Monkey Island to Santiago Volcano

Granada kind of reminds me of the French Quarter, an old haunt of mine in New Orleans.  Narrow streets, where the buildings flow into each other, so you can't tell where one begins and another ends, old cathedrals looming over benches with people sleeping on them or hanging out in doorways, even glass glued to the tops of walls to keep people from climbing over.  Then again, New Orleans doesn't have nearly as many stray horses.




Hanging out with Manchito on Monkey Island

The day started with a tour of the area, including a boat ride through the islets of Lake Nicaragua.  Then a quick lunch before we headed off to the Masaya Mercado.

Masaya was in full effect.  Located north of Granada, the town is well known for its market.  It is currently, however, in full swing for a month-long fiesta celebrating the combined faiths of the indigenous populous.  People packed the streets as bands played traditional songs, performers danced in costume and  all had a good time.  The highlight for me - the guy in the baby outfit pretending he couldn't hit the pinata.

The day ended with a tour of Masaya Volcano.  From the top is a magnificent view from Managua to Granada, as well as a look down the throat of an active volcano, spewing forth sulfurous smoke.  The volcano tour also included a spelunking trip down into a traditional ceremonial cave where the sacrifices were chosen to appease the angry gods of the volcanos.  The gods were, thankfully, quiet tonight - we all made it out okay.



Sunset over Santiago Volcano in Masaya