WALLY – GRANADA, NICARAGUA

The quaint Iraqui expat

Once again, we got lucky with our host and enjoyed listening to Wally’s stories after everyone has left the restaurant. Wally, who was born in Iraq, first came to Nicaragua 11 years ago. When you first meet him, the gentle soul seems unimposing, but as so often, the first perception is misleading. Wally is actually an all-or-nothing kind of person. He follows his intuition and always gives it his everything. Listening to his path in Nicaragua was impressive. He originally came to Nicaragua on vacation but was captivated by the openness of the people and ended up moving his life from Bagdad to Nicaragua.
Contrary to his home country, he appreciates the “everyone is the same” mentality. He loves that the Nicaraguans are so open and eager to make friends. Wally opened, developed, and nurtured opportunities and left them without regret to follow a new calling. He is the type of man who quietly, without a fuss builds impressive things from the ground. We loved the matter-of-fact mentality of him. For us, it’s often challenging to follow our intuition, to let go and just trust ourselves. Most importantly, we usually get too attached, don’t feel comfortable with too much change. We tend to be scared to let go. Wally, on the other hand, seems untouched by those relentless thoughts and worries. He reminds us a little of a quiet, slightly melancholic warrior.
To us, this makes him immensely special. We enjoyed his aura of inner peace a lot.

What’s essential to Wally?

Wally believes that every human being is the same. To him, only one thing matters the chemistry between people. He wants to live in peace with his surrounding, so it’s essential to him make friends and establish a supportive network no matter where he lives. He cherishes his economic independence, which allows him to take the rush out his daily life and form business decisions freely.

What does happiness mean to Wally?

Waking up every morning and breathing in Granada’s hot air. The interactions, deep friendships, and vibes of the Nicas are a true source of happiness for him. To put it simply: Happiness to him is living in Nicaragua.

Would he like to live in another country?

No, Nicaragua is and will always remain his heart’s home. However, recently, a stroke fate has struck Wally’s life again. With the sudden death of his father, he has inherited properties in Iraq. Of course, Wally is ready to tackle the challenge head-on. Once again, he is selling his business to move back to Iraq temporary. However, he is sure to return to Nicaragua once he has settled his family’s affairs

What does Wally recommend to tourists?

Nicaragua’s people are one of a kind. They are incredibly open-minded and friendly. Don’t be bigheaded when they try to interact with you. Be open and make friends! Nicaragua might be one of the poorest countries in the world, but the people here have so much to give. So, be open and respectful!