds of food. Tours of the islands are available from Puerto Asese, near the pleasant Asese restaurant (known for its boneless fish).
A bit further along the shore is the Centro Turistico, a park like area complete with bars and restuarants. It's a bit cleaner then the beach right down from the city.
  • The local market is definitely worth a glimpse, it's chaotic little market stands where you can get almost everything. The market is open everyday except holidays around and in the old Market hall, you can't miss it.
  • The Central Park with the Cathedral and the Colonial houses surrounding it. The lively center of town with a lot of handicrafts or snacks to buy, or just sit down at a bench and watch the city and its people.
  • The streets themselves with their charming Colonial colored houses are always worth a wander themselves.
  • Take a boat tour of the Isletas. Boats leave from the marina at Puerto Asese. Your guide will tell you how all the islands are owned by millionaires. You will even visit an old fort that is on the island. Not to mention you will see adorable monkeys that live in the tree.
Here are some photos of these . 1st the church



Then the Isletas and monkeys with the MIllion dollar homes.





Then the streets of Granada with the horses all decorated up fancy

1 comment:

  1. Great placce! i love the old culture of Granada the same with Hanoi, halong bay vietnam.

    ReplyDelete