Republica de Guatemala is a Central American country that’s bordered by Mexico and Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. Guatemala is a treasure chest of Mayan history, among other things. The mountains are exciting places to explore, so are the markets, so are the city streets.
An interesting place to visit in Guatemala is Antigua, a beautiful town that lies in the middle of three volcanoes. Those who want unusual experiences usually go to Lago de Izabal or Nebai, far-flung towns that hold a hidden Mayan village in the recesses of the Cuchumatanes Mountains. There is also the Lago de Atitlan in the Highlands waiting to be discovered.
In Guatemala, tourists can find everything Mayan. Check out the archaeological sites of El Peten and the pre-Hispanic town of Chichicastenango, where Mayan rituals have survived to the present times. The secret of the town of Santa Lucia Cotzumalguapa gives you an insight into the ancient Pipil culture, complete with heads carved from stones, rolling fields and plantations.
Guatemala isn’t the safest place to be and crimes, including armed robbery, rape and murders of tourists have been reported. Tourists vehicles have been reported as a major target of robbers, although there have also been documented robberies along the hiking trails. When in Guatemala, it pays to stay alert and watchful of the behaviors of other people. It is thus important that you avoid carrying around more money that you need. Do not wear flashy jewelry or flaunt other valuable items like digital cameras and cellular phones. And don’t walk the Guatemalan city streets alone, especially at night.
