Ive been to plenty of beaches and accommodations are plenty in Nicaragua. Many great places to eat, chill and enjoy Nicaragua. Dont forget Las Peitas for great pizza. Full prices for more than 50 products in both countries. So, youre heading either to Costa Rica or Nicaragua! The fact that one hasnt experienced certain aggressions, and certain social violence doesnt mean that they dont exist, and its important that we pay attention when the people say that theyre on the receiving end of xenophobia or that theyre living with exclusion, classism, racism, she reflects. And, since most beach travelers who de-board at Liberia head to a select few beaches in Costa Rica, those who expand their horizon ever so slightly have access to some of the most pristine and tranquil beach experiences that are difficult to find on the Costa Rican side. Whichever country you travel to, however, wed recommend learning at least some basic Spanish before you goboth you and the locals will be glad you did! cant wait to do visit this beautiful country. You no longer need the PCR test. In fact, they do a lot of school groups so even younger kids love this. Yes, we have been following the situation as well and are sad to see how much the situation has deteriorated in the last few months. Considering that Nicaragua and Costa Rica offer many of the same natural highlights, its almost astonishing how different the prices are. I personally know the owners who have created a unique lodging option in the heart of historic Granada. We say things like I dont like to plan things out or I am all over the place or just go with the flow. the estimated difference in money purchasing power United States Share this infographic! I was astounded at the spewing gas and fumes and that visitors are actually allowed to get upfront and close. (It is important to note that I wrote this blog post before the civil unrest that impacted Nicaragua starting in 2018. Your blog post is awesome! Personally, I love both of these countries equally for different reasons! It draws an international crowd and while on my most recent trip in May 2021 (yes in the middle of the pandemic), I noticed more higher-end properties and hip bars and restaurants. Oh, how exciting for your sister! Treat your body with a relaxing massage, nourish your body/face with a natural mask or energize your body and skin with our signature coffee/ coconut oil scrub, two of Nicaraguas finest ingredients. Id hesitate to recommend mainland Honduras to first-time visitors of Latin America, thoughit doesnt have quite the beaten path that Nicaragua and Costa Rica do, with the exception of the islands! Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Those buses that you showed, are really a very dangerous option. But if youre looking for an adventure spot perfect for a family or friends trip, I highly recommend the Pacaure Outdoor Center. You wander the globe in a new found freedom that no generation has ever had before. Tolls are not really a thing in either of these countries. In the case of the August 2018 march, there was a different march called the next week in the center of San Jose, where the Costa Ricans chanted, Ticos y Nicas are brothers. Generally speaking, beaches on the Pacific side have more surf. Umm, that was in the 80s. The long history between Costa Ricans and Nicaraguan immigrants has shaped families and friendships, although discrimination and xenophobia still persists. Costa Rica sounds a great place for those surreal beaches and plenitude of adventure activities. I have not been to both the place but now I know both and can pick if I have to choose. I love both these places and while they seem similar, there are definitely pros and cons to each of them. Join the Elsewhere community and ask a question about Costa Rica or Nicaragua. I can go on. (1 kg), Tomatoes As previously mentioned, Nicaragua is more of a newcomer to the mainstream tourism industry. Costa Rica vs US: Cost of Living, Salary & Prices comparison Expenses for a backpackers vacation at a busy beach-town in Costa Rica will likely end up costing a similar amount than an all-inclusive eco-retreat experience at a private, pristine beach in Nicaragua. I just showed her your blog post and all this great information really helped her to start researching all her questions/fears/worries etc. Nicaraguans have sunk roots in this other country, have formed family and friendships, but have also confronted hostility due to their nationality, their accent and their economic circumstances. of options to choose from in both Costa Rica and Nicaragua! Unless youre on an organized trip with a guide or tour operator, youll need a rental car to explore and enjoy what these countries have to offer. These same very capable (and adorable) men are also chefs preparing riverside lunches, breakfasts, and dinners at the property. Prices appeared to almost double as soon as we crossed the border, and the most noticeable thing about it was the other than that not much had changed. Its a very yogi word thats blowing across all of our vocabulary. Two countries that end up getting compared and contrasted a lot are Panama and Costa Rica . I cant tell you how many people were shocked when I announced I would travel alone to Nicaragua. The median after-tax salary is $360, which is enough to cover living expenses for 0.6 months.Ranked 8251st (TOP 89%) in the list of best places to live in the world and 2nd best city to live in Nicaragua. Book Condo Hotel Xalteva, Granada, Nicaragua. The average cost of living in Nicaragua ($614) is 1% less expensive than in the United States ($2213). Loved the way you have laid out all the facts of both these countries. Foreign Policy Tiny Nicaragua is becoming a big problem for Joe Biden The ruling family colorful, corrupt and ruthless has embraced the Kremlin and crushed what remains of the country's. There seemed to be more taxis and transportation options available for getting here and there. You dont need anything else no insurance, no onward travel, no health pass. McDonalds. When in Granada, Nicaragua, I always land at Condo Hotel Xalteva. My understanding is that things have died down a lot and that tourists are starting to return, but we havent been back personally. A more complete history appears in the video below. CR got several alive volcanos, w the Arenal as the most beautiful of America. Nicaragua is a little rougher around the edges which I find interesting when Im traveling. Jorge, Karlas son, married a Nicaraguan, Melissa Miranda, and now both of them live in Heredia, Costa Rica with their son, born in Costa Rica. This translates to their culture which, in turn, ties into my bad-boy little brother analogy. But if you want to raft and hike away from the tourist scene then this is a safe bet for you. If you click through a link on Our Escape Clause, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Media and public perceptions thus sensationalize any danger or unrest in the country. So, yeah, I know all the nooks and crannies of this southernmost city. by Costa Dulce Team | Feb 3, 2020 | Costa Rica vs Nicaragua, Ecotourism, Nicaragua, Scroll down for an update on Costa Rica vs Nicaragua during Covid-19. / It's Cheaper One of the biggest factors that Boomers consider when looking at retirement locations is the cost of living. Theres a saying among travelers in the region that the food is amazing in Mexico and gets worse the farther south you get, and we definitely agreed: Mexican food is delicious, Guatemalan food was great, and it is basically downhill from there. Read more reviews and experiences of your fellow travelers here! See the 12th Havana Times Photo Contest First Cut See now, 12th Havana Times Photo Contest First Cut, Demonstrators Call Out Mexican Government, Media for Enabling Femicide Crisis, XII Havana Times Photo Contest First Round Survivors, Grey Afternoon, Villa Clara, Cuba Photo of the Day, US Border Patrol Apprehends 6,530 Nicaraguans in May, New Way to Send $$$ to Cuba Avoiding Regime & US Embargo, Ortega Confiscates Recreation Center in Condega, Nicaragua, Cubans Get a Crash TV Course on Basic Capitalism, Nicaragua: False Witness Turned US Parole Beneficiary, Jailed for Reporting News of a Religious Procession, WHO Warning on Childrens Exposure to Junk Food Ads, Cuban Gov. For my style of travel which Id call bohemian chic, Id say Nicaragua is a very good value for what you get. Ecuador's immigration process is fairly painless. That idea is based on some characteristics of the majority of the immigrants who for decades have come to the country. Karla married a Nicaraguan and had three sons in Costa Rica. Please enter price information for your location (France) to help assist us in making these comparisons more accurate. Consumer Prices Including Rent in Costa Rica are 61.1% higher than in Nicaragua: Rent Prices in Costa Rica are 101.4% higher than in Nicaragua: Restaurant Prices in Costa Rica are 92.0% higher than in Nicaragua: Groceries Prices in Costa Rica are 41.4% higher than in Nicaragua: Local Purchasing Power in Costa Rica is 87.0% higher than in Nicaragua We dont want to be negative about it, because its an incredibly beautiful place with lots to offerbut for travelers like us who prefer to be a tiny bit more off the beaten path in exchange for lower prices and less crowded adventures, Nicaragua is the clear winner in the contest of Costa Rica vs Nicaragua. Its a small city, well known on the tourist circuit, has great restaurants, and is completely walkable. Just a short five-hour flight from most US cities, it provides a tropical getaway without the nasty time zone changes. Accessible only by ferry, its rural but has a well-developed, rustic-style tourism base. Round #1 - Lifestyle Hacks Winner: Nicaragua One of the best ways to improve your lifestyle when living overseas is by hiring domestic help, something many can't afford in North America. Good decision, congrats ,Nicaragua is the best country of Central America because is safest, kind people and beautiful places to visit.Nicaragua full of volcanos , beaches , and rich food and fruits. You wont starve, and there are several tasty Nicaraguan and Costa Rican foods, but we dont sit around daydreaming about the cuisine in Nicaragua or Costa Rica either. But please do some research in advance of heading there. Are masks required while out? How do I get around in Nicaragua? Book the one your mind envisions. Ive done the flight from the capital cities of San Jose, Costa Rica to Managua, Nicaragua. My experience in Costa Rica cant be compared with the experience of a Nicaraguan migrant who comes from an economically disadvantaged background, Consuelo Mora reasons. Comprised of seven countries, each with its own unique history and breathtaking beaches, it can be challenging to decide on a single destination. Nicaragua is a great place to learn but many try and do it at the crowded and more popular surf breaks. Nicaragua Costa Rica; Economy - overview: Nicaragua, the poorest country in Central America and the second poorest in the Western Hemisphere, has widespread underemployment and poverty. No thank beaches are full of plastic