GUATS UP!

Flores – 2 nights

Getting there:

We traveled over from Utilia Bay Island, Honduras via a boat and then a very long bus ride. Flores is a town on Lake Peten Itza. We stayed here so we could visit the mayan ruins in Tikal.

Accommodation:

We stayed at a great hostel called los amigos; see link: http://amigoshostel.com/

Things to do:

– Visit the mayan ruins at sunrise

– Eat tacos along the riverside at the market – super cheap $!

-Walk around the town as it has super cute architecture and is very small

What I wish I knew/did:

The travel day was long coming from Honduras so I highly recommend coming from Belize as it makes sense if your heading south.

Lanquin / Semuc Champey– 3  nights

Getting there:

We took the shuttle bus booked out of our hostel from Flores to Lanquin. It took about 7-8 hours. Prepare yourself for long travel days.

Accommodation:

This is one of my favourite hostels ever! It is situated in the valleys/mountains and has a pool with little wifi. See link: zephyrlodgelanquin.com/

Things to do:

– Do the day tour to semuc champey (be prepared for INTENSE caving, hiking, and waterfalls)

– Party, party lay by the pool

What I wish I knew/did:

Book in advance for this little gem!

Antigua – 3 nights

Getting there:

From Lanquin we took a shuttle bus to Antigua and it also took around 7-8 hours. Antigua is renowned for its Spanish Colonial architecture and it is such a gorgeous city.

Accommodation:

We stayed at Tropicana Hostel which was a great location. See link: http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Tropicana-Hostel/Antigua/90258

Things to do:

– See the Santa Catalina Arch and walk around town

– Go to the spa

– Walk around town and go to the Antigua markets

– Go to Cero De La Cruz (Hill of the cross) to see a view of Antigua

– Take in the nightlife

What I wish I knew/did:

Just explore the churches, and walk around the town.

Overall Recommendations:

I wish so badly I could’ve gone and spent some time in Lake Atitlan! Heard it is amazing. I also would’ve loved to take up some Spanish lessons but time did not permit.