We really travel at a snails' pace - two months have passed since we entered Central America in Belize - time flies! However, a few lasting impressions and experiences we shall take with us:
An inconvenience we Europeans are no longer used to are the borders that separate these sometimes tiny countries from each other. Since we entered Belize we had to wait on average for about 2,5 hours at each border crossing before our papers were ready - that is about 20 hours in total. Add to that the money spent (still reasonable) or my nervous breakdowns! I cannot help but wonder why these countries - although certainly very different - do not manage to unite in an entity similar to the European Union!
The countries we visited are indeed very different. Belize and the entire Caribbean coast is heavily influenced by African culture, English is predominantly spoken and life seems to be as easy going as on the island of Jamaica. Bob Marley is still alive!
In Guatemala the influence of the indigenous population is highly visible. At least close to the border of Mexico the indigenous people haven't really mixed with other people and sometimes enforce the law by applying biblical methods (an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth).
We cannot comment on Honduras or El Salvador as we spent more time at the borders than within the countries themselves.
In Nicaragua, as in other neighboring countries, we were confronted with poverty, but it seemed to be much more visible here than elsewhere. However, our "Christmas vacation" was spent on one of the most beautiful beaches in Central America (remember Matilda's?).
Contrasting with poor Nicaragua is Costa Rica - a rich and very beautiful country, heavily influenced by the United States. Traveling in Costa Rica might have been a little too easy for our liking, however, Ticos are most wonderful and hospitable people!
Panama is also heavily influenced (historically) by the US, however, at this point in time, it seems to be at the crossroads and only time will tell if the country can develop its own identity or will strive to copy the US lifestyle.
To decide which of the countries is the most beautiful is impossible to say. You might as well ask "Brangelina" which of their six children's the most wonderful. Every country has its own distinct beauty!
We managed, however, to come up with a list of campgrounds in Central America that we really liked. If you are interested have a look (soon) at "Info & Tips for Travellers" - "Periodic updates".
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