Nicaragua

Cost of living

What a month costs

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest places to live in the Americas. Rent, produce and eating out are very affordable, though imported goods, cars and electronics carry steep markups.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Managua

1. Old Cathedral of ManaguaThe gutted Cathedral of Santiago, left standing as a shell after the 1972 earthquake, near the old centre.
2. Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate ConceptionThe modern domed cathedral by architect Ricardo Legorreta, its egg-crate roof unmistakable.
3. Puerto Salvador AllendeThe revamped lakefront boardwalk with restaurants, boat rides and evening crowds.
4. Tiscapa Lagoon Nature ReserveA crater lagoon above the city crowned by the black silhouette of Sandino.
5. Ruben Dario National TheatreNicaragua's grand lakeside theatre, the main stage for concerts and ballet.
6. National Palace of CultureThe old seat of government on the historic plaza, now home to the National Museum.
7. Plaza de la RevolucionThe historic central square flanked by the old cathedral and colonial-era buildings.
8. Huellas de AcahualincaMuseum protecting ancient human and animal footprints pressed into volcanic mud thousands of years ago.
9. Dennis Martinez National StadiumThe country's main baseball ground, named for its most famous big-league pitcher.
10. Trees of LifeThe towering metal tree sculptures lit up along the city's main avenues, an iconic if divisive sight.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. GranadaPostcard colonial city on Lake Nicaragua, under an hour away, all painted facades and horse carriages.
2. Laguna de ApoyoA clear volcanic crater lake about 40 minutes out, perfect for a swim and a lazy lakeside lunch.
3. Masaya VolcanoDrive right up to the rim and peer into a glowing lava lake, half an hour from the city.
4. LeonUniversity town with the biggest cathedral in Central America and volcano boarding nearby, about 90 minutes away.
5. San Juan del SurPacific surf town and beach hub roughly two and a half hours south, popular for weekend escapes.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. Cafe de las FloresHomegrown coffee brand roasting Nicaraguan beans, with tidy air-conditioned cafes around town.
2. Casa del CafeLong-running local chain, a reliable spot for good coffee, pastries and light meals.
3. Don PanPopular bakery and deli chain, handy for fresh bread, sandwiches and a quick coffee.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. Dona HaydeeBeloved for classic Nicaraguan home cooking, from gallo pinto to nacatamales.
2. La Casa de los NoguerasRefined dining set in a restored old house, a longtime special-occasion favourite.
3. Ola VerdeFarm-to-table and organic focus, with a leafy garden setting and healthy plates.
4. El MuelleWell-known seafood restaurant, a go-to for fresh fish and shrimp.
5. Los RanchosClassic Nicaraguan steakhouse serving grilled meats in a big ranch-style setting.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. Casa del CafeEasy morning stop for gallo pinto, eggs and a strong local coffee.
2. Cafe de las FloresFresh brew and pastries to start the day in cool comfort.
3. Dona HaydeeHearty traditional Nicaraguan breakfasts done the way locals like them.
4. Ola VerdeLighter, health-minded breakfasts with fresh juices and garden seating.
5. Don PanBakery breakfasts of fresh bread, empanadas and coffee on the go.