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.