Interesting items amount to colourful hammocks, leatherware and basketry. You will also find gold jewels, some paintings and hand-made pottery. Masaya market is one of the best renown in the country. Shops are open from Monday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm. They are also open on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm.
In Managua, you will find Italian, as well as Chinese, Spanish and French restaurants. The local cuisine is often eaten with tortillas (corn crisps) which replace forks. Galla pinto is a blend of fried rice and beans generally served with beef. Seafood is very widespread along the coasts. On the markets, you will find a lot of grilled corn as well as tajaditas (banana crisps). As for drinks, you will have fruit juice, imported beer or rum. Remember to pay an extra 10 % to the amount of the bill, when service is not included.
As you have to land in Managua, you should stay for a few days. The country's capital city is the most convenient starting point to visit the region of the lakes Managua and Nicaragua. For the rest of your holiday, several alternatives are available. If you enjoy water sports, go to the West coast for surfing and for the numerous beaches. From Managua, driving access to this region is easy. For those of you with more time, go to Mosquito Coast and in particular on the Islas del Maiz - some Caribbean islands ideal for a beach holiday. Do not forget that the North and the mountains of the country still have not been made secure, since the end of the civil war. It is recommended not to go.