Bridgetown , General info:
10/10

The coral island of Barbados colonised over 380

years ago is 20 by 14 miles across and is the

most easterly of the Windward Islands (50 miles

from St. Vincent). The wettest month is October

the driest is March and mean temperature is

85ºF(29ºC). English is spoken by the

quarter-million population.

Bridgetown , Different stuff:
9/10

Barbados boasts the purest water supply you will find anywhere. Rainwater is filtered naturally through natures own coral filter system, and eventually collected underground. You can drink water from the tap anywhere on the island.

Bridgetown , Don't miss:
8/10

The Holders Season is established as the premier cultural event in the Caribbean. Acclaimed nationally and internationally, the season is a celebration of opera, music and theatre. The production always plays to capacity houses and it's high artistic standard draws audiences from around the world.

Bridgetown , Food:
9/10

Bridgetown and Barbados truly offers a full array of culinary experiences, from the local fish fry at Oistins to breathtaking gourmet ocean front dining. From upscale restaurants to fast food eateries you will sample the local ingredients, delicacies, Bajan culture and obtain the true taste of the Caribbean.

Bridgetown , Hotels:
9/10

There is little, if any, accommodation in Bridgetown itself. Most visitors stay either on the small towns on the South coast or at one of the resorts near the west coast.

Bridgetown , Safety:
9/10

Crime rate is low like in all Caribbean area.

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.