Frequently Asked Questions
General Nicaragua and Local Transportation Questions
What airport is recommended to fly into?
We recommend flying into Managua (MGA) airport, Nicaragua’s only international airport. The following airlines have regular flights from the US to Nicaragua: Continental Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Taca and Copa Airlines. Direct flights to Managua (Nicaragua’s capital city) are scheduled from LA, Miami, Houston, Fort Lauderdale, New York and Atlanta. There are many online websites where you can check the cost of airfare to Managua, Nicaragua (airport code: MGA). This is not something that our resort can help you determine. It is also possible to fly into a Costa Rican airport, but you will need to cross the Penas Blancas border into Nicaragua, which can be time consuming.
Is there transportation available from the airport to the resort? How much does it cost and how far of a drive is it?
The resort provides transportation from Managua (MGA) airport in our air-conditioned van. Be aware that public busses do not leave from the airport and it will be difficult to find the bus station if you do not speak Spanish. The driving distance between the Managua Airport and Villas de Palermo in San Juan del Sur is approximately 2 hours. Transportation can be arranged for an additional fee. To check transportation rates or schedule a pick-up, please email the Front Desk at Villas de Palermo, frontdesk@villasdepalermo.com.
Do I need a Visa? Are there required country entrance or exit fees to be paid at the airport?
You do not need to a Visa to enter Nicaragua if you are from North America or Europe. You will be required to purchase a Tourist Visa at the airport upon arrival. The Tourist Visa is $10 USD per person. You should bring exact change. The Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days in Nicaragua. There is no exit fee unless you exit by land via the border of Costa Rica.
What is the Climate like in Nicaragua?
In Nicaragua, the temperature does not vary greatly with the seasons and is largely a function of elevation. Daytime temperatures average 86°F to 91°F, and night temperatures fall to 69°F to 75°F for most of the year. Rainfall is seasonal. The wettest months are May through to October and the driest December to April.
Do I need medical vaccinations?
No vaccinations are needed for short-term travel between Managua and San Juan del Sur. As always, you should consult your local travel doctor. The only things you need to worry about bringing are sunscreen, bug spray with DEET (if you are coming in the rainy season) and your swim clothes.
What is the local currency and local exchange rate? Should I change money prior to arrival? Are ATM’s available to get cash? How much should I tip?
Nicaragua’s currency is the córdoba, written with the symbol C$. The current exchange rate is approximately 23.2 córdobas to the US dollar. Dollars are accepted everywhere in Nicaragua, however many times they will give you change back in the local currency. Tipping in Nicaragua is sometimes included in the bill at restaurants and resorts, but you should always ask. It is standard to tip 10%. Credit cards are accepted throughout our resort at many of the local restaurants and bars in town. Credit cards are not accepted at the local grocery store, the local market or many of the local food vendors. There are several ATM’s available in town all of the local banks. The ATM’s will distribute either local córdobas or the US dollar.
Hotel Questions
What is the size of the Villa? What does it include?
Each villa has two bedroom suites – one queen bed in each suite and a private bathroom in each suite. In addition, each villa has a full kitchen, living room, dining area, and outdoor porch with free wifi. The kitchen is fully stocked with dishware, cooking utensils, microwave and a coffee pot with filters. All rooms in each villa are air-conditioned.
What is the maximum capicty for a Villa? Can we get an extra bed?
Each villa can sleep a maximum of 5 people. The fifth person will incur an additional charge of US$25/night, which includes a twin bed. For a party of four, you may also add one crib or twin bed for an additional cost of US$25/night. Children under the age of 3 are not included in the limit of 5 guests per villa.
What does an upgrade to a Luxury Villa include?
Our luxury villas are the same floor plan as every other villa in our resort. Those designated “luxury” are closer to the restaurant and pool than others; they are flatter walk to the restaurant and pool than others; they have a second TV – located in the upstairs bedroom suite; and they have a back-up generator.
When is Check-In and Check-Out?
Check-in time is 2PM and check-out time is noon.
Are pets allowed?
No, sorry. We are pet loving people but can not allow for pets due to sanitary restrictions.
Is the resort kid friendly?
We welcome kids! The resort is a great place for kids of all ages. Our pool has a shallow section perfect for kids to play and swim in. We can assist with the coordination of various activities for kids including a zip-line canopy tour, surf lessons, horseback riding and more. We also offer daily babysitting services and activities with an English speaking school professional. There is also a kids menu that you can check out on our website; and you can ask the chef to make whatever your kids prefer. All our food is cooked to order, so you can modify what you like. We can provide a baby crib for $25 per night.
How far away are town and the beach?
The resort is 1 mile from town and each villa has a panoramic view of the bay and surrounding canopy. We can arrange transportation, at an additional fee, back and forth between the main beach in town, local restaurants and shops and the grocery store during daylight hours, therefore so you will have plenty of opportunity to explore San Juan del Sur on your own. At many of the local surf shops in town you can book daily shuttles to other popular surf beaches such as Playa Hermosa and Playa Maderas.
Security?
Our resort has on-site security 24 hours each day. Secure parking is available on site. In addition, each villa has a large locking cabinet, where we encourage you to secure your passports, laptops, cameras, cash, iPods and other valuables while you are not in the villa.
Is there a restaurant on site? Is there room service available? What hours does it run?
The hotel offers an air-conditioned fine-dining restaurant, Terraza de Palermo. We also offer a more casual menu on our outdoor dining patio near the pool and at the poolside bar. Room service is also available throughout the hours that the restaurants are serving: 7AM – 7PM. The food is made-to-order from local, fresh ingredients and delicious!
Can we book activities and excursions through the resort?
Yes, absolutely! We offer a selection of activities in and around San Juan del Sur as well as day trips to other cities such as Granada (1.5 hour drive) and Masaya (1.5 hour drive). Click here to learn more information about here our suggested activities.