Granada: Budget Travel Guide, Granada, Nicaragua

The oldest colonial settlement in Nicaragua, this city was founded by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba in 1524, swiftly followed by Leon Viejo in the same year. The city boasts a rich colonial heritage as evidenced by the exquisite architecture still present to this day. Its network of streets and plazas follows the archetypal block layout as seen over and over again, replicated in every colonial city. One of the most iconic buildings in the city is La Catedral de Granada, a neoclassical masterpiece featuring a mustard yellow façade and white column design. This yellow-hued building immediately brings to mind other Moorish buildings in southern Spain. Granada was named after the city in Spain to celebrate the defeat of the last bastion of Islamic forces in southern Spain, completing the ‘reconquista.’

Granada perches on the shorefront of Lake Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America. Gazing out from the shores, it’s easy to mistake this humongous lake for the sea.

We were surprised to find out that there’s a thriving expat community in Granada. Personally, it would be too hot for me to live comfortably.

Hostal Azul - this hostel has a shared kitchen, pool and breakfast included in the price. We found that there was a social atmosphere without it being too noisy after 10pm. This hostel is only 2 minutes walk away from the main plaza, and is ideal for those that prefer to be in the centre with an ample choice of restaurants and cafes nearby. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).