Nicaragua is best known not for its landscape or cultural treasures, but for the Contra war, in which the people rose up in hope only to be derailed by US-orchestrated interference. Since then, widespread privatisation and deregulation have left much of the country unemployed or in a state of shock.

The good news is that throughout this period human rights have largely been respected and the country's battles are now confined to the political arena. Nicaragua is a fascinating destination for those travellers who have an awareness of history and enjoy getting to know the grass roots.

Facts

Full country name: Republic of Nicaragua
Area: 129,494 sq km
Population: 5.2 million
People: 69% mestizo, 17% European descent, 9% African descent, 5% indigenous peoples
Language: English, Spanish; Castilian
Religion: Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 16%
Government: republic
Head of State: President Enrique Bolaños

GDP: US$1.11 billion
GDP per capita: US$2,200
Inflation: 3.7%
Major Industries: Coffee, seafood, sugar, meat, bananas, food processing, chemicals, metal products, textiles, clothing, petroleum refining and distribution, beverages, footwear
Major Trading Partners: Canada, Japan, Germany, Venezuela, USA, the rest of Central America