The sunny side of Nicaragua

Fresh meat! That is what we are every time we step off a bus, arrive by cab or wobble into town backpack strapped clearly marking our vulnerability. Although we have been learning along the way to always keep small denominations of currency and always get a third and fourth opinion, the matter of fact is, we are 'fresh off the boat' every town we hit. San Juan del Sur is no different and on this late Friday afternoon, everybody wants a piece of the meat. We settle for really basic lodging that night which will run us $20 for the 3 of us!!! Happy Days as Danny says!!! It is time to check out the scene to see what the next few days have in store for us.
The beach itself is very welcoming and the sand feels good under our bare feet again. I am glad that Tim gets to experience some side of the Pacific before he leaves and especially on this night when the sun is setting so beautifully! The crowd seems like a mixed bunch if I can explain it best would be: rasta/artsy/eco-concsious/surfer/older American $$$$/local Nica kind of a feel!
It becomes obvious again that what sets this country apart from its' neighbour is exactly what Costa Rica might have been at one time. More and more foriegners are slowly exploring their options to travel a bit more off the beaten path in Nicaragua where one can truly feel the culture, experience the people and be inspired by local art without any pressure to act like a tourist. The movement is evident with the influx of young entrepreneurs opening up shop with a concept that back home in Canada, the States or the UK could only be a pipe dream. Cafe's serving only local produce with an added English bookstore, a bakery which use's an ingredient other than white enriched flour and a Smoothie shack where one can check the board for the latest news in yoga classes seem to be the more popular choices for those looking for a little piece from home but still with a local flair and feel. What remains consistent however is the consientious effort to enhance the culture while supporting the people and preserving the environment.
For the remainder of the weekend the weather remains hot and sunny which only reminds Tim more of what he will be missing as his departure date approaches. We sadly say goodbye as he sets off on what is sure to be another long day of travel across the border but well worth the time spent together and the memories forever cherished. Bon Voyage Tim and see you at home:-)