article_snippet: (CNN)The sun cuts across Nicaragua, casting shadows across lush flora and brightly colored boats.
article_snippet: During my recent guided visit with Nicaragua Vacations, I took a boat tour through the Islets of Granada, home to 365 scattered islands with majestic views of Mombacho volcano.
article_snippet: At times, there was no other boat in sight -- only the rustle of a hidden howler monkey in the bushes and Mombacho volcano, ensconced in clouds and morning fog.
article_snippet: the Islets of Granada are just southeast of the city of Granada (population approximately 120,000), where colonial buildings defy time, narrow alleyways lead to garden courtyards, charming boutiques are full of local art and street carts overflow with everything from iguanas to cashews.
article_snippet: Nicaragua Vacations; +1 866 347 4012 .
article_snippet: Jicaro Island Ecolodge, Granada Isleta, Nicaragua; +505 2558 7652 (hotel), +505 2558 7702