GUATEMALA, "LAND OF ETERNAL SPRING"

 

By Clay Larroy

 

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

 

Travel to Guatemala

Overview

 

The heart of ancient Mayan culture lives on in Guatemala, with a Spanish influence that blends ancient, colonial and modern eras together seamlessly. From the classical Spanish-Baroque architecture in Antigua, exemplified by
such pieces as the famous fountain, Fuente de Pescado, to the legendary structural wonders of the Mayan temple complex Tikal, each step along Guatemala's quaint cobbled streets and jungle trails leads further into the distant past.

 

As with many of its Central American neighbors, Guatemala has held onto local customs and cultures while developing its urban hubs to meet modern tourist standards. Party in Guatemala City's business district during

warm evenings, then travel to the markets in Chichicastenango on a Sunday, a meeting place for traditional artisans and hub for local produce that is bound to entice all travelers with the sensory delicacies of Guatemala's verdant forests, farms and plantations.

 

Adventurous travelers can hike up Volcan San Pedro, just behind the famous picturesque resort village of San Pedro La Laguna but should note that a local guide is considered essential to conquering the dormant volcano's peak. While the adrenaline junkies are relishing Guatemala's many peaks, other travelers can enjoy a spate of urban sightseeing. The country is also home to a wealth of ancient artefacts and numerous historical sites so history buffs will be in their element. The country has a strong tourism industry and travelers looking for an in-depth and immersive experience into authentic Central American culture should lace up their boots and pack their bags, for they need look no further than Guatemala.

 

Climate in Guatemala

 

Guatemala's climate is lovely year-round and is generally hot throughout the county, making travel possible at any time. The rainy season is generally from May to November, with average temperatures of 72°F (22°C). Climate
varies more due to altitude than season; however, it is easier to see the country in the dry season, which runs from November to April and is an ideal time to explore the mountains, rainforests and volcanoes in the country. There are some regional variations, with the highlands, including Guatemala City and Antigua, experiencing less rainfall than the coast, and slightly colder temperatures at night.

 

Health Notes when travelling to Guatemala

 

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Guatemala and travelers are advised to take the latest medical advice at least three weeks prior to departure. Malaria is prevalent in the low-lying areas outside
Guatemala City. Dengue fever is endemic and the Zika virus can be contracted, so strict insect-bite protection measures must be taken. A yellow fever certificate is required from travelers entering the country from infected
areas. Hepatitis A and B, and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as well as an MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) update. Visitors should be careful what they eat and stick to bottled water, or boil all water before drinking if bottled water is unavailable. Guatemalan hospitals are unlikely to give medical treatment unless the patient has medical insurance or can pay up front. Good travel insurance is therefore essential. State-funded hospitals are best avoided and travelers should only use private clinics where possible. All medication should be accompanied with a signed and dated letter from a doctor explaining what the medication is and why it is needed.

 

Safety Notes when travelling to Guatemala

 

The rate of violent crime in Guatemala is exceptionally high. There has also been a relatively high rate of violent attacks on tourists, especially in remote places and in the capital, Guatemala City, specifically after dark. Visitors

need to be particularly vigilant in the central Zone 1 of Guatemala City where most of the cheap hotels and bus terminals are, and in all parts of the city at night. Tourists arriving at Guatemala City airport and travelling to hotels in the business districts have been targeted, so visitors should be extremely alert when leaving the airport. Protest may arise without warning and should be avoided if possible. Pick-pocketing and petty theft are common in tourist areas and market places.

 

Many robberies take place on the cheaper buses when travelling on the tourist routes from Guatemala City to Antigua, and from Antigua to Panajachel, keep all belongings close at hand. There has been reported incidents of attacks, including the sexual assault of female passengers on buses during the day on main routes. Hold-ups by armed gangs occur frequently on city and long distance public buses. Visitors are advised to avoid them if possible. Armed robberies on minor roads around Lake Atitlan have taken place and visitors are advised to use the boat services between towns on the lakeshore. There have also been armed attacks on tourists at Tikal and on the approach road from Flores to Tikal.

 Guatemala's rainy season between April and November usually brings about heavy rain and flooding, mudslides and hurricanes. These mudslides have claimed the lives of many people in recent years and it is best to exercise extreme caution when travelling to areas known for heavy rains and mudslides. Guatemala has active volcanoes, so it is important to always be aware of any volcanic activity

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

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