Guatemala

Guatemala, you have blown my mind!

Our journey from Mexico to Guatemala began with an unexpected nine-hour delay, leaving us in the dark with minimal communication from the airline staff. When we finally boarded, it was on a well-worn turboprop plane—the only option available—but it added a rustic charm to our adventure.

Guatemala City: A Brief Luxurious Layover

Touching down in Guatemala City, the heightened police presence was immediately noticeable, underscoring the city's reputation for safety concerns. We quickly secured an Uber to our hotel, where we spent less than 12 hours. Despite the short stay, the experience was nothing short of luxurious. Our high-rise accommodation boasted a bakery on the ground floor and offered stunning daytime views of a nearby volcano. We were so impressed that we booked the same hotel for our return trip to Mexico City.

Antigua: Spa Indulgence and Culinary Delights

Due to our flight delay, we had to adjust our plans, postponing our visit to Lake Atitlán to Christmas Day. Instead, we headed straight to Antigua. Navigating the city's notorious traffic, especially on the ring road, was a test of patience. Once in Antigua, we checked into a spa hotel for a single night—a splurge that was worth every penny. After dropping off our bags, we booked a spa session and set out to find a laundromat and some food. Returning to the hotel, we immersed ourselves in the spa's amenities: a steamy steam room, a bubbling jacuzzi, and a rejuvenating sauna.

Later, we ventured to the main square and stumbled upon a local eatery. If you ever find yourself in Guatemala, I highly recommend trying the grilled chicken—it's on par with the best Piri Piri I've tasted. For around 30 quetzales, we enjoyed a generous serving accompanied by salad, potatoes, tortillas, and tamarind tea.

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The "Prison" Stay and Solo Wanderings

The next day, we moved from our spa retreat to more modest accommodations, which we jokingly dubbed "the prison." The room was part of a larger house, sectioned off for guests, but it was cramped for two people. The owner, a friendly man, even offered us his own room as he had plans for the evening, but we politely declined.

My girlfriend embarked on a hike up Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes, leaving me to my own devices. Without her meticulous planning, I felt somewhat adrift. I spent the day meandering around, passing time in McDonald's and Starbucks, and realizing how much I relied on her for our daily itineraries.

Lake Atitlán: Scenic Beauty and Adrenaline Rushes

After Antigua, we made our way to Lake Atitlán. The journey included a bumpy boat ride that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes and mountains. We spent our days exploring the various towns dotting the lake's edge, sampling local cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant culture.

Seeking adventure, we decided to go paragliding. As someone with a fear of heights, this was a daunting endeavor. However, once airborne, the experience was unparalleled. The panoramic views stretched to the horizon, serving as a humbling reminder of our place in the world. It was a fitting and exhilarating conclusion to our time at Lake Atitlán.

El Paredón: Beach Vibes and Hostel Life

Our next destination was El Paredón, a locale of mixed experiences. The natural beauty of the area was undeniable, and the locals were as hospitable as ever. However, adhering to a tight budget led us to a party hostel—a first for me and, admittedly, not my preferred lodging style. The constant activity was overwhelming, but having my girlfriend there made it manageable.

Despite the less-than-ideal accommodations, we enjoyed some excellent meals and spent a day at a nearby beach club, indulging in the serene coastal environment. In hindsight, I would recommend allocating a bit more of your budget for accommodations in El Paredón. There are several upscale hostels in the area that offer mixed dorms, which might be suitable if you're comfortable with less privacy.

Return to Guatemala City and Onward

After a stint in El Salvador, we returned to Guatemala City for a brief overnight stay before catching our flight back to Mexico City. Our earlier choice of hotel once again provided a comfortable and luxurious respite, making our short stay enjoyable.

Reflecting on our Guatemalan adventure, it was a journey filled with unexpected challenges, breathtaking landscapes, and memorable experiences. From the bustling streets of Guatemala City to the tranquil shores of Lake Atitlán, each moment added a unique chapter to our travel story.