I think any time one visits a new place, they leave as a new, likely improved, version of themselves. At the very least changed in some way for the better. Seeing the world, other cultures, and experiencing a strangers’ way of life can do wonders for one’s own outlook on one’s own.
It was my first visit to Guatemala. And as I stood in the sun returning the rental car in the exact same place as I was just 7 days prior, I felt an odd sense of deja-vu. I was the same, yet different for having been exposed to an entirely new place. Guatemala is a fantastic country and here are just a few takeaways from the little time I spent there.
1. The country is mountainous! Guatemala is home to a whopping 37 volcanos! The views from the top of one mountain looking out at the rows and rows of mountains in the distance are absolutely out of this world. It doesn’t even seem real at times!
2. The roads are steep! With mountainous terrain comes mountainous roads. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve been on roads as steep as these. We once went down a hill in small town and I couldn’t help but think this must be in the guiness book of world records! Don’t get stuck behind a large truck going uphill because you will be going at a snail’s pace. Be sure to get comfortable passing on single lanes!
3. The people are super sweet — some of the kindest individuals and friendliest faces I’ve ever met. Although, I probably say that about nearly every place I visit. I think it goes to show that as a whole, human kind is kind.
4. The street tacos are so, SOOO worth a stop. They are fast, cheap, and most importantly, delicious. I mean, if you don’t like tacos, are you even human?
5. Hotels are expensive. We weren’t expecting to pay 300 quetzales per night for a room, aka $39! (Ok, so it’s not expensive by US standards but still more than we thought!) Prices would vary only marginally but the type of room you received could be vastly different.
6. Rental car prices are the cheapest we’ve ever seen! For 7 days we spent a total of $180, and that includes the optional $80 third party insurance which wasn’t even mandatory. Otherwise it would have been just $100! Can $14 a day for a rental car ever be topped?
7. Birding here is a stair master workout! Again, with mountains and volcanos come steep trails. But the birds are worth it! Horned Guan is basically a unicorn. And Goldman’s Warbler is by far the best looking of the Yellow-rumped trilogy.
8. The Mayans knew what they were doing when they built their cities. Tikal is 100% worth a stop. Appreciating ancient civilizations can bring you right back to reality. We are but a blip in time.
9. We spent a total of 10 days in the country and spent $926 for two people, making Guatemala a very affordable place to do independently.
10. There’s always more to see! Go check Guatemala out for yourself!
