Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
“Good Morning!”, “Welcome!” These were the words we heard as we touched the sand on Little Corn Island. Located 49 miles offshore, this English-speaking Island is a favorite tourist destination for Nicaraguans. Most of the island residents are of African origin; they arrived with the Spanish entrance to the new world.
The town was ringing with lively church music; little girls in beautiful pastel-colored dresses adorned the sidewalks. The town seemed to have many activities going on, including a baseball game, the favorite pastime of Nicaragua.
Many of us walked through town, some crossed the island enjoying the people and the natural beauty. We met “Twyla” Byan a local artist, who studied tourism and was happy to accompany us providing stories of this island. According to the locals, the name “Corn island” was coined by Miskito Indians, who stayed on these remote island for many months fishing, and growing corn to supplement their diet. Today this is not the case, however the locals do celebrate there 162 years of emancipation in August with “cususa” the local moonshine made of corn.
Many experiences were enjoyed; we snorkeled off a secluded beach, photographed the sleepy town, or mingled at the beachfront bars enjoying a cold frosty Victoria the Nicaraguan beer. But before heading to Honduras, there was still time to enjoy a swim off the stern in these beautiful aqua waters of Little Corn Island. After lunch we raised the anchor and continued on our Central American Odyssey.
“Good Morning!”, “Welcome!” These were the words we heard as we touched the sand on Little Corn Island. Located 49 miles offshore, this English-speaking Island is a favorite tourist destination for Nicaraguans. Most of the island residents are of African origin; they arrived with the Spanish entrance to the new world.
The town was ringing with lively church music; little girls in beautiful pastel-colored dresses adorned the sidewalks. The town seemed to have many activities going on, including a baseball game, the favorite pastime of Nicaragua.
Many of us walked through town, some crossed the island enjoying the people and the natural beauty. We met “Twyla” Byan a local artist, who studied tourism and was happy to accompany us providing stories of this island. According to the locals, the name “Corn island” was coined by Miskito Indians, who stayed on these remote island for many months fishing, and growing corn to supplement their diet. Today this is not the case, however the locals do celebrate there 162 years of emancipation in August with “cususa” the local moonshine made of corn.
Many experiences were enjoyed; we snorkeled off a secluded beach, photographed the sleepy town, or mingled at the beachfront bars enjoying a cold frosty Victoria the Nicaraguan beer. But before heading to Honduras, there was still time to enjoy a swim off the stern in these beautiful aqua waters of Little Corn Island. After lunch we raised the anchor and continued on our Central American Odyssey.
