The Flurry of Entering Nicaragua

It wasn't easy figuring out transportation options to the border as the best option was full for three weeks! Finally we decided to spend a bit more and save some time by booking a shuttle. The next morning as we climbed into the shuttle we struggled with disappointment as this was the first day in 10 the sun was actually shining. We wanted to zip line in Monteverde just not in the pouring rain, but now it was too late. When we left Panama we felt like we truly enjoyed and experienced the country. This time we felt let down by Costa Rica, the weather and high costs brought on by increasing tourism were frustrating. Nevertheless, we reminded ourselves of the good times and good people we had met, as well as the fact that Costa Rica is somewhere we can visit again someday. After a stop along the way to see some macaws, we renewed our excitement to move on and meet up with our Swiss friends, Michael and Michelle in Granada. 

The border on the Costa Rican side was smooth and simple, however entering Nicaragua we fumbled about for what seemed like an hour. With no signs posted as to where and who to pay and constantly trying to avoid the people coming up and trying to sell you customs papers which we knew were free left us a bit frazzled. Finally we paid our fees and found out where the bus stop was. Since there was no food around we bought a large cacao chocolate bar to share for lunch, sadly it was dried out but we nawed on it anyways. We thought the drivers were wild in the souther country's but so far, Nicaraguans take the cake. We sat back and laughed one time when our driver pulled out and passed two large semi trucks at the same time on a busy narrow two lane highway. Every 5 minutes we pulled over for more people to climb aboard through the front and back door, packing the narrow school bus walk way. At the same time others would crowd on yelling above the noise to sell their food products, jumping off at the next stop. Once we were finally released from the crowded noisy bus, we ate a quick bite and jumped in a taxi which took us to Granada. Travis and the driver got in an argument over the price which caused a spike in my heart rate and a dramatic spike in Travis's adrenaline/anger as for the first time on our trip we really felt like someone was trying to rip us off. In the end, Travis gave him what we thought was fair and we quickly ducked into our hostel. It was so wonderful to see our friends again. We enjoyed wandering around Granada's town square that night with them, then crashed hard after our busy day of travel.