With comprehensive information on all seven countries (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama) of Central America, and details of current and past political trends, this guide includes information boxes where writers share their experiences and viewpoints, which helps the reader capture the adventure of budget travel in Central America. It covers everything from Nicaragua's charged politics to Mayan history to a writer's run-in with guerillas. As with other Berkeley Guides, the book provides the student and adventurous traveller alike with tips on low-cost or free places to stay and eat.