Get ready for Nicaragua
“A journey of a thousand miles
begins with a single step.”
—Lao-Tzi
ADVENTURE PACKET
1 POP’s Work In
NIcaragua
why we’re here
PoP Operations
PoP Local Staff
2 PRE-ADVENTURE
INFORMATION
everything you need to know
before you go
Passport and Visa Requirements
Health Awareness and Illness Prevention
Climate
Electrical Appliances
Dress and Attire
Important Phone Numbers
3 Country Specific
Information
the ins and outs of laos
Nacaragua Overview
About Panajachel
Language
Currency and Money
Tipping
Getting Around
Safety
4 Local Protocol
how to fake It like a local
Top Ten Words and Phrases
What to Expect
Photography
5 Your Tour
things you wont want to miss
Adventures and Activities
Food and Entertainment
6 Terms and
Conditions
the fine print
1 PoP’s work in Nicaragua
the reason we’re all here
PoP Nicaragua OPERATIONS
History
Pencils of Promise (PoP) is based in Matagalpa, Nicaragua and since late 2009 worked
in partnership with Seed of Learning (SOL) to successfully complete 14 build projects.
However, thanks to the lessons learned along the way, PoP is now spearheading education projects in Nicaragua all on its own!
This year Pencils of Promise increases its investment in the region by aiming to not only
finish 10 school projects in areas surrounding Matalgalpa proper, but will also hire and
mentor local staff to increase the cycle of learning and professional opportunities in the
region.
PoP nicaragua ON-site STAFF
noah marwil
Latin America Regional Director
SONIA DIAZ
Country Manager
ROBIN SMITH
Nicaragua Country Director
KAITLYN PHILLIPS
Fellow
2 PRE-ADVENTURE INFORMATION
everything you need to know before you go
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Please make sure your passport is up-to-date before departing and it has at least six
months validity left. As a US citizen, no pre-departure visa is necessary. However, you
will receive a visa upon arrival at the airport and will also need to pay $10 or a “tourist
card” which is valid for 30-90 days.
Health Awareness and Illness Prevention
There are no required inoculations needed to enter into Nicaragua, however the CDC
recommends Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Rabies.
Please check with your doctor, local health department, or a travel physician to ensure
you feel comfortable with the choices you make with regard to optional inoculations.
More Specific Health Information for Travelers to Nicaragua can be found at the Center
for Disease Control and Prevention website:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/nicaragua.htm
Medicines you may need
Health risks like malaria and yellow fever do present themselves in Matagalpa, however
malaria is very rare. The CDC recommends that you take a prescription antimalarial
drug, use insect repellent and/or sleep in a protected area.
Make sure you have enough of the prescription medicines you take every day to last
during your trip. Keep them in their original prescription bottles and always in your carryon luggage. Be sure to follow security guidelines if the medicines are liquids.
Medicine for traveler’s diarrhea, usually an over-the-counter Imodium is sufficient; however your doctor may recommend a prescription called Cipro for more severe cases.
Many medicines, even prescription medication can be bought at low cost over the counter at pharmacies in Nicaragua.
Food and Water
Diseases from food and water are the leading cause of illness in travelers. Follow these
tips for safe eating and drinking to help avoid an ailment:
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating.
If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel (with
at least 60% alcohol).
· Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles.
DO NOT DRINK tap water, and be careful with fountain drinks and
ice cubes.
· Do not eat food purchased from street vendors.
· Make sure meat is fully cooked.
Diseases from food and water often cause vomiting and diarrhea. Make sure to bring
diarrhea medicine with you so that you can treat mild cases yourself.
after you return home
If you are not feeling well, you should see your doctor and mention that you have recently
traveled to Central America.
Climate
Overall
The weather in Matagalpa is typically fairly moderate. The temperature will range
anywhere from the 80 to 90F during the days and drop down to 70 to 80F at night.
Make sure to bring and consistently apply sunscreen.
Seasons
APRIL—NOVEMBER:
Rainy season / Travel is difficult and sometimes dangerous.
DECEMBER—MARCH:
Driest and warmest days in Necaragua.
