Antigua
For most visitors this small, but enchanting city is the first big highlight when arriving in Guatemala. It is much smaller and much more ‘visitor friendly’ than its big brother, Guatemala-City. You’ll directly notice the lovely houses painted in all the different colors of the rainbow, small café’s on every corner. You’ll be enticed by the charm and tranquility of this town and you may even catch yourself thinking “I wish I could live here.” Antigua truly is the perfect place to adjust to the Guatemalan life.
When you arrive here, arrange two things on your first day: organize some Spanish lessons and get a place to stay. The lessons are arranged easily, since the town has a good offer of with Spanish schools and they are all glad to have you. As a place to stay of course you could stay at a guest house, but it is recommended to stay at home with a Guatemalan family so you can practice your Spanish a bit. Your school can probably help you with finding a family, who in addition would be happy to feed you with some local dishes every night – another reason why it’s worth to stay at a local family.
However, if you value your privacy and want to go out for dinner, stay at one of the Casa’s de Santa Lucía (yes, there is a Santa Lucia I, II and III!) at Alameda Santa Lucía 5, Alamada Santa Lucía Norte 21 or 6 Av Norte 43A. All these hostels are located at some of the more quiet areas of Antigua and you will surely come to appreciate this since every morning firework are lit for yet another birthday, anniversary or wedding...
Make sure to visit climb the active Volcano Pacaya whilst in Antigua.
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