ABOUT GUATEMALA
With 37 volcanoes, 23 different languages, 19 different ecosystems, and countless Mayan and colonial ruins, it’s no wonder that Guatemala, a country no bigger than Tennessee, is mentioned four times in the #1 bestseller, 1000 Places to See Before You Die .
Guatemala’s most beautiful and historic city, Antigua is like having a little bit of Europe, just south of the border, but at a fraction of the cost. Plus, with daily direct flights from New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, Atlanta and Dallas, getting to Guatemala is easy and in less time than it takes to fly to Europe or Hawaii.
ABOUT OLD
Nestled between three impressive volcanoes in Central America, Antigua, Guatemala is one of the oldest and most beautiful colonial cities in the world. This majestic 400-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most visited city in Central America and its popularity continues to grow, as recently highlighted by its “TOP City” winner at Wanderlust’s Travel Awards 2009, beating out over 600 other popular cities. world destinations.
In Antigua, travelers explore the ruins, museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shops that are dotted along the famous cobblestone streets of this former Guatemalan capital. Centrally located, Antigua is also the perfect base from which to take short trips to other popular destinations such as Lake Atitlan, the Pacific coast, and the world-famous Mayan temples of Tikal. Known as the “land of eternal spring,” Antigua has an average humidity-free temperature of 75 degrees year-round, so it’s never a bad time to visit.
So whether you prefer a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through this century-old city, or a day at the open-air market discovering incredible handcrafted treasures, or an exciting journey through the treetops on a zip line… whatever Get Inspired and Renewed is likely to be found in Antigua…
ABOUT LAKE ATITLÁN
Perhaps it happens when you’re gazing at towering volcanoes disappearing into the distance as you cross an ancient crystal blue lake on your way to discover your next Mayan lakeside village. Or maybe it strikes you when you are admiring the rising sun on a morning in a place so beautiful that it takes your breath away. Here, in this magical place, it happens: you disconnect and then reconnect with something that deeply enriches and renews.
Considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlán is an impressive natural wonder that has seduced travelers for centuries. Surrounded by three towering volcanoes, the crystal blue Lake Atitlán is home to more than a dozen lakeside towns. In many of the towns the Mayan culture still prevails and traditional dress is still worn.
Complementing the traditional towns are some “original tourist towns” like Panajachel, San Marcos and San Pedro, where travelers from all over the world meet, mix and have fun. Atitlán is truly a unique wonder of the world, or as a recent visitor described it: Lake Atitlán is like having too much of a good thing! A short distance from the lake is the world famous open market of Chichicastenango. In Chichi, tourists get a glimpse into another world filled with Mayan rituals, dances, processions, and of course, an endless selection of spectacular and authentic Guatemalan handicrafts.
ABOUT TIKAL
The undisputed center of ancient Mayan society, Tikal is located in the heart of the rainforest of northern Guatemala, making this sacred place the home of Mayan history, as well as home to hundreds of species of monkeys, toucans and parakeets.
Tikal National Park, a protected area of some 370 square kilometers, is a mystical and moving experience for visitors, highlighted by the magnificent pyramidal ruins of the lost Mayan world. For years, visitors from around the world have come to Tikal to transport their minds, bodies, and spirits back in time as they watch the dawn of a new day while surrounded by the ancient Temples of Tikal.
ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA – RESOURCES AND ACCOMMODATION
* One of Antigua’s most beautiful and distinctive features are the spectacular 400-year-old ruins that can be found in almost every corner of this enchanting, centuries-old city. Many of these ruins can be rented out for various private events, making any party, gathering, ceremony, or wedding memorable.
* Casa Santa Domingo, a 5-star hotel built within the ruins, is the most famous and impressive hotel in Antigua. This hotel deserves serious consideration by anyone planning a trip to Antigua.
* Another luxury hotel in Antigua that has recently opened is El Convento. This hotel is best described as a boutique version of the Hotel Casa Santa Domingo.
* For those looking for more of an “outdoor natural garden” experience, check out the beautiful and serene Quinta de Las Flores.
* So whether you prefer luxury with history like Casa Santo Domingo or the natural beauty of Quinta de Las Flores, both types of accommodation are available in Antigua (plus everything else).
LAKE ATITLAN – RESOURCES AND ACCOMMODATION
* Stunningly beautiful, serene Lake Atitlan… a number of new boutique hotels and services have opened on the lake over the last few years. The following are some of the favorites:
* Casa Palopo is an elegant hotel on the lake that was recently named by Conde Nast as one of the best hotels in the world. The rooms are sumptuous, as is the gourmet restaurant and the terrace overlooking the lake. The 9-room gem comes with a patio or terrace for each room, king or queen beds, Aveda bath products, Italian linens, and a mini bar. Your room has a stunning view of the lake. Oh, and finally, they have two helicopter landing pads so you can FLY from Guate City airport directly to this amazing hotel on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlan!
* Villa Sumaya Hotel is probably the most famous full service hotel and Retreat Center on the lake. It is perfectly located on the shores of Lake Atitlán and, for years, has been home to numerous tourists with a special dedication to yoga, meditation and massage practitioners.
* Lomas de Tzununa is a “high altitude” option on Lake Atitlan that has views that simply can’t be beat. Sitting on top of a mountain overlooking the lake, Lomas de Tzununa’s invites its guests to some of the most impressive views of the lake.
* Isla Verde is another beautiful option. This charming boutique hotel is also committed to being Eco-Friendly and Eco-Chic.
* For free time, Lake Atitlán offers a variety of activities ranging from exploring the Mayan villages on the lake to zip-lining through the lakeside valleys, boating and kayaking. Many on the lake also prefer to simply ‘drink the drama’ of Lake Atitlan while dining on the incredible cuisine found at Ven Aca.
TIKAL – RESOURCES AND ACCOMMODATION
Seeing the tops of the ancient Mayan pyramids peeking through the jungle canopy at sunrise is a sight every soul should see in their lifetime. Such an environment is the perfect place to reflect on each and every one of the mysteries and magic of the universe.
The Jungle Lodge is just a few minutes’ walk from the world-famous Tikal Ruins. Tucked away in the deep jungle of northern Guatemala, guests here enjoy an extraordinary educational and cultural experience while enjoying the natural wonder of being in a remote, pristine jungle.
With a pool, great restaurant and cabin accommodations, Jungle Lodge is the perfect setting from which to explore and enjoy the Mayan ruins as well as the spectacular jungle, wildlife and bird life that surrounds them.
SIDE TRAVEL
For guests interested in extending their trips, there are plenty of great options. Many guests add a few days to their trip so they can explore the world-famous ruins of ancient Tikal. Other guests choose to head to one of the two oceans that border Guatemala.
On the Pacific side, you can deep sea fish for sailfish and marlin or surf in El Salvador. On the Caribbean side, you can sail around the offshore islands of Belize. Whatever travel options interest you, they are easily arranged.