staff. , https://www.nicaragua.com/travel/eco-tourism/, https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g294477-i2982-k6784336-Costa_Rica_vs_Nicaragua_vacation_destination-Nicaragua.html. (0.33 liter), Bottle of water Its only 75 kilometers from the border with Nicaragua. Live or Retire in Nicaragua, a comparison versus Costa Rica - Pacific Lots You also need a filled out health pass (this one here https://salud.go.cr ) and proof of onwards travel, for example your outward flight or a bus ticket. For people who are less accustomed to traveling in Central America or within the developing world in general, those tradeoffs may be absolutely worth it! HAVANA TIMES Telling the story of the Nicas in Costa Rica means understanding the lives of hundreds of thousands of people whove remade their lives in a country different from their own. Costa Rica or Nicaragua have similar beauty but they differ in infrastructure, more crowded, crime -rate and Language barrier. A local family with their pickup truck had us hop in the back as we raced down a bumpy road honking and wildly waving. In a good way. I am glad that I saw this post. Whether its climbing a volcano on Isla de Ometepe, volcano boarding (basically sledding) down a volcano outside Leon, or peering into the lava-filled crater of a volcano at night near Granada, you will not leave Nicaragua without an incredibly memorable volcano experience if thats what youre after. Theres a perception within Costa Rica that the Nicaraguan community is homogeneous. All you need to know about Playa Escameca, Nicaragua: beach, vibes, and surf. Nicaragua. But thats the thing: in Nicaragua, we never had to go looking. We loved the culture, we loved the landscapes, we loved the adventure, we loved the cities and towns and we also really. This is a pure treat; soaking in thermal springs while gazing up at a volcano. It definitely is all down to preferencetheres not a bad option on this list! One of the myths about Nicaraguans is that they take jobs away from the natives, even though for years the Nicas have occupied jobs in construction, agriculture, domestic services or as security guards that are no longer attractive to the majority of the Ticos [Costa Ricans]. Its lovely to really see that integration, its where we should be going. Elemental Yoga Flow So many of us have the word flow misunderstood. Safety first is their motto with many of the guides having been members of the Costa Rican rafting team. > I invite you to live in a dream. Jorge Lola is both Nicaraguan and Costa Rican. If we were to pick one Central American country to head to for a return visit tomorrow, it would be Guatemala (a close second to the Nicaragua of 2017 in the region for us). (1 liter), New Volkswagen Golf 1.4 (standard edition), Taxi trip in downtown area I dont think, so because I personally have done many journeys to Nicaragua, and my family and I have enjoyed all the night in different places and city of Nicaragua without any problem ; in addition we have done the best tourism of our live. Things have settled down more now. This allows many travelers who choose Nicaragua to stay longer and experience more of what theyre looking for in a Central American vacation. Nicaragua ranked 145th vs 5th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world. More on this trip later. Its a statistic that reveals the importance of the mixed families, families that experience and forge a Tico-Nicaraguan identity. Why is such behavior disparaged? Looking at the number of Covid-19 cases and deaths, Nicaragua is doing much better than Costa Rica, which might be due to Nicaraguan people living in quite spread out villages with only little close contact inbetween communities. Facts and Figures. Warm weather and adventure travel make me happy. Bottom line: I consider Nicaragua and Costa Rica on par from a safety perspective if you follow my advice above. I brought my Open Mind Adventure group of women travelers here without a hitch. I long for the 72-82 degree year round days! But sometimes you need to find a decent budget for food. And my most favorite place to do it is at the Pacuare Outdoor Center. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. 9882. Denis, You sound like a jealous Costa Rican. I went there knowing essentially nothing of spanish but como estas and hola. After the two years, I came to speak fluent spanish and gained amazing friends and I absolutely love the people. Connections are genuinely made with tourists not because they are tourists but because they are human and because the people genuinely want to share and connect with other cultures and people. On one trip with another mom and our 11-year-old boys, we missed the bus that would take us to the ferry dock for the return trip to the mainland. 2022 MyLifeElsewhere.com All rights reserved. Paul, why are you talking about burgers and pizza at 5:30am. Personally, we greatly preferred traveling in Nicaragua vs Costa Rica. For me including Steripan in my packing list, is most essential item during planning a trip to Costa Rica or Nicaragua. 