I arrived in Managua at 7:30 pm April 20, 2018 (I travel solo). It was the second night of student-led protests, which started as an outbreak of fury over unfair social security reforms in which the government was to apply a 5% tax to old-age and disability pensions and increase the contributions paid by both employees and employers, while their money is wasted on things like the artsy metal trees on medians in Managua. At the airport I had planned to have been met by a friend, but since roads all over Managua were closed due to the protests, he was stuck in traffic, I managed to share a ride in one of the few taxis that made it to the airport. Needless to say, the ride from the airport was stop and go, with protesters all along the roads, fires under each metal art tree called the "Árboles de la Vida" (on which much of the peoples money was wasted), and tire fires in the middle of each intersection. Mostly the protesters were peaceful and I felt a great solidarity, but it was INTENSE! (I hadn't heard this was happening when I left home). After an amazing taxi driver navigated through the heart of Managua trying to find roads that weren't blocked with fires & protesters, we finally pulled up to Managua Hills. I must admit I was nervous that I was being dropped off in the right place, but as soon as I opened the cab door, there was Young, the owner to meet me with a big smile. He told me I was in the right place, and got my bag for me. He immediately asked me if I was ok and if there was anything I would like, would I like a drink? -- it's like he read my mind!! He showed me my room so I could stow my bag & told me my drink would be waiting. When I went through to the gardens in this amazing Oasis it was a complete dichotomy from what I had just been through. I was offered a tasty whiskey and was honored to sit with some beautiful, amazing people Young, Jimmy, Young's sister (Wade?) & family friend (so sorry I forgot your names) we talked for hours about the situation outside, hearing news reports occasionally and making alternative plans in case things got worse. Although my introduction to Managua was intense, sitting in the gardens at Managua Hills was one of the nicest experiences I've had at a hotel (and I travel alot). They made me feel safe, welcome and comfortable and treated me like family. My room was spotless clean, comfortable and air conditioned. The bed was so comfy and I had a terrific sleep. As I slept, Young made arrangements for me to meet my friend (who had finally made it to the airport, but had to stay in a nearby hotel for the night). The next day there was a cab to take me back to the Airport to meet my friend at 7:30 am (early as it was quiet out, protests ended and safe to go). I completely forgot to give Young any money for the snacks and whiskey he generously poured for me the night before and I didn't get a chance to say goodbye to my new friends but I hope they know how much I appreciated their company!!! Young, please tell your sister I will see her on Corn Island someday!! THANK YOU SO MUCH for your wonderful Oasis, your amazing hospitality and your beautiful hotel. I recommend this hotel completely and absolutely!!! I also plan on returning some day when I can explore Managua properly and to properly thank Young in person.…