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Ideal in tides both high and low, and offering both lefts and rights, the break should allow plenty of opportunity for the likes of five-time world champion Tom Curren (USA), eight-time world champion Layne Beachley (AUS), four-time world champion Juan Ashton (PUR), two-time world champion Heather Clark (RSA), Ross Williams (HAW), and Fabio Gouveia (BRA) to put on display the level of surfing that has established them as some of the finest talents the sport has ever seen.

“The waves at Colorado are one of the most sought after by the international surfers because of its perfection, consistency and warm water,” said Lucy Valenti, the Executive President of Gray Line Nicaragua, which is helping to organize the event. “The setting at Hacienda Iguana is perfect, the beach is practically virgin, the tropical forest surrounding it makes it exotic, and the accommodation infrastructure is first class. The local people enjoy surfing and know how to take care of the visiting surfers. Playa Colorado at Hacienda Iguana is an ideal place to hold the ISA World Championship.”

Located on the south end of the country, the wave is groomed daily by the country’s non-stop offshore winds, which are caused by the Lago de Nicaragua effect. Due to the lake’s large expanse of water, winds blow offshore on the Pacific side of the country more than 300 days out of the year. The waters are warm and the outside air temperature is even warmer.

The Masters features the top over-35 surfers in the world. Last year’s event in El Salvador brought together over 120 competitors from 21 countries, many of whom were former professional surfers and world champions.

Be sure to check in to www.isasurf.org for further updates about the event as they are released.

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The article describes Granada as an “ancient pastel-painted, colonial-era buildings with terracotta tile roofs along the north shore of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America”, adding that the city is home to approximately 1,000 expats, known as being a socially active group that enjoys cultural events, outdoor activities, and volunteer endeavors.

When asked if she would move back to the U.S. after nine years of living in Nicaragua, expat Janice Gallagher responds “I just laugh. I could never afford to have the lifestyle in the U.S. as I do here…nor the peace of mind”. She adds, “where else can you buy a beautiful head of organic lettuce for less than 50 cents or enjoy a cold beer for $1? No, I think I am staying put in Nicaragua a while longer”!

Historic homes in need of renovation are available in Nicaragua for less than $50,000, and $150,000 buys you a large, already-renovated and fully-furnished home complete with swimming pool.

The other top 5 towns listed were Santa Fe in Panama, Vilcabamba in Ecuador, Penang in Malaysia and Campeche in Mexico.

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The competition will run from July 14-22. Watch this space for more details!

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The new airstrip will open up this remote area, and for tourists the great news is that the tarpon fishing lodges and wildlife reserves of this pristine rain forest region will soon be much more easily reached with flights from Managua on La Costeña, the regional airline.

Read more in the Nicaragua Dispatch: http://www.nicaraguadispatch.com/breaking-news/greytown-airport-ready-for-takeoff/3411

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Day 2: We’ll pick you up at your hotel and take you back to the airport for your early morning flight to one of the Caribbean’s forgotten secret spots! When we say the Caribbean, we really mean the Corn Islands. Two upspoilt gems lying in azure waters 40 miles off the coast of Bluefields. The Old Caribbean lives here – turquoise waters, white sand, excellent fishing, some of the best coral reefs in the hemisphere, and an unhurried pace.  Upon arrival at the airstrip on Big Corn Island, a representative from your hotel, Casa Canada, will be there to pick you up to take you the short distance to your tropical paradise home away from home.

Day 3-4: The two Corn Islands, Big Corn and Little Corn are lush with exotic fruit trees, native palms and surrounded by pristine pink and white sand beaches. A haven for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th century, untold numbers of shipwrecks and treasures still lay scattered along the turquoise shores of  these tropical hideaways, creating a new haven for scuba divers and snorkeling aficionados.  Spend these days under the water, exploring the island in a rented golf cart (the best way to get around!), or simply relaxing by the pool or under a coconut palm!

Day 5: The time has come to swap one paradise for another. Casa Canada will take you back to the airstrip for your flight back to Managua where we will meet you for your transfer to the Pacific Coast. Punta Teonoste is an exclusive boutique property located on the southwestern coast of Nicaragua known as the Pacific Riviera. The spectacular beachfront setting is nestled amidst the quaint, authentic fishing village of El Astillero and Popoyo, Nicaragua’s premier surf break. You have the option here of having all meals included or not.

Day 6-7: Spend these days enjoying the beach. Punta Teonoste is a fantastic surfing destination, with a wonderful spa and yoga program. Pamper yourself!

Day 8: Transfer back to Managua Airport for your flight home.

*Prices reflect 2012 May-December green season rates and are subject to change, especially around the July/August summer season and local holidays. The price you are quoted by our sales representatives will be 100% accurate based on the exact time of your inquiry. Price is per person, double occupancy accommodation and includes: all taxes, domestic transportation, tours and hotels and credit card payment service fee. Price does not include international airfare or optional travel insurance.

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According to Rapacciolli, investments in the last five years allowed to increase the participation of wind, geothermal and hydropower up to 37 percent in 2011 from external and state financing.

For 2013, they expect to raise the proportion to 50 percent, which will allow reducing fuel oil consumption by 1.7 million barrels per year, said Rapacciolli.

With equipment supplied mainly by Venezuela and Cuban technical support, the country was able to install from 2007 a total of 290 megawatts (MW) in oil consuming units as an alternative to overcome the crisis as soon as possible, he stated.

Once this problem was solved the industry focused on the change of energy mix, which is part of the national human development, he said.

