The republic of Guatemala is slightly smaller than the State of Tennessee, but there is a great deal packed into this small package. There are ruins, culture, shopping and more to be seen.
Getting to Guatemala
Guatemala is easily reached by flights from Miami, Houston, Panama and other major hubs. Traveling overland is also possible: Guatemala shares borders with Mexico, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador. Citizens of most nations do not need visas to stay up to 90 days in Guatemala.
Fabulous Colonial Cities Worth a Visit
Antigua is a charming colonial city only an hour from Guatemala City. It features lively nightlife, classy hotels, much to see and do and some great souvenir shopping. On the shores of Lake Atitlan is the city of Panajachel, known as a laid-back place to relax for a few days while exploring the breathtakingly beautiful lake. Chichicastenango is a traditional town in the north, home to a world-renowned textile market. Many travelers like to go to Quetzaltenango, a large city in the highlands, to learn Spanish.
Great Traditional Guatemalan Food
Visitors to Guatemala will want to sample some local specialties. Pepian is a traditional stew made with chicken or turkey and a variety of spices. In the highlands, don’t miss Kak’ik, a traditional dish made with turkey. Stuffed peppers or “chile rellenos” are popular everywhere: the stuffing is usually ground beef, vegetables and spices. Don’t skip dessert: Guatemalans are fond of sweets and make excellent cakes, puddings, and other desserts.
Ancient Mayan Ruins in Guatemala
Present-day Guatemala was once the center of the mighty Maya Empire, and there are many archaeological sites worth a visit. Tikal, in the northern jungles of the Petén Province, is the most impressive: it was once one of the most important cities in the Empire. Easier to reach are the ruins of Iximché, just outside of Tecpán, and Zaculeu, near the city of Huehuetenango. In the eastern part of the country is Quiriguá, a smaller site but well-known for the quality of the stelae, or standing stonecarvings. There is any number of smaller sites scattered around the country, particularly in the Peten jungles near Tikal.
Not all ruins are Mayan sites: the city of Antigua was destroyed by earthquakes in the eighteenth century, and it is still possible to visit many of the toppled churches and convents.
Before You Go to Guatemala
Guatemala is a modern country and it is easy to get basic necessities like shampoo, toothbrushes, etc. just about anywhere. Those with prescription medicines should bring them. Bring film or digital camera memory cards, as Guatemala is very picturesque. It is a good idea to sign up for an international calling plan like Skype, which allows for free or very cheap calls back home.
Most of all, bring a smile and an open mind for making new friends in the Land of Eternal Spring!
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