SETTING

Safety Concerns while traveling in Guatemala?

 

Perhaps the most beautiful town in Guatemala, is the old capital of Antigua, at left. Participants who wish to arrive early, or stay a few days after the retreat, are encouraged to consider the World Heritage site for their stay. Nice hotels can be reserved for $35/night and very nice hotels are also available.

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Guatemala is a small country, just South of the Mexico border. It is known for its bright flowers and colorful textiles. 20 indigenous Mayan tribes still adhere to tradition and wear their handwoven and elaborately embroidered traditional clothing.

Lake Atitlan is considered by many, including Aldous Huxley, to be the most beautiful lake in the world. It is situated in the Guatemalan highlands surrounded by 4 volcanoes. Temperatures vary from highs in the low 70’s to mid 50’s at night. This mysteriously deep lake varies in color from emerald green, to turquoise, to sky blue.

Water taxis run on the hour and connect the Twelve Indian villages that surround the lake, each with its own distinctive personality: Santa Cruz, perched high above the lake on cobblestone foot paths is home to 2,000 Kaqchikel Indians; San Marcos attracts international healers and spiritual seekers; San Pedro draws a primarily European backpacking crowd; Santiago is noted for its weaving and woodworking cooperatives; and Panajachel is the commercial center of the lake, with hotels, boutiques, restaurants, banks, nightclubs and the children and grandchildren of the original hippies who sought out Panajachel in the '60s. Rent a private boat for day trips. Hiking is spectacular and kayaks are available for our use.