This is Mother's day week-end in Nicaland. If you are lucky enough to live here, you might be on your second Mother's Day this month. Twice is nice.
Mother's Day is a very big deal here, it is an official country wide holiday. Banks, schools and the government are closed today (always a blessing for the government not to be in session). Many shops close or are open less hours. Check in advance.
Grocery store shelves can be empty by Sunday, stock up in advance.
Nicas celebrate with family. They travel to their home towns. Don't try to travel just before, during or right after holidays. Even taxis. We saw a taxi this morning with ten people in it, not counting the driver. Many people from the country will stay a few extra days to shop. Things won't get back to normal until Tuesday or Wednesday.
Many people, like pickpockets, will also flock into the towns, be extra vigilant.
If you are lucky enough to get invited to a family gathering, it is a real privilege, and it will be fun. Nicas know how to celebrate. Places like the beaches will be very crowded, this is a good time to avoid them. Don't go without prearranged accommodations.
If you are coming to Nicaragua, check on the holidays before you get here. Lonely Planet and other guidebooks usually list them. Be prepared and then enjoy. Everyone has been wishing me a Happy Mother's Day and telling me how important Mothers are. It is nice. Happy Mother's Day.
Mother's Day is a very big deal here, it is an official country wide holiday. Banks, schools and the government are closed today (always a blessing for the government not to be in session). Many shops close or are open less hours. Check in advance.
Grocery store shelves can be empty by Sunday, stock up in advance.
Nicas celebrate with family. They travel to their home towns. Don't try to travel just before, during or right after holidays. Even taxis. We saw a taxi this morning with ten people in it, not counting the driver. Many people from the country will stay a few extra days to shop. Things won't get back to normal until Tuesday or Wednesday.
Many people, like pickpockets, will also flock into the towns, be extra vigilant.
If you are lucky enough to get invited to a family gathering, it is a real privilege, and it will be fun. Nicas know how to celebrate. Places like the beaches will be very crowded, this is a good time to avoid them. Don't go without prearranged accommodations.
If you are coming to Nicaragua, check on the holidays before you get here. Lonely Planet and other guidebooks usually list them. Be prepared and then enjoy. Everyone has been wishing me a Happy Mother's Day and telling me how important Mothers are. It is nice. Happy Mother's Day.
