Fresno , General info:
9/10

Fresno is the sixth-largest city in California and the county seat of Fresno County, it is located in the centre of the expansive Central Valley, approximately 200 miles north of Los Angeles, and 170 miles south of the state capital, Sacramento.

Fresno , Cheap stuff:
9/10

Cheap B&B, hotels and wine.

Fresno , Different stuff:
10/10

Huntington Boulevard - Homes from the early 20th century line this boulevard in the heart of the historic Alta Vista Tract. The surrounding streets, Kerckhoff and Balch Avenues, have homes from the Arts and Crafts era which, like the downtown, are being renovated and brought back to their historic roots. During Christmas, the homes along the boulevard are adorned with lights and decorations. The nation's tallest living Christmas Tree, located at Huntington and 6th Street, is the highlight of the event.

Fresno , Don't miss:
10/10

Fresno Chaffee Zoo -can provide you fun, unique up-close experience that strengthens the bond between people and wildlife. It is home to approximately 125 species, with more always on the way.It is the only zoo in North America that currently houses Northland green geckos and Southern tent tortoises. Fresno Chaffee Zoo is also a home to 18 species that are part of the Species Survival Plan.

Fresno State Winery - produces a wide variety of wines from the most popular and well-known of wines such as Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to up-and-coming varieties like Syrah to lesser-known wines that are made in small batches.

Fresno , Food:
9/10

Restaurants in Fresno are among some of the best. With a wide variety of food to choose from, your only option is to enjoy your meal. Dine in an Italian restaurant or perhaps grab some Mexican food. The restaurants in Fresno offer a little bit of everything.

Fresno , Hotels:
9/10

Not a lot hotels to choose from, Piccadilly Inn Hotel is the best choise for big spenders.

Fresno , Safety:
10/10

Fresno crime rates are above national average.

Managua , General info:
10/10

Nicaragua on the whole is on the mend from hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. People love Americans! However, you must not display your wealth unless you want to hire a guard.

Nicaragua takes its name from Nicarao, chief of the indigenous tribe that lived around present-day Lake Nicaragua during the late 1400s and early 1500s.

Some Nicaraguans know English, but it is a good idea to know some Spanish before you go. You can get by showing what you want with your hands.

Managua , Cheap stuff:
10/10

Getting by on a shoestring is possible, only if you live the Nicaraguan lifestyle--beans, rice, fruit, etc. and native handicrafts. Transportation can be quite reasonable, depending on what you want, taxis, buses, mini-bus or Bluebird school type buses (not recommended).

When you deal with people at the Mercados (marketplaces), generally the price will be a bit high for merchandise. Just say "No" which usually gives you a second price and if you want the item, that is the time to buy it. Another "No" will get you a better price, yes, but then, the merchant gets cheated and is not a good reflection on the Americano.

Managua , Different stuff:
10/10

Nicaraguans are famous for their hammocks and are splendid.

Zip lines are also available in the canopy in Nicaragua; however, this author does not know where they are located.

Managua , Don't miss:
10/10

Be sure to go see The Peace Monument in former downtown Managua in the earthquake zone. Another must see is Granada for its Spanish Colonial Architecture and, also, see Masaya for volcano and handicrafts, such as hammocks.

Managua , Food:
10/10

If you want American, Chinese, or Native Nicaragua meals, and go to a restaurant, expect to pay about the same as in the United States. Otherwise, street vendors have plenty of tropical fruit and bocadillas (chucks of charcoaled grilled meat).

Managua , Hotels:
10/10

There are new hotels available in Managua, as it is a rapidly growing city, so expect to spend about the same amount as in Untied States. The Hotel Intercontinental is the hotel Howard Hughes stayed in the early 70's.

Generally, do not expect hot water to take a shower!

Managua , Safety:
10/10

Generally, it is a good idea to keep valuables well hidden, perhaps in a plastic bag. Displaying wealth of any kind is not recommended, such as, cameras, jewelry, purses, etc. This is generally true in most Central American countries.