chinandega, ni

​The north of Nicaragua is very rural. There is a town called Chinandega that is not far from the border of Honduras, that is the largest town there. Bank, supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. However other than your basic life needs, there’s really no need to go there for longer than an afternoon. So this is not a place that I recommend spending any time in or anything, but if you are in the north of Nicaragua is going to be an important place to know. It's the gateway to 'The Boom' and Aposentillo. So this is where you are going to be able to stock up on supplies, get money, etc. I would also recommend getting your cell service or sim card here if you need it. There won't be anywhere to do that anywhere else in the North. In general though, Chinandega is just another chaotic Nicaraguan town. Carts and horses all over the place. Market stalls throughout town. It's certainly a very heavy introduction to the country as it's the first place you'll go through as you come down from Honduras.  Just calling it out. Especially if you have your own vehicle, you will go through Chinandega. It's located about 45 minutes from The Boom. So gas up, food up, money up.