Arriving in Nicaragua was a rollercoaster of emotions. As our plane descended into the bustling city lights of Managua on a balmy March night, my nerves were on edge. Despite my FitBit showing a sky-high heart rate of 104, I tried to convince myself I wasn’t anxious—though clearly, I was.
Choosing Nicaragua:
Nicaragua wasn’t the typical vacation choice back home in Houston. Instead of the usual resorts or rentals, I craved adventure with a touch of beach bliss. Plus, it fit my budget perfectly. But as excited as I was about volcano boarding and exploring, stories of crime and harassment in Nicaragua made me second-guess my decision.
Preparation and Overcoming Apprehension
Determined to make the most of my trip, I armed myself with knowledge and sought advice from fellow travelers. Despite assurances, landing in Managua stirred up a fresh wave of panic. With a racing heart and sweaty palms, I navigated the airport, anxiously awaiting my pre-arranged hotel pickup.
Navigating the Arrival:
After a nerve-wracking wait, a kind stranger confirmed my pickup mishap and reassured me. Relieved, I followed a somewhat unconventional taxi to my hotel, my mind racing with unlikely scenarios of robbery or worse.
Settling In:
To my relief, the hotel matched its online reviews—clean, safe, and equipped with working WiFi. Finally settling into my room, I let out a sigh of relief. Exhausted from the adrenaline rush, I secured my door and finally managed some much-needed sleep.
Morning Comes:
Waking up to the Nicaraguan sun, I realized my fears had been exaggerated. The local charm and friendly faces quickly eased my apprehensions. Even the little lizards scurrying about seemed to smile—a stark contrast to my anxious arrival.
Conclusion:
My journey to Nicaragua was more than just a vacation; it was a lesson in overcoming fear and embracing the unknown. While the initial moments were daunting, pushing through the anxiety led to unforgettable experiences and newfound confidence in exploring the world beyond my comfort zone.
