I have now been in Guatemala for a bit over a week. The most immediate difference from Mexico to Guatemala I encountered were the busses. The busses in Mexico have flat screen TVs and seats that recline, whereas the busses in Guatemala have street preachers screaming damnation, are all full to about 200% capacity, and don't even stop to pick you up, just slowing down a bit so you can jump on. Upon arriving however, I found that Guatemala is also the land of beautiful traditional clothing, cobblestone colonial cities, and super cheap housing (US $3.50/day). Last weekend I went out and climbed the highest mountain in Central America, Tajumulco, at 13900 ft. It was a one night backpacking trip that featured 3700 ft elevation change, hail the diameter of a penny, and really cold toes. However it was all well worth it for the amazing cloud watching and beautiful sunrise from the summit.
Since then I have spent my time in Xela (Quetzaltenango) hanging out and taking spanish classes. I just finished a week of one-on-one spanish 5 hours a day and I think it has helped quite a bit. My spanish teacher was hilarious and the whole school had an excellent vibe. Last night we had a graduation ceremony of beer pong and dancing. It seems my college training is starting to pay off after all as we ran the table all night, although some dancing classes may be in order.
On tuesday I went to the Aguas Amargas hot springs up in the tropical mountainous region nearby. We spent about two hours relaxing and it inspired me to go the other set of hot springs nearby, Fuentes Georginas, before leaving yesterday. Both hot springs are surrounded by lush tropical forest, although Fuentes Georginas has a more natural looking pool area.
All week I have been living with a local Guatemalan family and it has been a great experience. I had my own room on the roof of the house with an amazing view, 3 meals a day, and a fair amount of spanish practice in between. I will probably try to hook up a similar situation with another local family somewhere down the road.
I cut my hair finally, which has made life a bit easier, but I also cut my foot a bit, which causes problems with my sandals. Luckily the magical healing power of the hot springs has helped with this.
Yesterday I arrived at Lago Atitlán, which is a large lake surrounded by volcanic peaks and little villages. There are water taxis connecting them all and today I plan to set out for San Marcos La Laguna, a small hippie/fishing village on the waters edge. I think I will be able to fit in with the culture there fairly well.
I have been updating my photo page a bit, so if you want to see more pictures check them out on shutterfly (the link is on the last post).