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Day 2-3: A stay at Jicaro Island Ecolodge could have an emphasis on relaxing, yoga, massages, reading a good book or just taking endless naps listening to the tranquil waters of Lake Nicaragua next to your casita. But if you are looking for an adventure, Jicaro has also many tours and activities to offer.  The “must do” tours during a stay on the island are kayaking around the Granada Isletas, hiking in the rainforest, the famous Puma trail or visiting the hot springs at the foot of the Mombacho Volcano located just a short boat ride across the lake.

Day 4: Take a boat back to the mainland where you’ll head to the coast for some beach time! Aqua Wellness Resort is situated in a lush tropical forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean — a secluded and peaceful natural setting ideal for a relaxing beach vacation, yoga, meditation and spa treatments that nourish the soul. Nestled on a private white sand beach along Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, almost hidden amongst the treetops, the resort is made up of private, secluded villas, constructed of sustainable hardwoods, and furnished by local artisans. The hand built villas blend modern chic with local materials.

Day 5-8: Spend these days indulging yourself with Aqua’s “Pure Wellness Program”, from your (included) daily 9:00 AM yoga class to various other treatments and classes. A variety of relaxing and stimulating massages, scrubs and treatments that make use of pure ingredients from the surrounding land and sea are offered. The top local surf breaks of Colorados and Manzanillo are just 15 minutes boat ride to the north and south, and the resort runs fishing, surfing, dolphin and whale-watching trips with pick up and drop off beachside. Other local activities include hiking, snorkeling, sea kayaking and horseback riding.

Day 9: Sufficiently chilled out, you’ll check out of Aqua Wellness Resort and they will take you to the colonial city of Granada, where you you’ll spend your last night at the upscale Plaza Colon, right on the main square of Granada, across from the cathedral.  Stroll the languid streets this evening and find yourself a romantic restaurant in which to reflect on your heavenly honeymoon!

Day 10:

Day 8: The time has come to leave Nicaragua. Transfer back to Managua Airport by private van for your flight home .

*Prices reflect 2012 May-December green season rates and are subject to change, especially around the July/August summer season and local holidays. The price you are quoted by our sales representatives will be 100% accurate based on the exact time of your inquiry. Price is per person, double occupancy accommodation and includes: all taxes, domestic transportation, tours and hotels and credit card payment service fee. Price does not include international airfare or optional travel insurance.

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Day 2:  Today we’ll show you around town with your Leon Walking Tour. You’ll explore the rich cultural and political history of one of Nicaragua’s oldest and most influential cities. Defined by its graceful Spanish colonial architecture and fascinating political history, you will soon discover why León is at once considered to be Nicaragua’s historical, cultural, educational and religious capital. Morning or afternoon tours are available, each lasting three hours.

Day 3:  Climbing to the top of the Cerro Negro is an impressive experience, and the climb is surprisingly easy. This active volcano, the youngest in the Western Hemisphere and one of the most accessible in Nicaragua (altitude 675 m.), is totally covered with black sand and rock. From the top, you will have an incredible view of the surrounding area and the Maribios volcanic chain, however the descent is probably the most fun. Once you have had your fill of the view from the top, descend the steep slope by foot, using the sandy volcanic material to control your speed.

Day 4: Check out of your hotel as we pick you up for your private transfer to Nicaragua’s premium beach town, San Juan del Sur, where you will stay at Pelican Eyes. This is a truly one-of-kind resort that offers a distinctive blend of gracious hospitality, luxurious accommodations, local charm and community commitment. The guest at Pelican Eyes will enjoy magnificent sweeping, ocean views from the three infinity pools reached by walking through lush tropical gardens. San Juan del Sur and the surrounding area are filled with adventure, culture and history…. or you can simply relax on the beach or by the pool. Surfing, sailing, fishing and horseback riding are all within easy access as well. Pelican Eyes also has an awesome spa, “Casa Tranquila” where you can sooth your aching bones and stresses from home away!

Day 5: Spend today just relaxing and enjoying the beach!

Day 6: Today it’s time for a classic Central American zip line canopy adventure!The canopy tour is located only five minutes from San Juan del Sur. The tour offers 2.5 kilometers of zip-line in a rural setting where nature prevails. Nature is abundant in the area, and you can see animals including monkeys, raccoons, birds, and other animals.

Day 7: Today is another day for relaxing and enjoying the beach, or taking part in any of the numerous activities available in this area!

Day 8: Time to check out of Pelican Eyes for the final part of your honeymoon. You will be driven to the city of Granada, where you’ll take a connecting boat to the island retreat of Jicaro Island Ecolodge in Lake Nicaragua.

Day 9: A stay at Jicaro Island Ecolodge could have an emphasis on relaxing, yoga, massages, reading a good book or just taking endless naps listening to the tranquil waters of Lake Nicaragua next to your casita. But if you are looking for an adventure, Jicaro has also many tours and activities to offer.  The “must do” tours during a stay on the island are kayaking around the Granada Isletas, hiking in the rainforest, the famous Puma trail or visiting the hot springs at the foot of the Mombacho Volcano located just a short boat ride across the lake.

Day 10: Tear yourself out of your hammock and transfer back to Managua Airport for your flight home.

*Prices reflect 2012 May-December green season rates and are subject to change, especially around the July/August summer season and local holidays. The price you are quoted by our sales representatives will be 100% accurate based on the exact time of your inquiry. Price is per person, double occupancy accommodation and includes: all taxes, domestic transportation, tours and hotels and credit card payment service fee. Price does not include international airfare or optional travel insurance.

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