"It's all Culture" a Guatemala Travel Page by La_Canchita

I read somewhere (it was somewhat of a 'warning' actually...) that once you visit Guatemala, it gets in your blood - and there is nothing you can do to stop it. I actually read this after living there, but it did make perfect sense to me - and it helped me figure out this intense desire that I have to return....I hope that what you find here sorta portrays what Guatemala is to me and the many others that have been bit by the 'guate' bug :)

I first arrived in Guatemala, New Years Eve, 2001. The very first nite there was an experience all in itself. Like most countries, there was neither sleep nor slumber until late the next morning. In my POV, Guatemaltecos are extremely noisy, and therefore can be alot of fun, yet it can also cause some grief (particularly if you [like myself] are accustomed to the quite life that can be found in Canada).
I would have to say that the most interesting thing about Guatemala is its huge diversity of peoples and religions. Along with this is the importance of culture, especially for the Maya people. Guatemala is a country with over 20 different languages, and as such, it creates a different experience in every area visited. Although the Maya people may look similar, they are, in fact, very different. The main similarity would be the religious aspect. Yet, in studying the ancient Mayan's, fueds and war were a commonality for those that lived in that era (+- 300AD).
The cultural richness of the people makes Guatemala one of the most beautiful countries around (of course, you must get past the extreme pollution, noise and garbage). And in order to truly appreciate what it has to offer, it is necessary to travel to the villages and small towns that still live in the way they did many years ago.
The Maya people are friendly, but can be somewhat suspicious of strangers (given the long civil war in which many Americans were involved; as well as the more recent occurance of Maya children being kidnapped by strangers); they are nontheless still welcomeing and inviting. I do need to add that, while it is hard to become a part of the Maya community, once you are they are your family for life. Their complete dedication and love for their people amazes me even to this day....

Here you can see the two volcanos in the back ground and the side of the third on the right. There are three surrounding the lake.

This is taken from a boat trip across lake Atitlan. A boat is called "una lancha" and they are a great way to travel and meet many locals (who, btw are always happy to help you out).