Nicaragua Presents Itself in Rome: A Journey Through Authenticity, Sustainability, and Wonder

The key figure of the event was Her Excellency Monica Robelo Raffone, Ambassador of Nicaragua to Italy, who gave a heartfelt and visionary speech. She emphasized that tourism in her country is not just an economic sector, but a strategic tool for sustainable development and social cohesion.

"Nicaragua is an authentic, welcoming, and safe country, where visitors are never just tourists—they are guests, friends. Our goal is not to become an indistinct destination, but one that stands out, one that values human connection, local culture, and natural beauty without compromising them," she declared.

Her words highlighted a powerful vision of tourism as a vehicle for cultural exchange and personal transformation. Rather than simply offering attractions, Nicaragua invites travelers into a deep and meaningful experience—an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and engage with resilient, vibrant communities.

A central moment of the event was the presentation by Dr. Junior Escobar Fonseca, Head of Cooperation at the Nicaraguan Embassy in Italy, who provided a detailed and engaging overview of the country’s new territorial promotion strategies and ongoing sustainable development initiatives.

Thanks to his deep knowledge of the region and an international perspective on cooperation, Dr. Escobar was able to link tourism interest with Nicaragua’s social and economic dynamics. He highlighted integrated projects that go beyond conventional tourism, promoting fair trade, artisan networks, and agroecological routes that allow travelers to discover the roots of local identity.

"Tourism is a powerful tool for cohesion and development, and every new visitor is a bridge between cultures and opportunities," he stated.

Among the innovations presented was INTUR’s new multilingual digital platform—a user-friendly, interactive tool designed to simplify travel planning and bring Nicaragua closer to the international traveler. The platform features curated itineraries, real-time updates, and resources for tour operators seeking authentic and responsible travel experiences.

The event also showcased infrastructure upgrades and new tourism development projects, including a scenic coastal cycling route along the Pacific Ocean—perfect for eco-tourists and adventure seekers—alongside modern medical centers and wellness-oriented resorts, contributing to the rise of health and slow tourism in the region.

Participants were introduced to the incredible diversity Nicaragua offers: picture-postcard beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, the elegant colonial charm of cities like Granada and León, breathtaking landscapes dotted with lakes and volcanoes, and untouched nature reserves teeming with wildlife. From surfing in San Juan del Sur to birdwatching in the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve, Nicaragua caters to every kind of traveler—from thrill-seekers to those looking for spiritual retreats.

Cultural tourism also plays a central role, with a rich calendar of traditional festivals, music, and indigenous crafts that allow visitors to discover the living heritage of the country. Culinary tourism is also on the rise, with local gastronomic experiences ranging from street food markets to farm-to-table initiatives featuring ingredients like cacao, coffee, tropical fruits, and fresh seafood.

Still relatively undiscovered by the broader Italian and European public, Nicaragua is emerging as a conscious traveler's dream destination—welcoming, affordable, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible.

“Nicaragua is not just a destination—it’s an experience to live, share, and carry in your heart. And those who visit become our ambassadors to the world,” concluded the Ambassador.

🙏 Thanks to INTUR, the Embassy of Nicaragua, and IILA for this extraordinary event—an inspiring showcase of a country ready to shine on the global tourism map.