What Life is Really Like in Nicaragua

Life Moves Differently Here

I’ve lived in Nicaragua my whole life, and one thing I can tell you is that time feels different here. Things move slower, but not in a lazy way. People are more present. They stop to talk, check in, share a drink or a story. That’s just part of the culture. It’s not rushed. It’s real.

Hospitality Isn’t Optional

In Nicaragua, hospitality isn’t something we turn on when guests show up. It’s built into daily life. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been offered a plate of food just for stopping by, even when there wasn’t much to spare. You show up, you get something to eat or drink. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’re there for. We give what we have, no questions asked.

Small Moments, Big Connection

I remember one afternoon driving home and spotting my neighbor walking down the road. I pulled over, told him to hop in. We ended up sitting on the porch, sharing a soda and a few laughs like it was planned. That’s the kind of place this is. People make time. You don’t need a reason to sit and talk. You just do.

The Way We Talk

Our slang says a lot about who we are. One of my favorite words is “tuanis.” You’ll hear it everywhere. It basically means “cool” or “really good,” but it has roots in a code system used back in 1912 during conflicts, when people had to disguise what they were saying. Letters were switched around to form new words. “Tuanis” stuck, and now it’s something that makes you smile when you hear it. It’s ours.

It’s About People, Not Convenience

Living here has taught me that life doesn’t need to be built around speed or convenience. It’s better when it’s built around people. Around community. Around showing up, even if all you have to offer is a cold soda and good conversation.

So if you ever visit, don’t be surprised if someone you’ve never met invites you in, hands you a plate of food, and makes you feel like you’ve known each other for years.

That’s just normal here. That’s Nicaragua.