Some Positive Observations about Nicaragua

by Guest Blogger Marlo Van Klompenburg

When being interviewed last year about her Nicaragua experience, I remember Kathy Groenenboom saying that people just seem to be more happy and content in Nicaragua. I agree with her observation. I wonder if their close relationship to nature explains some of their happiness. The year-round warm climate allows the building architecture to be integrated with nature. In most homes and work areas windows are open, ambient breezes touch our bodies, natural daylight enters the spaces, and the sounds of nature impact our ears. As we traveled to Masaya today in a bus, the windows were open and we experienced the same sensations.

Transportation in Nicaragua can be very low cost. We made the 25-kilometer trip to Masaya today for $1.00. (That's $.50 per person). Admittedly it was on a vintage school-bus that had seen its best days. As we waited 20 minutes to leave the terminal, many local vendors carried their food on-board and sold their products much like concessionaires at a ball game. Shortly after departure, we needed to stop while water was added to the radiator from a large plastic Pepsi bottle. 

Besides the driver there is always a driver's helper who stands at the front of the bus. One of his jobs is to collect the fares while the bus is in transit. Also, he helps passengers quickly board the bus at the frequent stops it makes and announces our destination. The announcements are always done in a sing-song manner. I grew up on a farm and pigs were called by yelling "Sooo-eeee, Sooo-eeee, Sooo-eeee." In a similar manner the driver's helper calls out "Granada, Granada, Granada." It really was a rather entertaining experience.

Another thing I have noticed is the musical energy in this country. As we rode the bus today the radio was loud. As we walked to the Granada’s Central Park this morning we heard music exploding from several businesses and homes. We heard a four-person combo in the park energetically producing the heart-beat of Nicaraguan music. Always the music makes me want to walk just a little faster, tap my toe just a little harder, or smile just a little easier.