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Guatemala is understood for a lot of issues; volcanoes, the traditional citadel of Tikal, a modestly heat local weather and colonial structure of Antigua.
It additionally boasts a low price of residing, which attracts many expats to Guatemala trying to make their hard-earned money go additional.
However Guatemala whereas Guatemala has its many advantageous qualities, it additionally has its drawbacks, which is why we’ve ready this information on the professionals and cons of visiting Guatemala in order that anybody considering of visiting right here could make an knowledgeable resolution about whether or not it’s proper for them.
Whether or not you’re trying to develop into an expat in Guatemala otherwise you’re trying to journey right here, we hope these professionals and cons offer you an thought of what it’s like to go to right here.
Professionals of Visiting Guatemala
Ever the optimists, let’s start with the professionals of Guatemala and among the causes you could wish to go to.
1. Straightforward to get to from North America
Attending to Guatemala from the USA in all fairness straightforward and handy, with numerous journey choices accessible.
The simplest and commonest approach to attain Guatemala from the USA is by air, as Guatemala has refurbished its worldwide airports to accommodate flights from the U.S. and different areas.
Numerous airways fly to Guatemala, together with United Airways, JetBlue, Spirit Airways, and others, so you could find reasonably priced flights in addition to loads of choices.
You too can discover dependable bus companies like Ticabus, which you’ll take from neighboring international locations corresponding to Honduras and Belize. Learn these recommendations on the right way to discover low cost flights.
2. A lot of cultural points of interest
Guatemala has so many cultural points of interest to discover. For one, the town of Antigua, a colonial metropolis, is without doubt one of the primary causes to go to the nation. It captivates anybody who visits right here with its elegant ruins of conquistadors’ convents and cathedrals, providing a glimpse into the nation’s historical past.
Then there are the Mayan ruins of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Website which stand as a robust testomony to an historic civilization that after dominated this land.
One other cultural expertise you may have in Guatemala is a homestay. Most of the native households in rural areas open their properties to worldwide vacationers as a manner for them to study English, and likewise supply an immersive cultural expertise to vacationers.
Staying with an area household is a singular approach to study the tradition, and likewise present an revenue for many who can profit from it.
3. Wonderful nature
Guatemala is a haven for nature lovers. From the beautiful turquoise swimming pools of Semuc Champey to the majestic shores of Lake Atitlan nestled amidst volcanic peaks, Guatemala’s panorama is actually breathtaking.
The plush rainforests of El Peten are worthy of visiting in case you love wildlife and fowl watching, whereas the Lanquin Caves can rival these famously present in Belize.
Most of the cities in Guatemala are situated subsequent to a lake, which implies you’re by no means far-off from nature. My favorites are San Marcos la Laguna, which sits subsequent to Lake Atitlan, and Flores, which sits subsequent to the Parque Nacional Laguna de Lachuá.
And let’s not overlook the journey of climbing an energetic volcano…however extra on that later.
4. Good 12 months spherical climate
Guatemala has respectable climate all 12 months spherical, with three microclimate zones dotted throughout the nation. This implies when it’s scorching and humid within the coastal areas, you may escape to the highlands with a better altitude to get much less humidity.
The perfect time to go to Guatemala is throughout the dry season from November to March, providing nice climate. The shoulder season of October can also be a great time to go to since there are fewer crowds this time of 12 months, although it’s the tip of the wet season and boasts heavy rainfall.
The cool, dry months are from December to February, boasting clear skies and plush inexperienced landscapes.
Observe that the summer time holidays in July and August additionally draw vacationers, so count on to see numerous different vacationers in case you plan your journey for these months.
5. World class Spanish Faculties
Guatemala is without doubt one of the greatest international locations on the planet for studying Spanish as a consequence of many elements.
For one, the nation’s Spanish faculties supply immersive language experiences the place college students can observe what they study in real-life settings, permitting college students to get a deeper appreciation for Guatemala’s tradition.
They’re additionally low cost when in comparison with costs in Europe or America, and usually the Spanish lecturers are extremely certified and skilled.
To not point out the locations you may go to to study Spanish are among the most atmospheric. From the historic allure of Antigua to the cultural hub of Quetzaltenango, college students can select from various areas to tackle their Spanish studying journey.
Listed here are recommendations on discovering a Spanish faculty in Guatemala.
6. Non secular setting of Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlán is the place to be for a mystical ambiance. It appears to draw a group of religious seekers, searching for tranquility and concord on its serene shores.
Famend as a middle for yoga and meditation, there are numerous yoga retreats and sanctuaries you may go to the place you may pursue internal concord.
San Marcos La Laguna, particularly, is hailed as a religious haven, attracting yogis, healers, and new-age philosophers.
This city hosts a plethora of workshops and lessons, encompassing practices corresponding to kirtan, shamanism, and cacao ceremonies.
The area’s sturdy ties to Mayan custom contributes to the transformative power surrounding the lake, making it an idyllic vacation spot for these searching for religious and holistic exploration.
7. Volcanoes!
Should you’re searching for extra intrepid experiences, then think about a hike up one of many volcanoes of Guatemala!