Electrical Appliances
Nicaraguan outlets handle the same voltage as the US. It is best to pack a three-prong
adapter as many outlets are only suited for two-prongs. Hardware stores are also accessible locally in case a convertor or adapter is needed once in Nicaragua.
Dress and Attire
Think comfy cute and remember layering is key. You need to dress for sunny and 80s
during the day while the evenings cool down and can be a bit chilly. You should bring
mostly warm weather clothes and breathable rain gear, as rain is unpredictable. It is
recommended not to wear any valuable jewelry or accessories as well as reduce
the amount of valuables on each person. Possible activities include hiking, swimming
and zip lining so pack accordingly.
While visiting PoP’s sites it is important to be respectful of local cultures and dress
appropriately and conservative (especially for female travelers).
There will be at least a couple nights where we will go out to experience Nicaragua
nightlife, casual going out clothes are suggested.
LUGGAGE
Don’t forget to check with the international luggage regulations for your particular airline.
Be prepared for weight requirements and other luggage restrictions.
RECOMMENDED GIFTS FOR STUDENTS
[ BUT NOT NECESSARY ]
Feel free to bring school supplies and/or hygiene materials for PoP students as numerous site-visits are on the itinerary!
Important Phone Numbers:
Nicaragua’s country code is +505
Your U.S. carrier may have an international coverage program. If you would like to use
your cell phone while in Nicaragua, call your provider and ask to enable international
roaming. This will allow you to make phone calls and check email while in Nicaragua –
please ask your provider for details as costs vary.
***
PoP Matagalpa Office: +505.2772.2185
Noah Cell Phone: +505.8415.1473
Robin Cell Phone: +505.8664.1848
Sonia Cell Phone: +505.8907.7205
Kaitlyn Cell Phone: +505.8620.228
Wendy Cell Phone: +1-516-967-2522 (Will be in US, but available to help)
Hotel: to come
Local Police Department: +505.2772.3870
When dialing locally, the +502 country code is not necessary
3 COUNTRY SPECIFIC INFORMATION
the ins and outs of nicaragua
ABOUT NICARAGUA
Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America and is often referred to as the land
of lakes and volcanoes. Its physical beauty is only paralleled by the 5,666,301 proud
and passionate people who inhabit the country. Unfortunately these impassioned Nicaraguans have endured a volatile history full of political unrest, civil war, and destructive
natural disasters. The civil conflict and infrastructure damage left Nicaragua in a weak
socio-economic state, as money during this era was concentrated in the military without
any sustaining efforts to improve human development.
Nicaragua was recently voted the safest country in Central America. It is now categorized as the second poorest country in the Americas after Haiti and its education sector
is suffering (World Bank). Nicaragua’s education statistics are well below average for
Latin American regional standards and the current expected years of schooling are lower
than the region’s average (HDR).
ABOUT matagalpa
Matagalpa is situated in the mountainous region of Nicaragua and about a two-hour bus
ride form Managua. The city of 109,100 inhabitants is centered in a base with majestic
highlands rising on all sides. It is the 5th largest city in the country and is the perfect mix
between a metropolis and small town life.
Matagalpa is best known for its coffee and cacao, temperate climate and beautiful
scenery.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Nicaragua is Spanish. You however will find a few English
speakers around town.
CURRENcy and money
Exchange Rate:
$1 USD = 23 NIO *approximate
The currency in Nicaragua is the Cordaba (NIO)
Taking out Money
You can withdraw cash at an ATM located inside the airport and there are also
multiple ATM’s in Matagalpa. US dollars are accepted in most restaurants and stores.
Most ATM’s accept Visa and Mastercard but please talk with the local PoP staff, as
they will direct you to the ones that are the best to use.
Please remember to notify your local bank that you will be traveling internationally so
they do not suspect suspicious transactions.
Importance of Carrying Cash:
Almost everything you buy in Nicaragua must be paid for in cash, however some hotels
and restaurants will also accept major credit cards.
TIPPING
It is suggested to leave 10% - 15% of the total amount.
GETTING AROUND
Shuttles
When you first arrive, you will travel by private shuttle from Managua to Matagalpa. The
driver along with a PoP staff member will be at the airport to happily greet you!
Walking
Walking is the main mode of transit for people living and working in Matagalpa. It is
typically very safe, however please use caution by not walking alone after 10pm at night.
