Destination of the Week...

If you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, deserted beaches, an endless supply of lobster, jungle hikes, and colorful atmosphere, all at a cheap price, head to The Corn Islands, Nicaragua! Little Corn and Big Corn Islands are only nine miles apart, and are about 40 miles (64 km) off the Eastern coast of Nicaragua, which means you can find all the spoils of the Caribbean, at Central American prices. Supposedly, the islands were first inhabited by Indians, later menaced by European pirates, then in the 18^th century, British settlers from Jamaica took their African slaves with them and headed to The Corn Islands, and more recently other Indians, like the Miskitos, have been settling down, diversifying the population. Many of the islanders today are the descendants from those early settlers and speak English, even though Spanish is spoken on mainland Nicaragua. The islands are becoming more and more visited by the day, as travelers look for affordable island vacation options, but Big Corn (a.k.a. Great Corn), and especially Little Corn, are still “off the beaten path,” and the culture and charm prove it. Little Corn Island is a mere one square mile of jungle, rimmed by pristine beaches and a plethora of casitas (guest houses) to choose from. No cars, roads, luxuries, or bratty tourists. If you’re looking for more modern amenities, like roads, all day electricity, or perhaps a little shopping, jump in a panga (small speed boat) and coast over to Great Corn. Whether you visit the smaller or larger of the islands, you’ll wonder why you haven’t heard more about them. Getting there may take a little effort, but it’s well worth it. From Managua, you can catch a flight to Big Corn Island. Your baggage allowance will be limited on the small planes, but you really don’t need much more than some mosquito repellant and a bathing suite. Or, if you get yourself to El Bluff or Bluefields, you can catch a ferry and cruise the five hours to Big Corn Island. No matter how you get to The Corn Islands, you won’t want to leave!

Click here for information on getting to The Corn Islands!

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