Have you ever travelled somewhere expecting to find something quite specific then once you leave realizing you’ve been enlightened in an entirely different way? That seems to be the magic for those who venture to La Mariposa Spanish School and Eco-Hotel, located less than an hour from Managua, Nicaragua. This year marked our third visit to the eco hotel/Spanish School and, as always, we leave with complex thoughts and full hearts. When asked “why we keep returning” the first words out of my mouth were “it makes me feel human in a way I can’t describe”. Let me try to explain…..
The Vision
We all need purpose in life……. La Mariposa, founded by a brilliant British woman (Paulette) has created an environment where every person involved in the day-to-day has a place and purpose. There are numerous cogs needed in the wheel and each one is equally important. Paulette had a vision and made it happen. She’s a woman of strong principles, an environmentalist, an intellectual, a kind and humane person who walks her talk like no person I’ve ever met.
La Mariposa is a phenomenal Spanish school which prides itself on the quality of its teachers and programs. Each student receives 4 hours of one-on-one lessons per day, catering to any level of Spanish.
The school is an integral part of the local community of La Concha. It’s composed of Nicaraguans who are committed to Paulette’s visions. Perhaps photos are the best way to convey the essence? Have a look:
The School and Lodgings
The Teachers
The Staff
La Mariposa employs dozens and dozens of local people. This includes teachers, cooks physiotherapists for disabled children, maintenance people and gardeners. They all lovingly care for the students, the rescued animals and their own community.
The “Projects”
Tuition paid by La Mariposa students contribute to so many amazing “projects” within the local community. Unfortunately, with the political uprising of 2018 in Nicaragua, followed by the pandemic, many of the projects have suffered. Through the perseverance of Paulette and the entire La Mariposa community, however, many wonderful projects continue to help those less fortunate in the area.
The Animals of La Mariposa
People of the local community
Life is not easy in rural Nicaragua…..The simplicity is daunting but there is a level of contentment that is palpable from the friendly, hard working people.
La Mariposa is not glamorous or glitzy, it’s located off the beaten track, but it’s a special place that is part of the fabric in its small community. People who find their way to this magical location often plan on staying for a week or two and end up staying much longer. There’s definitely something special in that! Thank you to Paulette and all of the wonderful Nica people who welcome travellers from around the world!
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