
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL ADVISORY - Nicaragua
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Nicaragua - Caution
 December 20, 1991

Summary:  The Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens
exercise caution when traveling in Nicaragua.  Occasional flare-ups
of armed violence continue in Managua and to a greater extent in the
northern parts of the country.  Caution is advised during periods of
unrest.  Incidents involving armed bandits operating in the
countryside have increased.  Travel by road between Nicaragua and
Honduras, even on main roads, is uncertain and potentially
dangerous.  Due to land mines in certain rural areas, it can be
hazardous to venture off main roads.  Persons traveling outside
Managua should contact local authorities prior to travel to check
for the presence of mines or for occurrences of violence.  Travel
outside Managua after dark, even on the Pan American Highway, should
be avoided.  End Summary.

Crime is on the increase in Nicaragua and efforts should be made to
protect money and passports.  Extra care is required when using
public transportation as many thefts occur on crowded buses.

Border crossings should only be made at the entry points at Las
Manos, El Espino and Guasaule on the border with Honduras, and at
Penas Blancas on the Costa Rican Border.  Due to the conditions in
El Salvador, the Department of State discourages U.S. citizens from
crossing the Gulf of Fonseca by ferry between Potosi, Nicaragua and
La Union, El Salvador.

Visitors to Nicaragua are encouraged to bring sufficient cash or
traveler's checks to cover their expenses.  Most hotels and
restaurants do not accept either credit cards or traveler's checks,
but traveler's checks can be exchanged for the local currency at
authorized exchange facilities (Casas de Cambio).  U.S. dollars are
not always available.  The three largest hotels in Managua exchange
currency and accept payment by certain credit cards or traveler's
checks.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to seek the latest travel information
and register with the Consular Section of the American Embassy
located at kilometer 4-1/2, Carretera Sur, Managua, Telephone
666-010.

