When I went to visit Nicaragua for the first time, I was little. It was awesome while I was there. I went to Santa Rosa del Peñón where I stayed at my cousin’s house.  I visited a waterfall, and the view was gorgeous, and I had the opportunity to swim in it which I found fun.  

    I also went to visit El Madroño Malpasillo Leon, a place that’s not really found easily on a map. I went to meet my other relatives who I stayed with as well and I was able to see their farms and meet the animals. I got to see them every day and feed them. Overall, I loved it, and I would love to visit again. 

    Before I was born, my mom came to the United States by herself because she wanted to start a better future.  My dad was already waiting there so he and my mom could start a new life together.  

 Nicaragua’s origins 

    According to website for www.britannica.com, Nicaragua’s name is derived from Nicarao, chief of the indigenous people living around present-day Lake Nicaragua during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Nicaragua has a unique history in that it was the only country in Latin America to be colonized by both the Spanish and the British. <https://www.britannica.com/place/Nicaragua > 

 What was the cause of the move? 

   In most cases, people who decide to move out of their country typically look to pursue a better living style, better education system, more job opportunities, and a good health system. 

   Junior Angeles Corea said that her parents had to leave due to the economy in Nicaragua because it was bad during their time. 

   “My mom ran away from a civil war in Nicaragua and my dad ran away from Communism in Cuba,” said English teacher Mr. Jimenez. 

 Favorite meal? 

    Nicaragua is known for the wonderful variety of its cuisine which originated from Latin American, indigenous native American, Creole, and Spanish cuisines.  

   Algebra 2 teacher Mr. Brborich said that his favorite Nicaraguan meal would have to be carne asada (roasted or grilled meat). 

   Sophomore Brianna Zelaya said, “If I were to be in a zombie apocalypse and be given a choice to have my last meal, it would have to be my favorite which is gallo pinto (rice with beans) with queso (cheese) or crema (cream).” 

 What do you miss?  

  Many students from Nicaraguan families miss things about their mother country.  “Nicaragua is incredibly beautiful,” said sophomore Henry Mayorga. “The culture is fantastic. For example, in Diriamba every January there is an event called El Güegüense ,and it is a celebration where 5 cities go to follow their respective saints to the iglesia (church) and their main saint is San Sebastian. If you ever get the chance to experience it, you will see that it is fire.” 

    Sophomore Pablo Hernandez, who was born in Nicaragua, but came to the United States at an early age, misses hanging out and having fun in his country. 

   Freshman Elizabeth Delgadillo said, “It’s fun and very hot, but I very much like being with my family on their farm.” 

 Geography and Population 

   According to the website for www.worldatlas.com, Nicaragua is bounded by Honduras to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, Costa Rica to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.< Nicaragua Maps & Facts – World Atlas > 

    According to the website for www.worldometers, the current population of Nicaragua as of Friday, January 27, 2023, is 6,826,667.  Nicaragua’s population is made up mostly of mestizos (People of mixed European and indigenous ancestry). The national capital is Managua, which is also the country’s largest city and home to about one-sixth of the population. 

“Nicaragua’s festivals are one of its unique and joyful events. Their memorable celebrations represent the dynamic history, longstanding traditions, and beautiful culture of a strong, resilient, and friendly country. Regardless of when you visit this nation.” 

Source: <https://pacayalodge.com/nicaraguas-lively-festivals/>