Guatemala

I had a great time. Two things I regret: 1. not having better Spanish. 2. Not having more time there!

I realized that I don’t want to be just a tourist, although it’s cool to visit new and interesting-looking places. No, I would actually like to LIVE abroad for extended periods. It’s not much of a challenge just to hang around Antigua and talk with the many (albeit international) tourists. It’s not enough (and frankly, it seems rude) to go around to the little villages and stare at people and take their picture – in fact, it can be dangerous if you’re not polite.

What a gorgeous, lush, and friendly country. Keep in mind that this is the developing world, so reliable electricity and running water are not a given everywhere. And be safe – filter your water and wash your hands often. But it’s sooooo worth a visit.

Hurray. I feel awfully priviledged to be going. I only wish I could stay longer. I’m ready to be there NOW.

I’ll have lots of pix of Lake Atitlan and Antigua’s architecture and volcanos to share with you when I get back.

But that’s ok, because we’ll be making a day trip to Lake Atitlan, which will be gorgeous.

Leaving in 2 days, I can’t wait!!!

I’d really like to make it to Tikal while I’m there. I’ve read that it’s possible to go by plane for around $100. Is that true? Once I land, how difficult will it be to get to the site itself?

Anyone have info on this?

I’ll be there for 8. I really, really wish I could stay longer, but them’s the breaks. I’m going down for a wedding – my good friend and bandmate (he’s from there) is getting married, and has asked me to help out with the music for the ceremony. So I’ll have some responsibility and won’t be able to go galivanting off the whole time.

But I’ll be staying in Antigua, so I hope to get some time to wander around that town and also some chances to check out other sites while I’m there.