Backpackers

Nicaragua is billed as a "backpackers' paradise," because it's cheap to live here. Backpackers, more or less by definition, love living on the cheap. Unfortunately, this often seems to mean  staying at rat-infested hostels, eating the barest essentials, and sticking together in clumps (which at least allow for group discounts, but doesn't really prompt them to try to meet other people). And it's a shame, because often the second-cheapest option is a lot more interesting.*

There are a few telltale signs that set the backpacker apart from other travelers.

• The backpack, of course.
• "Hippie" or "rasta"-style clothing.
• Sunburn (camping on the beach is hella cheap, yo--and applying sunscreen is a chore). 
• A generally dazed expression and a frequent lack of interest in the particulars of the next destination
• Oddly, they are almost never spotted wearing shoes. Sandals are the watchword of the day.**

On the one hand, it's cool to see so many people who want to explore a place that isn't exactly famous for tourism, and I hope they reflect on the culture and politics*** of the area and how it contrasts with their homes. On the other hand, my experience seems to indicate that it's really just a cheap getaway to them and they're no more enlightened than the average tourist. 

Oh well. Another subculture, another category, another tourist trail.


* It isn't as though they don't have the money to enjoy cultural activities. I hope it's not typical, but I was recently sitting in a water taxi (i.e., a boat) with a group of backpackers talking about their stupid parents who had the nerve to be upset because the backpackers had spent all their money and were asking for more. ("Hey, I can't help it that the rum down here is so good!" one explained.)  

** Which is endlessly fascinating to me, as the Moon Guide they're all carrying, and which I have as well, repeatedly stresses the importance of a modest appearance to Nicaraguans--and it's true. Even in the heat (hot!) of the day, most people on the street are wearing long pants and dress shoes.  
 
*** Another unfortunate incident I witnessed: after a parade marking the 25th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution, a couple of backpackers picked up a dropped FSLN flag and began waving it around goofily. A local man came up to them, snatched it from their hands, and gave them a good talking-to. Don't know if it sank in.