Nicaragua is poised to blossom as a tourist destination, with Pacific and Caribbean beaches, rugged and remote mountains, and the only fresh water lake in the world containing sharks. The country also holds political renown: Free and fair elections in 1990, 1996 and 2001 removed the Sandinista (Marxist) government from power.
Freedom has not come easy to the people. Hurricane Mitch in 1998 devastated the country and the economy and, in 1972, the capital city of Managua, home to more than 25 percent of the population, was left without a center by an earthquake. Nicaragua is still one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere.
The population is 70 percent mestizo (mixed Indian and European blood), 17 percent European descent, about 10 percent African descent, and a few percent Indian. The official language is Spanish.
Nicaragua weather is influence by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season is December-May, with more frequent rain the remainder of the year. Conditions may be parched and dusty in May, as the dry season draws to a close.
The communications infrastructure is improving, with fiber-optic lines connecting most of the country. International Direct Dialing is available.
Agriculture forms the backbone of Nicaragua's economy, with chemicals, metals, petroleum refining and clothing industries also contributing.
Driving in Nicaragua is difficult due to poor road conditions. Vehicles are driven on the right. The communications infrastructure is modern, but coverage is poor in rural areas.
Gangs are active in Managua and other cities. These groups present a threat both to property and people, especially to a foreigner traveling alone.
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