Granada is a city filled with centuries of history and is a must-see for anyone visiting Nicaragua. With just 25 guest rooms located directly on Granada’s Parque Centrale, this grand hotel offers the perfect combination of intimacy and luxury (the building was a private home, which explains the rooms’ large size and high ceilings). Book a room with a balcony to get the full sense of the city.

Once an artisan co-op building, Tribal Hotel is the brainchild of childhood friends Yvan Cussigh and Jean-Marc Houmard. They're veterans of such New York hot spots as 60 Thompson, Bond Street and Indochine, so naturally, a cool city vibe reigns at this joint project. Upon entering the classic barred iron doors of the hotel’s white washed exterior, it is immediately apparent that this is not another traditional colonial hotel to add to old-world Granada’s list. Instead, this is a mini urban oasis that only adds to Granada’s age old charm.

Each of the hotel’s five Premium rooms and two Junior Suites are uniquely decorated with sophisticated artifacts from across the globe (think kilims from Turkey, graphic prints, gnarled driftwood, black and white Kenyan fabric and decorative animal skulls), but it is Tribal’s courtyard that steals the show. The pool is ideal for a dip post-touring and at night, the courtyard transforms into a romantically cozy, candlelit terraza, perfect for enjoying one of the hotel’s jalapeño martinis with your fellow guests. While the rooms are not large, each room has a terrace or balcony that provides additional space.

Like most hotels in Nicaragua, five-star service and amenities are not to be expected, however at Tribal this is made up for with friendly, personal service from the small yet dedicated staff. There is no gym, spa or restaurant but the staff offer recommendations and help with setting up touring in and around Granada. Included in the room rate is a delicious breakfast that is whipped up just for when you wake and can be enjoyed on your private terrace.