it's OFTEN TOUTED AS THE "NEW COSTA RICA"... 

BUT Nicaragua is so much more than an imitation.

For one, it's cheaper, safer and less developed than Costa Rica (all good things for the budget traveler). But more importantly, Nicaragua is a unique natural playground with a vibrant culture, rising cuisine scene and a landscape all its own. 

Intrepid adventure-seekers have secretly been flocking to Latin America's poorest country to surf San Juan del Sur, "snowboard" down an active volcano and hike through mystical cloud forests for years. But Nicaragua has more than enchanting Caribbean islands and a mellow surf community to offer visitors. Quaint colonial (albeit bullet-holed) towns, rowdy folk fiestas and sweeping volcano views have helped this destination overcome the stigma of it's war-torn past to become a rising star on the ecotourism circuit.

Not yet Westernized by ex-pats and pop-culture, the people of Nicaragua are still adjusting to the influx of tourism -- which is a good thing because it means you can still find cheap eats for under $4, great thrift shops, very affordable tours and volcano hikes, and the lowest price of transportation in all of Central America.

Pack your bags, this one's going to be good.

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