October 12, 2015 | Leave a comment The lakes are better, the volcanoes are better. Despite corrupt politicians and the prominence of gangs in certain areas, there’s plenty of good vibes and natural beauty in this favorite Central American country. BUDGET BREAKDOWN: Duration- 5 Days Drive to airport- 5 hours, one way Airfare- 217 Airport parking- 12 Gas to airport- 28 Tolls to airport- 17.5 Food and drink- 29 Currency exchange fees- 5 Shuttle- 20 Bus- 8.5 Boat- 15.5 Tuk-tuk- 4 Toilet- .75 Tips-2 Lodging-35 Chocolate/ probiotic bliss ball- 5.5 Yoga class- 5.5 Souvenirs- 20 Sites- .3 Total- 425.55 USD TRANSPORTATION: Connect with the fun chicken busses. Wave them down or stand where others are standing. Avoid inner city red busses in the capital. Take shared shuttles to and from the airport and have your hostels help you out. Lancha boats are water taxis that are frequent, reliable, and cheap; drivers may try to get more money out of you by offering a “private” ride, so check with multiple drivers for prices and when the next boat is coming. WHAT TO DO: Lake Atitlan You’ll learn the quickly associate the word “mystic” with this place. I’ve been to so many pretty niches, but this one is so special. It’s stunning and you really really won’t want to leave. Now for some motivation that isn’t word for word what everyone else says: pick avocados off the trees, stomp on the rotten ones on the ground. Admire the coffee, and locals, even if it means you (attempt to) scramble up a tree after the kids. They might spit banana at you, they surely will ask you for money. Have fun distinguishing among the dozen towns, all named after saints. Watch the first rays of the day’s sunshine cascade over the three volcanic peaks. Summit said peaks, There’s so many great restaurants to try, but also loads of fresh produce. Your mind and body will leave content. San Marcos La Laguna Hippie, hipster, health, hiking. Probiotic bliss balls. An abundance of drop-in yoga classes. If street food doesn’t cut it and you want the best burrito experience of your life, head to Moonfish. Foreigners also love El Trampoline. This town has my heart and I definitely intend on making my way back for another round of love. Santa Cruz La Laguna Hammock by the water dotted with fishing boats, explore uphill. Find the churches, kids running after soccer balls, bridges and humble Mayan homes, and puppies. Snorkel options also available. San Pedro Abuse various substances, grind the night away on someone else. Or so they say. Don’t know much because didn’t participate. Hike San Pedro. San Juan Hike San Pedro or Indian Nose. Quiet, good souvenirs, closer with the locals. Antigua Antigua is one of those pretty places we just like to walk around. Although it was rainy during my stay, the buildings were just as beautiful in the drizzles. We found an impressive historic fountain, and great Guatemalan noms at Tipico Rincon. There are several lively markets- i prefer the one at the bus stop: less tourists, more flies, more fresh fruit. WHERE TO STAY: Hostel Del Lago in San Marcos La Iguana Perdida in Santa Cruz Zoola in Antigua WHAT TO EAT: You’re in Latin America, what a silly thing to consider- eat the tipico! Frozen chocolate covered fruit on a splinter Thick long strips of fresh papaya and mango out of a bag Chicken and chips, fresh and hot from the stands SAFETY: Gangs are a concern, but mainly in Guatemala City and it’s not like people are getting shot every time you look out the window. If you’re a girl with a tinder, maybe don’t use it in this area. You never have to step foot in the city if you don’t want to, shuttles will take you straight from the airport doors to all the main destinations. I was told to never get on a red intra-city bus, because hundreds of innocent civilians and bus drivers get injured or killed each year. Actually, being a driver for these vehicles is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Be aware that it’s recommended to keep your day pack light and hike with a buddy. Muggings are not uncommon in places everyone can’t see you, i.e. summitting a volcano without a guide or walking from San Marcos to Santa Cruz. I risked taking my iPhone for the sake of photo opportunities. Your hostel staff can always give good advice. Guatemalans are currently suffering from Chikungunya, a disease transmitted via mosquitoes. Bring bug spray, light long sleeves, and mosquito nets if you don’t want months of aching joints. I didn’t have these and was fine even after being bit, but if I could go back I’d be more paranoid about it. Rub lime juice immediately on any bite. There’s no cure, most people feel better within a week. But don’t freak out, absolutely still go whether you’re travelling solo or not. I will never not repeat to use common sense and stay in at night. When in doubt, turn to reception boy in hostel. Get moving! Stick to daylight when exploring and you’ll be fine.