Guatemala, known as the country of eternal spring, possesses the most developed economy in Central America, according to the World Bank. This growing nation provides a variety of adventures and breathtaking experiences that you must experience at least once. Here are the top reasons why Guatemala should be your next tropical getaway.
Cheap
First of all, the price. Many people travel to Mexico for its beautiful weather and lovely beaches. However, no one considers a much better deal that’s close by that offers just the same, even more. The flights tend to be very cheap throughout the year. In some airlines, it is possible to travel from Miami, Florida to Guatemala City for $400 or less. There sure are many affordable options to choose from any part of the world!
Nothing but one of the best coffees in the world
Latin America does many things high, and one of those is coffee. Guatemala is ranked on the top 10 coffee producing countries in the world according to The World Bank. It currently is one of the many sellers to companies like Starbucks, Costa, and much more. This country is filled with delicious and freshly brewed coffee coming directly from the mountains and volcanoes. There are many opportunities to tour coffee plantations and get to see how it is processed and prepared to be sent all over the world. There’s nothing like sipping one of the best coffees in the world surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Surrounded by breathtaking views
Self-explanatory.
Mayan Ruins
Tikal is a national park with Mayan pyramids and temples. Here you’ll get the chance to hike one of the tallest pyramids in the world, yes, much bigger than those in Egypt. Visiting these monuments is an opportunity of a lifetime due to the extent trip one must take but worth it. These jaw-dropping pyramids are located in the middle of a jungle. One may find some Mayan remains and statues too. There are tons of ancient ruins to visit and discover here in Tikal and El Mirador, which is currently still being examined and excavated.
Colorful towns
Colorful colonial towns at every corner. Antigua Guatemala translates to Old Guatemala. This unique town used to be Guatemala’s capital many years ago, situated on the outskirts of a volcano. This little town possesses one of a kind landscapes, surrounded by active volcanoes, full of a variety of restaurants, and small nightlife. This is the place to go if you want to learn Spanish or teach English to locals. Restaurants vary from healthy and organic, to Japanese, Italian and local cuisine – a little bit for everyone!
Food
Here you will find world-renowned chefs from Guatemala or all over the world managing their amazing restaurants throughout the city and little towns too. There are countless rooftops to grab a drink and watch the sunset, and unique restaurants that provide their costumers experience rather than only food. There’s nothing like drinking a refreshing Michelada (bloody Mary beer, sort of) and eating ceviche while enjoying the beautiful weather all year long.
Lakes
Lake Atitlán was ranked one of the most beautiful lakes in the world along with Lake Como in Italy. There’s no other place where you can be surrounded by colorful villages and massive volcanoes at every corner; it is truly magical. Here you can practice yoga with this landscape, receive a relaxing massage while enjoying the view, go scuba diving and discover Mayan ruins, go bar hopping in the little towns or just lay in a hammock with a drink in hand and a good book.
Vibrant textiles
The colorful textiles of Guatemala are a very impressive representation of this country’s culture. In local markets, you will find great handwoven textiles with lots of colors, textures, patterns to choose from. These textiles are well known around the world, and famous designers have incorporated these designs into their products, which have shown to be a success. You’ll find it hard resisting on buying these products to take back home, trust me.
Adventure at every corner
This country possesses a volcano, Tajumulco, reaching the highest peak in Central America. There are three active volcanoes that one can hike and have the opportunity to get very close to the lava. These tall mountains and volcanoes serve a purpose besides providing fantastic views.They are also places where the top-rated coffee in the world is planted due to its high altitude and fertile soil. This means that most of what supports this country’s economy are the coffee exports around the world. Besides hiking volcanoes, there are opportunities for rafting, rappel, zip lining from mountain to mountain and much more!
Climate
Guatemala’s weather averages on low 70F for most of the year. With sunny days and in winter averaging in low 60F. This is because Guatemala is located close to the equator but has enough altitude to balance out the warm weather with moderate temperatures. Yes, you can get a nice tan and not sweat all day long. Perfect for wearing skirts, or cardigan whenever you feel like!
Opportunities to help
Countries with low income, there is always need for help. Here you may find organizations that are currently assisting in more impoverished rural areas in Guatemala that you can join. Besides discovering new cities and natural beauties, you can also help and give back to the world!
Safety
People from all over the world have heard about Guatemala not being a safe place to travel. But be sure that if anything happens, it is improbable. However, the most important thing is to be street smart in these cases. Don’t take unnecessary and valuable objects with you and don’t trust anyone. But it is mostly about learning how to work your way in the country. If you are unsure and want to check out some safety tips, you can check that out at Lonely Planet.