Witness awe-inspiring pure phenomena of a volcano erupting, a spectacle you can not see in lots of elements of the world.
Acatenango, standing at 13,041 ft, is a dormant volcano overlooking the very energetic Fuego. It’s a difficult hike however the charming views of neighboring Fuego’s eruptions make it value it.
In the meantime, Pacaya’s comparatively average hike is extra for the much less skilled trekkers, and permits you to witness molten lava fields and even toast marshmellows from scorching spots within the floor.
8. Low price of residing
The largest draw to Guatemala is the remarkably low price of residing, attracting budget-conscious people and expatriates in search of worth and journey.
Lodging in Guatemala is notably cheap, averaging round $2,450 per 30 days for a household of 4, however these inclined in direction of a extra modest way of life can discover an residence in quiet cities like these round Lake Atitlan for lower than $500 a month.
The typical month-to-month bills for a household of 4 are estimated to be round $2200 USD, with a single individual’s month-to-month prices at $1,000. Most facilities corresponding to water, electrical energy, gasoline and rubbish assortment are often included in rents, so that you solely want to rearrange WiFi.
General, the nation’s low price of residing is an attractive purpose to go to Guatemala if you need your cash to go additional.
9. Straightforward to attach with different foreigners
Many individuals come to Guatemala to reap the benefits of the low price of residing and top quality of life, from retirees to backpackers.
Should you keep in Antigua or different touristy cities alongside the shores of Lake Atitlan, then you’re certain to fulfill fellow vacationers and like-minded individuals to attach with.
Cons of Visiting Guatemala
And now, the downsides…listed here are among the cons of Guatemala for worldwide guests…
1. Guatemala Metropolis is harmful
Upon my arrival in Guatemala Metropolis, I used to be instantly involved about my security. Principally as a result of I had heard horror tales, but in addition as a result of I met an area who helped me discover my lodging who advised me tales that shook me to my core.
I additionally confronted this hazard head on when me and a buddy of mine got here nose to nose with two robbers on bikes one night.
We escaped by heading right into a restaurant diagonally throughout the road, who’s homeowners closed the large metallic gate to guard us (and them) and referred to as the police who confirmed up 5 minutes later.
The robber mentioned to me “Buenes noches, dame tus chivas.” Nicely, to me Chivas is a model of Scotch and a Mexican soccer/soccer staff.
Apparently, in Guatemalan slang, chivas is similar as cosas, or issues. So he was telling me to provide him my issues. It was fairly scary.
Apart from Guatemala Metropolis although, I didn’t really feel unsafe. The primary touristy areas are fairly secure for vacationers and solely petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in case you let your guard down.
2. The healthcare system wants enchancment
The healthcare system in Guatemala isn’t nice. There are three primary sectors; public hospitals, personal hospitals, and personal non-profit hospitals.
You will get medical insurance as an expat in Guatemala, which can imply you may go to the personal hospitals (that are significantly better geared up and cleaner) must you want any medical care.
Nevertheless, in case you want any surgical procedures or extra critical medical sicknesses handled, you’re in all probability higher going again dwelling…
Security Wing is a good choice for journey insurance coverage for expats and nomads. Click on right here for choices and costs.
3. English is just not broadly spoken
In Guatemala, they converse Spanish, and it’s Spanish with an accent so it’s totally different from different Spanish talking international locations.
Exterior of touristy areas, that’s all they converse. In truth, in some rural areas, they’ve their very own language and dialects, and talking Spanish you’ve realized out of your Guatemalan Spanish College could even be confirmed ineffective.
English is just not broadly spoken within the nation and also you’ll solely discover English audio system in the principle cities corresponding to Antigua. Should you’re not planning to study Spanish in Guatemala, this may be difficult.
4. Work permits required for long-term keep
Anybody can keep in Guatemala for as much as 90 days on a vacationer visa, however if you wish to lengthen and keep longer, it may be a little bit of a bureaucratic nightmare.
When you have a job in Guatemala, corresponding to an English trainer job, the corporate will type your visa for you.
Nevertheless, in case you’re a digital nomad or trying to take up residence for retirement, or don’t plan on discovering work, then it may be troublesome acquiring a visa.
Ultimate Ideas
In the long run, I had a good time in Guatemala and I’d return in a heartbeat. What occurred to me may occur anyplace on the planet.
I select to recollect Guatemala for its good individuals, particularly the nicest Guatemalan on the planet who helped me discover my manner upon my arrival to Guatemala Metropolis.
It’s definitely one in all my favourite locations in Central America, and price visiting if you’re searching for someplace to go to after Mexico or Belize. Or, maybe Costa Rica? Listed here are professionals and cons to residing in Costa Rica and the very best issues to do in Costa Rica.
Bio: Adam Pervez left the 9-5 cubicle and took the plunge right into a happier and more healthy life and hasn’t appeared again since. He blogs often at Happiness Plunge, a weblog about discovering happiness in a digital nomad way of life. You possibly can comply with his adventures by way of his Fb web page.
Supply: Breaking Travel News
