Driving around Managua can be difficult. Major earthquakes have left the city with no clear street address system. Most directions are not given using street names but by landmarks instead. Buses run regularly around Managua. There are no map routes for buses so it is best to simply ask someone, as local people memorize the routes.
The Catedral de Managua was the oldest cathedral in Managua; it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1972 and its ruins are still on view. The Palacio Nacional was the old national palace and is now a museum dedicated to the history of the area. There is a guided tour in both English and Spanish. The Footprints of Acahualinca can be found in Managua. These are the footprints of people and animals who fled a volcano eruption about 4000 BC near Lake Managua. There are four volcanic lagoons found within the limits of the city.
The most famous festival in Managua is that of its patron saint, Santo Domingo de Guzman. It begins on August 1, when people carry the statue of Santo Domingo from Las Sierritas Church in the south of Managua. It stays there for ten days until the "Subida del Santo" (walking up of the saint), when the statue is returned to its church. During the parades there are colorful costumes and marching bands and much eating and drinking. Another festival takes place at the beginning of March every year and is called "Alegria por la Vida" ("Happiness for Life"). This began in 2003 and a carnival queen is picked to lead the procession of floats and live music.
Managua restaurants offer a wide range of cuisine, including Italian and Spanish. Steak is very popular served with a sauce known as "chimichurri," which is made from oil, garlic and herbs. The most common foods found in Managua include rice, beans and cabbage. There is also a tradition of making sweets in Managua and the local sweet is called "Cajeta de leche," which is made from condensed milk, nuts and coconuts.
Crime is relatively low in Managua but in recent years there have been reports that gang violence is on the increase. Tourists are advised to travel in groups or with someone who understands Spanish. Buses can be very overcrowded and, although overhead luggage compartments are available, it is best to keep tight hold of any bags you may have. While traveling in taxis, keeping the windows closed helps to prevent beggars asking for money and deters any opportunistic thieves from grabbing any valuables you may have.
