OH MY OMETEPE

Journal Entry
March 22, 2006
Santo Domingo, Ometepe Island, Nicaragua


Unfortunately we only have a short 2 night stay here on the muy bonita Isla de Ometepe. Even just one more night would be nice, although I have no doubt that something more like a week would be easily accomplished. The hotel here is my hands down favourite and I doubt any other ahead will overtake it. It's very aptly named Villas Paraiso and it's right on the beach in the small town of Santo Domingo. The people here are wonderful. I can honestly say that the people of Guatemala and here in Nicaragua are my favourite. They are all so soft spoken (easy to understand which is a bonus), so kind and take a genuine interest in you.


Ometepe's finest in the gardens of Villas Paraiso

This accomodation is an island paradise. The gardens are immaculate and our rooms equally so, decked out complete with patio furniture and hammocks. The breeze is ever present and the sound of the waves crashing into shore creates a constant soundtrack of relaxation. It's the perfect place for relaxation and adventure to mix. The island is home to two massive volcanos, Conception on the north end and Madera on the south. Both are good for climbing though neither is a small task to hike. On top of those hikes, there are a plethora of other activities for nature lovers, including jungle walks and horseback riding...or you could always just lounge on the beach.


sunrise over Ometepe Island on the moring of our jungle walk

This morning a few of us awoke at the crack of dawn for a walk through the virgin jungle as all the animals awoke to the day. I was satisfied within minutes as we instanly saw about 10-15 monkeys swinging through the trees, and different kinds too! We saw plenty of birds and beautiful flora as well, but of course nothing made me happier than the monkeys.

After our walk we had a lovely breakfast (the hotel restaurant is great) and I read my book for a while before lunch and our very pleassant afternoon horseback ride through town. We took the horses to "Ojo de Agua" (Eye of Water) for a refreshing afternoon dip. "Ojo de Agua" is this beautiful, natural swimming hole in the middle of the jungle with cool, fresh, water and a rope swing. After our cooldown, we hopped back on the horses and made our way back to the hotel along the beach. Another life dream accomplished, horseback riding along the beach...gorgeous! It was a beautiful ride and I'm very glad that I got the opportunity to do some riding on this trip.


riding "deche" on the beaches of Ometepe

Tomorrow we leave this beautiful island far too soon and head for our final border into Costa Rica. Just a few more days with the tour before I commence the final leg of my trip. I plan to take those 3 weeks to relax on the beach, work on my tan and see if I can't get my ass up on a surfboard.