If you're traveling to Nicaragua, there are 2 places that you are likely to be on your itinerary: Granada and León. In Nicaragua, there's a fairly civil dispute between the 2 cities and which one represents the country more. Granada is a little bit like the polished ruby of the two: people have poured in money to restore and paint buildings and with it's relative proximity to Costa Rica, there is more of an infrastructure geared towards tourism. Leon, on the other hand, is a little rougher around the edges and is clearly a place that shows its age. Of course, Central America being what it is, the two cities are politically split as well. Anyone walking around León can easily see that it clearly has more of a left-leaning political alliance than the much more conservative Granada.
As you can tell by the title, we are clearly siding with León for a tourist destination (sorry Granada!). Sure, it lacks a bit of the luster that Granada has but, to be honest, we like that rough-around-the-edges look. It also doesn't hurt that León is also surrounded by a spectacular volcano range and has a bevvy of university aged kids who keep this historic town looking forward.
That's what I call a sweet ride.
Colorful, fading building
A school bus waiting for passengers.
A mural of Sandino. His name is now a part of the socialist party's name (FSLN), led by Daniel Ortega, whose members are called Sandanistas.
Sunset at the cathedral.
Multiple layers of beautiful, exposed building
We're silly and adventurous, computer geeks and yoga peeps.
September 11, 2010
Linda
September 11, 2010
Earl
Where did you take that photo of the cathedral and volcano from? I wish I had discovered that spot, wherever it is!
December 07, 2010
Kyle
September 12, 2010
Ayngelina
http://baconismagic.ca/nicaragua/a-tale-of-two-cities-granada-vs-leon/
September 14, 2010
leon
September 15, 2010
Audrey
September 16, 2010
Romantic bed and breakfasts
The beaches of Poneloya and Las Penitas are excellent places for sun and beach activities in town famous for surfing and other activities.
September 16, 2010
Shannon OD
October 12, 2010
michael hodson
December 04, 2010
Mark
Thanks for sharing.
December 07, 2010
Kyle