Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua

Floating like an apparition in the middle of  Lago de Nicaragua, the largest lake in Central America, Isla de Ometepe has been called "an oasis of peace." Even during Nicaragua's brutal Sandinista Revolution of the 1970's, this tranquil island remained untouched by violence. Isla de Ometepe's lush tropical landscape, dramatic twin volcanoes, rich pre-Columbian past, and welcoming inhabitants make it a truly unique place. In fact, the Nicaraguan government has designated the entire island  a nature reserve and national cultural heritage site.

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Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua - Images by John Mitchell

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is one of the most atmospheric towns in Central America. The city dates back to 1543, when it became the capital of Guatemala. Antigua's many handsome Spanish colonial buildings were almost completely destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1773. Three years later, the capital was moved to the present site of Guatemala City. Antigua slowly came back to life, and today its earthquake-ravaged convents and baroque churches, colorful Maya markets, and backdrop of soaring volcanoes offer endless photographic possibilities. Antigua was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

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Antigua, Guatemala - Images by John Mitchell