Central America

Synopsis

Lonely Planet Central America is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Scale the Maya temples of Tikal, surf the smoothest and most uncrowded waves in Latin America, or explore the colonial charms of Granada -all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Central America and begin your journey now!

Inside Lonely Planet Central America:

• Colour maps and images throughout
• Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
• Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
• Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices
• Recommendations & honest reviews - eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
• Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, music, cuisine, sports, wildlife, environment, architecture, literature, cinema, current events
• Covers Mexico's Yucatan & Chiapas, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama and more

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet Central America is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled.

About Lonely Planet: Since 1973, Lonely Planet has become the world's leading travel media company with guidebooks to every destination, an award-winning website, mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveller community. Lonely Planet covers must-see spots but also enables curious travelers to get off beaten paths to understand more of the culture of the places in which they find themselves.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Land and Its People

* Summary: Introduces the geography, climate, natural resources, and ethnic diversity of Central America.
* Real Example: The lush rainforests of Costa Rica are home to a vast array of plant and animal life, including exotic birds like the resplendent quetzal.

Chapter 2: Colonial Legacy and Independence

* Summary: Explores the history of European colonization and the struggle for independence in Central America.
* Real Example: Guatemala's colonial architecture, including the magnificent Cathedral of Antigua, reflects the influence of Spanish rule.

Chapter 3: Economic Development and Inequality

* Summary: Examines the region's economy, including agriculture, industry, and tourism. Analyzes the causes and consequences of socioeconomic inequality.
* Real Example: Honduras, a major producer of bananas, faces challenges related to labor exploitation and environmental degradation.

Chapter 4: Political Systems and Challenges

* Summary: Discusses the political systems in Central America, including democracy, authoritarianism, and corruption. Highlights the challenges facing these governments.
* Real Example: Nicaragua has experienced political instability and authoritarian rule under President Daniel Ortega.

Chapter 5: Human Rights and Social Justice

* Summary: Addresses issues of human rights, poverty, crime, and migration in Central America. Explores the efforts to promote social justice and equality.
* Real Example: El Salvador has implemented programs to reduce gang violence, which has been a major problem in the country.

Chapter 6: Regional Cooperation and Integration

* Summary: Analyzes the efforts of Central American countries to cooperate and integrate regionally, including through organizations like the Central American Common Market (CACM).
* Real Example: The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) provides financial assistance and technical support to promote regional development.

Chapter 7: The United States and Central America

* Summary: Examines the historical and contemporary relationship between the United States and Central America, including issues of immigration, trade, and aid.
* Real Example: U.S. assistance programs have been aimed at promoting economic development, countering drug trafficking, and strengthening democracy in the region.

Chapter 8: The Future of Central America

* Summary: Concludes the book with an assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing Central America. Explores possible paths towards greater prosperity, stability, and social justice.
* Real Example: Costa Rica has made progress in areas such as environmental protection, health, and education, serving as a potential model for the region.