Nicaragua is an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. The country offers a unique blend of tropical beaches, colonial cities, and vibrant culture that is difficult to find anywhere else. Nicaragua has a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those who want to stretch their budget further. In this post, we’ll explore the best places to visit, the state of the internet and the average cost of living in Nicaragua for those looking to work remotely in this beautiful country.
Best Places to Visit:
Granada:
Pros:
- Beautiful colonial architecture and street life
- A vibrant tourism industry with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars
- A central location with easy access to other parts of Nicaragua
Cons:
- Crowded during the high tourist season
- Limited internet access in some areas
San Juan del Sur:
Pros:
- Beautiful beaches and surf spots
- A laid-back atmosphere
- A thriving tourism industry with plenty of activities and excursions.
Cons:
- Limited internet access in rural areas
- Crowded during the high tourist season
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Nicaragua
León:
Pros:
- A vibrant cultural heritage with beautiful colonial architecture and street art
- A thriving tourism industry with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars
- A central location with easy access to other parts of Nicaragua
Cons:
- Limited internet access in some areas
- Crowded during the high tourist season
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Nicaragua
When choosing a location in Nicaragua, remote workers should consider their needs and preferences, including internet access, cost of living, and proximity to tourist attractions. Each area offers unique advantages and challenges, so it’s essential to research and choose the location that best suits your needs.
State of the Internet:
Nicaragua’s internet infrastructure is improving, but it is still not on par with developed countries. In larger cities, such as Managua, the internet is reliable, but it can be slow and spotty in more rural areas. That being said, there are plenty of coffee shops and coworking spaces with fast, reliable Wi-Fi where remote workers can get work done.
Mobile data is cheap and works well in a pinch. Find out how to get a SIM card in Nicaragua here.
Cost of Living:
Accommodation:
A basic room in a hostel or Airbnb starts at around $10 per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost upwards of $50 per night.
Note: we found Booking.com has the most options for accommodation in Nicaragua. The AirBnb’s were limited.
Food:
Nicaragua’s food cost is relatively low, with a meal in a local restaurant costing between $3 and $ 7. Groceries can be purchased for much less.
Activities:
Hiking, surfing, and exploring the local culture are all affordable activities in Nicaragua, with many tours and excursions costing less than $50.
Language and Culture:
The official language in Nicaragua is Spanish, but many indigenous languages are spoken in rural areas. English is not widely spoken outside of tourist centres. Hence, it’s helpful for remote workers to have a basic understanding of Spanish to navigate daily life in the country better.
Nicaragua is a culturally rich country with a deep history that can be seen in its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and traditional festivals and dances. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easy for remote workers to feel welcomed and integrated into the community. Nicaragua is also home to a thriving artistic community, with many local artists and craftspeople selling their wares at markets and festivals.
In conclusion, Nicaragua offers remote workers a unique blend of tropical beauty, colonial charm, and affordability. With a low cost of living and a wealth of exciting activities, Nicaragua is the perfect place to live and work remotely. While the internet may need improvement, there are plenty of options for reliable Wi-Fi in cities and towns.