Buses
Nicaragua’s eclectic, repurposed, painted school buses are the cheapest way to travel in
country. Public transportation via these buses is extensive and common. Typically, these
buses are safe, but tend to be crowded.
SAFETY
Matagalpa is a small and safe community, but like any other town, you must take precautions for your own safety. Tourists who do not take certain precautions may be targeted.
It is safe during the day, but one should never walk alone at night. Once night falls, it is
best to remain on the main streets.
When visiting more remote areas it is best to be aware of your surroundings. Be respectful of the other people and cultures you will encounter. Watch where you are walking and
do not touch or disturb any agricultural products. Always ask before taking photos!
4 CULTURAL SPECIFIC INFORMATION
how to fake it like a local
Key spanish Phrases:
Attached is a one-sheet with Spanish phrases for almost every travel situation.
Essential Words, Phrases and Cultural Customs
Words & Phrases
Dale pues
Basically it means, go ahead. You will hear this phrase
used all the time, at the end of a conversation, when
changing topics, etc.
Buenas
This is short for “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon) or
“Buenas noches” (good evening) and is used as a greeting.
When you enter a home, enter a store, etc. it is appropriate
to greet those inside with “buenas”.
Adios
Nicaraguans use this as a greeting and a farewell.
As you pass by people walking on the street you
will usually hear this.
Mucho gusto
You will be meeting so many locals that this phrase
“nice to meet you” will be used frequently.
Que onda
The Nicaraguan equivalent to “what’s up?”
No hay falla
This is a very Nicaraguan word and means “no worries”.
Chelle / Chella
The male and female form of a person who has a
light complexion and/or light hair. A lot of times they
refer to foreigners as chelle or chella.
Vos
Vos, means “you” and is to be used when talking
with a close friend.
Gallo pintoA staple food in Nicaragua consisting of rice and beans.
You will often hear Nicaraguans and Costa Ricans
argue over who “invented” this dish!
TuaniAnother slang word bound to impress- it means “cool”!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Cultural Background
Nicaragua is an amazing country filled with beautiful people and gorgeous landscapes.
Despite the beauty of it all the people are still trying to recover from years of civil unrest
on top of battling socioeconomic obstacles of extreme poverty, illiteracy and disease.
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One out of every five Nicaraguans live in extreme conditions of poverty and
approximately half the population lives beneath the poverty line (IMF)
The average Nicaraguan has 4.6 years of schooling and only 2.1 in extremely
poor rural areas (USAID)
In Nicaragua 50% of the kids that start 1st grade never make it to 5th grade.
It is our goal to make this percentage drop significantly (Empowerment
International)
32% of Nicaraguans are illiterate (Save the Children)
27% of all Nicaraguans suffer from undernourishment (World Hunger)
Children in Nicaragua are 44% more likely to die before the age of 5 than in the rest of Latin America (WHO)
About 26 of every 1,000 children will not make it to their fifth birthday (WHO)
Street Vendors & Beggars
Throughout Matagalpa, there are some street vendors and beggars (many of whom are
children). You should be aware that it is not uncommon for beggars to walk into restaurants demanding money or for kids to ask for it on the street. They can be pushy at
times, especially with foreigners. If you are not interested in making a purchase or giving money it is best to say “estoy bien” with conviction and simply walk away. Otherwise,
they will continue to try to engage you. Please know that it is okay to say no to them.
While it is a natural reaction to want to help the street children, it is best to focus
our time and energy into PoP projects that stimulate development and education.
PoP’s Commitment
PoP’s commitment to equality and justice is demonstrated through our rural reach. We
build our schools in more remote inaccessible areas in communities that face significant
barriers to educational access and achievement.
PHOTOGRAPHY
When taking pictures of people it is better to ask before shooting. Most often they
won’t have an issue with you taking the picture but its always best to error on the
side of respect.
5 YOUR TOUR
things you won’t want to miss
ADVENTURES & ACTIVITIES + FooD & ENTERTAINMENT
PoP will be setting up a unique and balanced itinerary. If you plan to stay after your
scheduled PoP adventure, our local staff can provide a list of activity and dining options.
A generation empowered
will empower the world.