Nicaragua
Corn Island – Where Even Travelers on a Strict Budget Can Afford a Caribbean Vacation
Jan 19th
Corn Island is a hidden paradise along the eastern coast of Nicaragua. Here, you can enjoy a genuine Caribbean island vacation without having to spend thousands of dollars on Aruba, St Barth, Montserrat or any of the other more well-known Caribbean holiday destinations. Room prices at the Corn Island normally start around 10 USD and your cheapest dining option is to purchase food from street vendors. You can easily get a street-meal for less than 2 USD.
The Corn Islands are two islands dotted in the Caribbean Sea right off the coast of Nicaragua, with Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the south. The larger of the islands are known as Big Corn, and the diminutive one has (of course) been given the name Little Corn.
Before you decide to jump on a plane to get here, a word of caution: Little and Big Corn are not suitable for vacationers in search of giant luxurious hotel complexes and four star restaurants. This vacation spot is off the beaten track and then some. Bluefield, the closets mainland town, isn’t even accessible by road from western Nicaragua where a majority of the Nicaraguans live. Instead, you need to go by boat from the colonial city of Granada or by plane from the Managua, the country’s capital. A small propeller plane departs several times a day from Sandino Airport in the outskirts of Managua and will stop first at Bluefield and then at Big Corn. To get to Little Corn you need to catch a boat from Big Corn.
If you want modern appliances like fans, air-conditioners and TV then Big Corn is the best alternative for you. If you are okay with staying in a beach hut enjoying the sea breeze instead of a fan, then Little Corn is an option. Regardless of which island you choose it can be a good idea to pack a flashlight because blackouts sometimes occur. They are considered a normal part of life and do not really cause any disruptions to the pace of things. Everyone will simply go about there business as usual, and you won’t have any trouble finding an open restaurant where you can enjoy a candle lit dinner prepared over open fire or on a gas stove.
Little and Big Corn are famous for their well-kept coral reefs. Divers and snorkelers will not be disappointed, and since such few visitors ever come to the Corn Islands the reefs are in very good condition. If you want to get your certificate during your vacations, PADI instructors are available. The reefs off Little and Big Corn are home to sea creatures such as the spotted eagle ray, the nurse shark, the sea turtle and the barracuda.
Another popular pastime on Corn Island is fishing. The ocean is teaming with species such as sailfish, tuna and marlin, and giant tarpon and snook is caught in the rivers and lagoons. Several operators arrange boat trips to suitable fishing areas and will provide you with all the equipment you need. Before booking a cruise, make sure to check if food and drinks are included in the price or not. Some organizers will host a dinner in the evening after each trip where the anglers get a chance to enjoy the catch of the day, prepared in typical Caribbean style.
TPS Registration Period Starts for Nicaraguans
Jan 18th
Washington, DC May 29, 2007- The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published an official publication which announced that the registration period for TPS starts on May 29th, 2007 and will expire end after 60 days. Michael Chertoff, the Secretary of DHS, announced this month that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for individuals from Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador will be extended until January 5, 2009. From May 29, 2007 until July 30, 2007, citizens or nationals of Nicaragua will be able to apply to renew or register for TPS. July 30, 2007 will be the last day for Nicaraguans to renew or register for TPS.
Beginning on May 29, 2007, applicants who were born in or have lived in Nicaragua before entering the United States will obtain protective status under TPS. Protection under TPS began in 1990 to protect individuals from countries that have suffered national catastrophes. TPS applies to countries that have suffered natural disasters, ongoing civil wars, etc.
On July 5th, 2007, temporary protected statuts (TPS) protection expires for individuals from Nicaragua. Beneficiaries of this protection who have a valid work permit may continue using it until July 5th of 2007. Individuals that apply to renew their TPS status will obtain a work permit valid until January 5, 2009.
You will not be able to apply for TPS after July 30, 2007. Applicants should begin their renewal procedures as soon as possible to assure that they will receive their renewal and work permit on time. It is also very important to note that the current USCIS filing fees will increase effective July 30th, 2007 for TPS application and all other procedures.
