A wise mission team coordinator, Bill Kimball once said "He that has not expectations will not be disappointed and he that is flexible will not be bent out of shape ".
Health Requirements:
1.) Medical care is minimal in Central America
2.) I highly recommend that you take personal prescriptions you may require along with basic first aid items for sunburn, or aloe lotion, sun block, band-aids, anti-bacterial ointment, toiletries, Tylenol, Pepto-Bismol, or common over the counter remedies.
3.) Make an appointment with your doctor for a general check up and explain your mission trip plans.
4.) Central America countries do not require immunization. However, it is a good idea to keep your immunizations current;
such as tetanus and polio, etc.
5.) The following prescriptions are highly recommended: generic Lomotal for severe diarrhea, and generic Bactrim for
intestinal infections. There are many over-the-counter remedies you can take; remember you only need a 6 day supply.
6.) Your county health department or family physician can assist you with the ultimate protection against
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Cholera, and Malaria. Consult your doctor for advice.
Personal Money
1. ) It is recommended to take at least $ 250.00 USD for spending money. Some people may want to bring more money if
substantial purchases such as jewelry, etc. are planned .You can import up to $400.00 worth of souvenirs upon return to the USA.
When the value exceeds $400.00 you will be assessed an import tax by the US Government.
2.) It may be helpful to have a major credit card in case of an emergency.
3.) Do not carry large amount of cash. Traveler checks can not easily be exchanged for local currency.
Exchange only what you need in the country.Neck wallets can be purchased at any luggage or department store.
4.) Aside from major purchases, carrying $10.00 USA per day exchanged into local currency will be more than you will need for the purchase of soft drinks, snacks and water.
5.) All meals on the road are included in your trip cost. The airline may provide a meal or refreshment during the flights.
You will be responsible for snacks and a meal or refreshments during layovers.
6.) You will encounter many needy people, consult Pastor Lou or Mrs. Rosa before giving anyone money or gifts.
If you invest your gift to sponsor a child or one of the national pastors, your dollars will be well spent.
7.) When you leave Central America, carry only what you need each day in your pockets. Leave your valuables at home.
Clothing
1.) The best rule is to travel light with wheeled suitcases. An over loaded suitcase filled with unnecessary items will slow you down.
2.) In Central America, days are hot and nights are cool, especially in the mountain villages.
3.) Dress light and casual. Bring a jacket or sweater for the cool nights. Men will want to bring short sleeved shirts and khaki pants, for church. Ladies may also wear shorts and may want to bring casual light cotton dresses. Bring one church like dress. Wrinkle free is the key- irons may be available depending on location. Also, bring feminine hygiene products, make-up, etc. These items are available in Central America, but are expensive. Casual wear in public is fine.
Food
1.) You may want to take some snack foods such as trail mix, hard candy, crackers, nuts, etc. The children love to
receive little wrapped candies. These candies make a great opportunity to witness to children and adults. Remember chocolate tastes great but melts in the heat.
2.) Zip-lock bags do a great job to keep out dust or insects from your snacks. They can also be reused to carry souvenirs home.
3.) Do not drink the tap water or brush your teeth with it. Showering or bathing with tap watered is no problem.
Avoid getting shower water in your mouth. If you do you will survive, but you may experience discomfort. A good remedy is to use mouthwash.
Recommended Miscellaneous Items:
1.) Small backpack or fanny pack for carrying personal items such as a camera, film, antiseptic.
2.) Towelettes, vitamins, insect repellant, Kleenex, gum to reduce aircraft cabin pressure-sinuses, mints, and a small bottle of water when traveling.
Trip Logistics:
1.) U.S. Airlines to Central America. You will check your luggage all the way through to Central America. You will check your luggage all the way through Managua. It is suggested you use your carry on luggage for your passport, money, camera, a good book, Bible, valuables, prescriptions, spare glasses, personal hygiene products, and enough clothing for 2-3 days; in the event your luggage is delayed.
2.) About 30 minutes before our arrival into Managua use the restroom on the airplane. Have your passport and tourist card ready for quick access and display. Upon arrival, follow the team leaders from the plane into immigration. Do not give your passport or tourist card to anyone by the immigration agents. A smile works great at this time with agents. You will need $ 5.00 for an entrance fee upon arrival. After clearing immigration, proceed to the luggage claim area. Wait for everyone to claim their bags, and then we will go as group. If you are stopped by a custom agent, act normal and smile. You may be asked to open you suit case; do as you are told. Do not give your suitcase to anyone. If you do ... do not expect to see it again. Protect your valuables and passport
3.) Keep a personal journal handy and try to make a few entries each day. Recording your thoughts will make for great
reading later.
Other Important Do's and Don'ts
1.) Always travel with your teammate, especially in a crowded airports and markets.
2.) Protect your valuables such as passports, airline tickets and money with an inexpensive neck wallet.
3.) Fanny packs, backpacks, and belly packs are great for personal supplies for the days, but not for monies,
airline tickets and passports.
4.) Drink plenty of bottled water and fruit juices. It will help you to avoid dehydration.
5.) Always be polite and look for an opportunity to show the Love of Jesus.
6.) Please let Lewis know if you have any personal concerns, problems and sickness of if you have any questions.
7.) Keep about $ 25.00 USD for the return trip home.
8.) No weapons are permitted.
You are on a mission trip for God.....we are proud and excited for you to be on the team. Be Blessed!
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Reminders:
There are several items you will not want to forget. Be sure to pack toiletries items in a zip lock bag to prevent soiling other items in your suitcase;
Items not always available and are often expensive in Nicaragua.
- Ample supply of anti-bacterial handy wipes or sanitizer
- hair shampoo
-toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash
-light robe, flip flops for shower
-spare zip lock bags
-laundry bag and plastic garbage bags
