Unfortunately Nicaragua still suffers from a bad reputation. During the heated Sandinista versus Contra revolution the US press was full of troubling stories about the country. The US was very involved in the disturbances with the result that the country somehow still casts a shadow across the memory of many North Americans.

But now, 30 years later, it’s time to move on.  A new Nicaragua has emerged; one that is economically flourishing, politically stable and increasingly attractive to both tourists and international investors. The kind of headlines that we are now hearing about Nicaragua are far more positive and are slowly driving out any negativity that remains.  Here are some of the recent positive headlines that are emerging about the country:

  • In 2010 a record-breaking 1 million tourist visitors came to Nicaragua, the majority from the US.  They came for the gorgeous white sand beaches, the oldest city in the Americas (Granada), a volcano you can ski down, the 10 largest lake in the world and the fantastic surf breaks.
  • In 2009 the government rolled out one of the most attractive and benefit laden retirement programs in Central America. Eligible retirees receive numerous tax benefits and exemptions.  And best of all, you only need to be 45 years of age to qualify.
  • In 2010 RevealRealEstate.com released a report indicating that asking prices for real estate in Nicaragua are significantly lower than for equivalent property in Panama, Belize and Costa Rica. The same organization also noted that the country has the lowest cost of living in the region.  Something that’s becoming increasingly important in these recessionary times.
  • Infrastructure improvements and road upgrades are being rolled out across the country.  San Juan del Sur, the main tourism town on the Pacific has a new pedestrian walkway, a refurbished main beach road and a brand new water-main.   The winding coastal road linking Nicaragua with Costa Rica is currently being paved and Granada’s central square and cathedral have both recently had a face-lift.

It really is time to see the new Nicaragua.