How to Blend in Like a Local in Guatemala

Divine Carolines seeking the newest hot spot in Central America should look no further than Guatemala. Since the end of its civil war in 1996, Guatemala has become a gem on the travel trail as visitors journey to discover this picturesque country and familiarize themselves with its culture. It is easy and inexpensive to get from one location to the next in order to experience this diversity which includes swamps and jungles, tropical plains, beautiful lakes and thirty seven volcanoes! Here are a few insights that will ensure that your trip through ‘The Land of Eternal Spring’ will be one to remember.

Experience Guatemala’s Attractions

Tikal  Much like the Egyptians and the Romans, the Mayan people were way ahead of their time when they constructed the temples of Tikal in honor of the Mayan rulers and deities. The temples and hieroglyphics here demonstrate not only architectural genius, but also show traces of a civilization far more advanced than many ever believed.

Lake Atitlan  Above and beyond Mayan spiritual beliefs, there is something mystical about Lake Atitlan that makes visitors want to forget their itineraries and kick back in a hammock. Today there remain several Mayan communities living along Lake Atitlan's shores, as well as a more recent influx of expats who have settled here to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Lake Atitlan is one of those places whose beauty cannot be described by words or photos.

Chichicastenango About an hour's drive from Panajachel, Chichicastenango (known locally as 'Chichi') has become famous for its large and colourful marketplace that opens on Thursdays and Sundays.

Antigua Antigua’s outstanding scenery, post-colonial architecture, beautiful hotels, and fine restaurants attract both resident and visiting foreigners who have come to appreciate all that Antigua has to offer. In 1979 Antigua was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and today several foundations are hard at work to preserve and maintain the architectural treasures it holds.

Events

Semana Santa People come from all over the world for Holy Week in Antigua and it is not a disappointment—it is every bit as colorful and dramatic as it is in the pictures. You can hardly walk down the street with so much commotion from vendors selling cotton candy, toys and even knock-off Livestrong bracelets, tourists taking pictures, families enjoying the holiday, and participants making their preparations. In anticipation of this event, there is a procession in Antigua put on by a different church every Sunday from the beginning of Lent through Holy Week.