It is never easy to get to paradise. If that were the case, everyone would be here and it would no longer be paradise. Arriving at Little Corn Island in Nicaragua is evidence of this. It takes 3 planes and a boat from almost anywhere in United States. to get there.
The newest plane ride, a 90-minute hop from Managua to Big Corn Island, is described in an online review as “a thrill ride in a noisy tin can. ” Hanging from the seat, which is a little more comfortable than a plastic school chair. , I put on my headphones and tried to forget about the intense shaking of the plane as it took off.
The transition from turbulent skies to serene waters is palpable. When we left the dock, the adventure from Big Corn Island seemed like a departure from reality. Sitting among a handful of fellow travelers, I can feel a collective sense of anticipation for what we were about to see. The conversations faded, replaced by the rhythmic hum of the boat’s engine and the hypnotic calm of the waves. When Little Corn Island appeared, its lush vegetation and pristine beaches seemed almost surreal. Finally, after a 12-hour adventure, I entered a foot of clear blue water where a Yemaya Reefs Resort staff member greeted me with a cold towel and a refreshing, comfortable drink, like a scene straight out of White Lotus.
“Welcome to Little Corn Island,” he says with a smile. Let it begin. “
There are many types of vacations. Some vacations are active and spend days exploring ancient cities, visiting all the museums, and taking selfies in front of prominent monuments. Others are adventurous and spend hours, days, going to a position just to walk, bike, or jump out of it. And then there are purely restful vacations, in which gentle activities are optional and rest is the main goal.
Little Corn Island falls into the latter category. Home to around 800 people, this 1. 5 square mile gem is located 50 miles off the east coast of Nicaragua. There are no cars, no vending machines, no flashy hotels or tourist traps. Instead, revel in the tranquility of lush jungles and pristine beaches reminiscent of Costa Rica, but at a fraction of the price.
The island’s winding dirt roads lead through dense jungles and abandoned coves to hidden beaches that feel like your own personal paradise. The island is small enough to cover its entire circumference in one day. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon local gems like the exclusive farmer’s market or the bakery that sells delicious coconut breads. Otto Beach, on the northwestern tip of the island, is a popular beach with its crystal clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and calm enough for paddleboarding.
The only luxury accommodation on the island is the Yemaya Reefs Resort. 16 beachfront casitas blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The hotel offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving and sunset cruises. On-site yoga categories and a spa with treatments are offered to help visitors relax. Or you can do what I did for most of my stay: sit on the porch, grab coffee, and gaze out over the vast blue ocean. When I needed a change of scenery, I would slide into the pool on my deck and continue my wave watching contest.
In the evening, you can swoon in the city and start your night with dinner at Turned Turtle, known for its new seafood and Caribbean flavors. Then, head to the Tranquilo Café, an open-air bar where the sounds of reggae are heard. The music mixes with the hum of crashing waves. The walls feature colorful artwork by traveling artists, and a chalkboard menu lists new seafood and local produce. On quiz nights, teams gather under the comfortable glow of colored lights, debate answers, and enjoy a diversity of tropical cocktails: piña coladas with a touch of new pineapple from the island, mojitos paired with carefully selected mint, and the special space, a rum punch that tastes delicious.
Although venturing outdoors was fun, I spent most of my evenings dining at Yemaya’s seafood restaurant. Open to hotel visitors and visitors alike, the rotating menu fuses local flavors with entirely new ingredients. Think new lobster dishes paired with a look of freshly picked vegetables that still bring the smell of the garden, ceviche so new it feels like the ocean is dancing on your tongue, and creamy, coconut-infused curry that gives you the ready-made meal you had. I didn’t know you were missing your tropical vacation. The menu pieces reflect the rich culinary heritage of the local Afro-Nicaraguan population.
Yemaya Reefs continues to celebrate the island’s heritage with weekly performances through Garifuna dancers and musicians at a beach bonfire dinner. The Garifuna people, descended from the peoples of West Africa, Central Africa, the insular Caribbean and the Arawak, have a cultural heritage deeply connected to rhythmic music and dance. The dancers kick the sand with their feet in sync with the hypnotic rhythm of drums, maracas and melodious songs.
After a week of enjoying the latest seafood, taking in endless ocean views, and soaking up the island’s rich culture, I felt transformed. The return vacation (3 flights and a boat ride) no longer seemed intimidating. Instead, with A Renewed Sense of Peace and Relaxation, it was like a gentle transition into reality, a reminder of the paradise I had reluctantly left behind.
Jennifer Simonson is an industry editor and lover of the world’s food, cultures, beverages, and outdoor spaces through nature. Follow her on Instagram @storystoldwell.
© 2024 Pegar Media Group. All rights reserved