When we first mentioned to our extended family that we were planning to visit Guatemala, people were just like "Why" or "What is there to see ?" I'm extremely happy to be able to share with our friends and family a little piece from this wonderful country. To me it was more beautiful in person than in pictures. There was not only natural beauty,the people were very welcoming, specially with our little ones.
I wish we had stayed for longer days (like an entire month) in order to explore the other side of the country, but we couldn't because of work. Nonetheless we visited the city and stayed at a wonderful hotel, Hotel Casa Santo Domingo that we found online. Without a doubt, one of the coolest hotels we have stayed at. Not only is it an ancient monastery, but it is also a museum! How much fun can that be? Seriously, waking up among altars and amazing works of art is just priceless. In this hotel "A profound respect for yesterday and today's culture prevails" there are three museums (which are completely free to guest) showcase historic 16th century pieces, and modern art by Guatemalan artists. Of course, no one comes to Antigua , Guatemala without a stop at the famous "Arch". The driver explained to us that nuns and priests used it to cross from one side of town to the other without being seen.
The Famous Arch
We take every opportunity to teach our little ones something new, even when we are on vacation.
This is one of the many churches left in ruins in Antigua.
All I can say is "Lake Atitlan" is a true paradise and one that I feel many people want to keep as a secret. Lake Atitlan is only two hours away from Antigua and the most beautiful part is that it is surrounded by volcanoes. We stayed at the beautiful Hotel Atitlan, where every morning and night the boys greeted our friend "Mr,volcano".
One of the main adventures at "Lake Atitlan" is to rent a boat and spend the day visiting the different towns (12 of them, I believe) that surround the lake. You can do a group tour or rent a private boat ( which we did because it is extremely cheap $80 USD). Please keep in mind the boat is weather permitting and believe us they are very strict when it comes to this rule.
We visited "Santa Catarina Palopo" the ladies from the town offered to dress me with their traditional outfit. I was flattered that they offer and of coursed said "yes". This was definitely a bit of culture shock trip for our oldest son, he thought by me dressing like the locals we were going to stay here forever. We visited a ceramic factory and a church. We saw how they wash their clothes on the lake due to no water pipes on the village. It was definitely something new for our boys, specially seeing little children helping their mothers wash their clothes.
Next we continued to "San Lucas Toliman" where the boys took their first Tuk Tuk ride EVER! Needless to say it became a highlight of the trip for them . The driver offered to explain with a lot of pride the many places around his town. We visited a local market where we met artisans. We have a tradition, that every time we visit a new country we bring something from that country for our house so went shopping here. Ric collects masks and I love angels or religious figures. This time we bought two little angels of wood. Always remember to bargain and have fun.
Here are more pics of the beauty of this hidden side of Guatemala. To anyone who has any doubts about the beauty of this place, is absolutely magical and believe us you won't regret visiting this beautiful country.
Our view from the dining room
Good morning or night Mr. Volcano
Our view from our room, our first and last view everyday.
Our tradition continues, when we visit a new city or destination. Jump of joy, feeling blessed. This is our family, we are full of energy and eager to jump on the adventure.
Enjoy the moment and pause. (This photo was take with GoPro)
If you have any questions about this blog or any of the destinations we have visited, feel free to send us a message and please subscribe, we have more blogs coming soon. Have a wonderful journey.
Sending much love from our family to you.
