Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the best fishing? 
   There are fish to be caught year round but certain species are more prevalent during certain months of the year. Generally speaking, the fishing season extends from January through August. This also coincides with the dryer months. Also during the months of September and October the trade winds subside and offer spectacular bonefishing. May is a particularly hot month for offshore species.

What is the weather like? 
   Situated in the tropics means that the weather is warm and humid. During most of the year the highs will approach 90 degrees with nighttime lows around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However a consistent trade wind keeps things comfortable. However, the sun is intense and sun screen with an SPF of at least 30 is highly recommended. The dry season generally runs from late December to the end of May. June, July, and August are also pretty dry months. The peak of the rainy season is October and November. The weather is very unpredictable and can change completely in a matter of minutes.

Can you drink the water? 
   The Corn Island have unpolluted natural aquifers that produce well water for the inhabitants and guests. The water is safe to drink but if you think your stomach might have problems with the water it is better off to stick to bottled water.

Do you have malaria on the islands? 
   A case of malaria on the Corn Islands is not too uncommon. However the strain of malaria is not the seriously life threatening strain found in the Amazon and in Africa. Malaria cases here are easily dealt with Chloroquin. If you are traveling extensively through the region you might want to take a malaria preventive, which is simply a lower dosage of Chloroquin. Your doctor can give you more information on this. 

Are the bugs bad? 
   The bugs are generally not bad with the wind keeping most insects at bay. However during times with little wind the bugs can be annoying. It is advised to bring insect repellent with a healthy does of DEET.

What about the nightlife and shopping? 
   The nightlife on the Corn Islands is not like Cancun, but there are a handful of discos and bars that offer a taste of Corn Islands culture and nightlife. Shopping is limited to small shops spread out over the islands.

How does money work on the island? 
   The national currency of Nicaragua is the Cordoba and 17.5 Cordobas is roughly 1 US dollar. However US dollars are accepted everywhere, but they must not have any small tears or ink marking. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express can be used at several hotels and restaurants.  Travelers Checks are a little more difficult to cash, but I believe that the bank has just started to accept them.

Is it safe? 
   The people of the Corn Islands (and Nicaragua) are friendly and welcoming people. However, every once in a while there has been a tourist robbing incident. But it is rare. The best advice is to use common sense. Do not walk around with expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics. Place valuables in the safes provided by hotels. If the map indicates that a certain section of beach is unadvised to the tourists, then simply keep away from these small areas. There is plenty of open white sandy beach to relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun.

What happens if there is an accident or someone gets sick, what medical facilities are available? 
   There is a hospital on Big Corn Island and they can take care of most accidents and minor illnesses. In extreme circumstances, you might have to fly to Managua to get the medical care that is needed.

Why go to Nicaragua?  Isn't the country ravaged from civil unrest and a bloody revolution? 
   While it is true, Nicaragua is less than two decades removed from a violent revolution led by the Sandinista rebels. However, little of the political struggle affected the Corn Islands. Today Nicaragua is a safe country to visit.

Can I stay forever? 
   Normal tourists visas are stamped for 90 days and can be extended for another 90 days without leaving the country. After the additional 90 days one must leave the country and return and will be granted another 90 tourist visa.