Nicaragua is a country with rich cultural traditions which are beautiful, unique and fascinating for the visitor. This tropical country has a rustic, authentic culture and an age-old tradition of unique handmade crafts and folk art. Nicaragua is also home to two of the oldest settlements in the Western Hemisphere: the Spanish colonial cities of León and Granada. Best of all, the Nicaraguan people are among the kindest and warmest people in the world. This is a fascinating escape from the high pressure, high-tech worries of the modern world: a journey into a more personal, simpler time. This trip includes special visits to experience the impressive and heartwarming festival of La Purisima in December. La Purisima celebrates the Virgin Mary's conception of Jesus Christ with a unique celebration found only in Nicaragua. Believers build altars made with images of the Virgin Mary wrapped in lights, palm leaves and flowers.

Program includes:

• All ground transportation in private car/bus with A/C
• 1 night lodging at Hotel Metrocentro Intercontinental***** in Managua (standard)
• 2 nights lodging at Hotel Austria in León** (standard)
• 3 nights lodging at Hotel Alhambra** in Granada (standard)
  - 2 nights lodging at Hotel El Convento in León*** (optional)
  - 3 nights lodging at Hotel Colonial in Granada*** (optional)
  - 3 nights lodging at Montelimar Beach Resort***** with all meals (optional)
• Full time assistance of a bilingual guide
• Assistance of specialized expert guides on days 2,3 and 6
• All breakfasts
• Tour of Masaya artisans market
• Visit to artisan's workshops of the highland villages of central Pacific
• Private boat tour of Las Isletas
• Walking tour of colonial León
• Walking tour of colonial Granada
• Visit to rural village of San Jacinto
• Guided observation of the unique La Purisima festival in León
• Hotel taxes