TRAVEL
TIPS
| Driving |
U.S
Driving Permit accepted |
| Currency |
(NIO)
Gold Cordoba |
| Electrical |
120 Volts |
| Telephones |
Country
Code 505, City Code Managua 2+6D, Leon 3+6D, Granada 5+6D,
Esteli 7+6D |
Climate
Tropical climate for most of the country. The dry season is from
December to May, and the rainy season is from June to November.
The northern mountain regions have a much cooler climate.
Clothing
Lightweight cottons and linens are required throughout
the year. Waterproofs are advisable during the rainy season. Warmer
clothes are advised for the northern mountains.
Food
& Drink
Restaurants, particularly in Managua, serve a variety of cooking
styles including Spanish, Italian, French, Latin American and
Chinese. Local dishes include gallopinto (fried rice and pinto
beans) and mondongo (tripe soup). Plantain is used in many dishes.
Other specialities include nacatamal, indio viejo, quesillo, vigorón
and roquillas. Food is often scooped up in tortillas instead of
using cutlery. Roast corn on the cob is sold on the streets. Seafood
is also available.
There are a number of cheap but good restaurants/bars (coreders)
where beer, often the cheap local brand, is available. Imported
beverages are available but shortages may occur in some areas.
Multicoloured fruit drinks made from fresh tropical fruit are
superior to bottled soft drinks. At the other end of the scale,
the few plush hotels have sophisticated restaurant/bars with a
choice of international cuisine and beverages.
Shopping
Local items include goldwork, embroidery, shoes and paintings.
Traditional crafts are available, particularly in Masaya, at the
handicrafts market. Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1900, Sat 0900-1800.
Tipping
Ten per cent of the bill is customary in hotels and restaurants.
No tip is necessary for taxi drivers but porters expect a small
tip.