5 Things You Should Know before Learning to Surf, Top 5 Beaches around San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua | Blog. CRC A few scattered about. Awesome pictures.. totally loved them. 27% of territory are National Parks & Reserves. With this kind of development comes a more organized approach to tourism and the expectation of safety. That measure greatly reduces the risk of tourists spreading the coronavirus. Visiting volcanoes of Nicaragua post covid pandemic seems like a plan. . Yes, its that big, all 3,000 square miles of it. By logging in or registering, you agree to our. We previously lived in Tamarindo, Costa Rica for 5 years. There are some Ticos who even use the phrase Dont be a Nica, when someone behaves badly. Very interesting this article. The statistics used to build this comparison are calculated using data from users just like you. Costa Rica is well known as an ecotourism destination to find quiet beaches and lush jungles, while it is actually Nicaragua that has the largest rainforest of Central America (home to 7 % of the worlds biodiversity!). Locals say Buenos Dias passing you on the street and youll soon be noticed as one of the few gringos. Such remarks that may seem innocuous, disguise cultural prejudices. This has kept it more affordable and less developed than nearby Costa Rica which has been a tourist and expat hotspot for years. Costa Rica on the other hand I have taken family out for late night beach walks. Karla has left her native country three times due to its political instability, Daniel Ortega, and the FSLN. In the context of Costa Rica, Nica designates the poor Nicaraguans, the dark-skinned Nicaraguans, the Nicaraguans with less experience and less formal education. She remained until the civic rebellion of 2018 that was brutally repressed by the Ortega regime. Costa Rica and Nicaragua are two beautiful places with jaw-dropping beaches and friendly locals. Make a full day of it at Laguna Apoyo, one of the most serene, clean swimming lakes youll come upon. If its your first time outside your home country, or youre on a family trip, this alone might be a big enough draw to pull you to Costa Rica. You may be surprised to hear this but it is true. Grateful, and with a sense of belonging to the country that took them in, they also maintain their identification with the country they came from. There are higher-end restaurants in both these countries, but the real culinary magic happens on the street. I am thinking of moving to nicaragua. This, we readily admit, is partially our fault: we didnt try hard to find offbeat Costa Rica away from the tourist trail, as we spent most of our time there with family. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_intentional_homicide_rate. Many resorts in Nicaragua arrange a transfer directly from the airport in Liberia to their front door, which takes only an hour more than a trip to one of the nearest by Costa Rican beaches. Dont forget Las Peitas for great pizza. Whilst comparing Nicaragua vs Costa Rica did this guide help you? What tour companies do you recommend? However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Check prices for Safety Wing Travel Insurance in Costa Rica or Nicaragua! I love Central America, and like you mentioned, each country has its own quirky, you simply have to identify which one suits you best. Vs Cons. Hola all you wandering souls. There are many tour operators for this kind of exploration so its easy and reasonably priced to have a guide, both on the trail and for ground transportation. When comparing Nicaragua or Costa Rica from a cost standpoint, Nica will be less expensive. Wed do that on vacation, religiously, twice a year, Moreira recalls. CR was rated in 2019 happiest place in the world. Costa Rica is officially on the list of places that have been discovered by big tourism, and as a result, national parks and other highlights can get crowded quicklyespecially during the high season. In full disclosure, I have not traveled at a luxury level in Nicaragua so I cant really speak to that. Its still hungry for tourism (especially after the pandemic when there were next to no flights going into the country) so prices are still low by North American standards. ), 9 Ways That Long Term Travel is Cheaper Than You Think, 19 Bucket List Worthy Things to Do in Belize, The Epic Experience of Horseback Riding in Nicaragua (On the Beach! My cousin Tom built this rainforest property some years ago and it just keeps getting better. See my site Policies (1 kg), Gasoline Got Travel Insurance for Central America. The cost of living in Nicaragua While Central America isn't as cheap as Southeast Asia, prices here are very reasonable. With a Costa Rican father and a Nicaraguan mother, she was born in Costa Rica and spent her childhood there. Whereas the Gulf of Fonseca creates a stark break in the coast between Nicaragua and El Salvador, and Costa Ricas southern border with Panama doesnt share the coastal qualities that tourists flock to in the central and northern regions, much of Nicaraguas south-Pacific coast is a carbon copy of Costa Ricas busiest tourism beaches minus the excess of people. Overall, Ive found Nicaraguan lodging to be less expensive compared to similar accommodations in Costa Rica. They just couldnt get enough of the place. Both countries have many similarities but both also have many differences. (1 kg), Onions Last Updated on December 5, 2022 by Kate Storm So, you're heading either to Costa Rica or Nicaragua! Nicaragua is definitely the cheaper place. Till then, thanks for your virtual tours! We are currently trying to rebook flights to somewhere else. This may sound sketchy so make sure youve coordinated this through your hotels or check reviews of the shuttle service. Technically, crime is lower in Nicaragua than in Costa Ricaespecially petty crime, which always has a tendency to show up in places where hoards of tourists congregate. Textiles and agriculture combined account for nearly 50% of Nicaragua's exports. Fill out the form below; I will reach out to you within 48 hours to schedule a free 15-minute call.
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