Travel to Central America

Cartago

The town of Cartago was founded by the Spanish in 1563, and it was an important site until the 19th century, when earthquakes destroyed most of the old buildings. Today, the little city is a provincial capital, but parts of it preserve some of the colonial atmosphere.  Volcan Irazu and the Ruins of Ujarras also lie nearby.

Templo de la Música

This temple is an imitation of the temple of love and music in Versailles. The painter Francisco Salazar, who became an architect, tore down a wooden kiosk and put this temple in its place. Inaugurated December 24, 1920, the temple served as the place for political speeches and even an exchange of powers. During the 20th century, orchestras and city bands used to offer concerts and serenades to the peasants. The temple was recently restored with the rest of Morazan Park. Nowadays, the San Jose City Band and the National Symphonic Orchestra offer concerts here, on special occasions.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles

When the Spanish invade came to the Americas, they began to imposse spread their system of beliefs. Because of the fact that various goddesses already enjoyed active cultures, the virgin quickly became the most popular Christian symbol here. The legend say that the statue miraculously appeared on the site here. The basilica remains a very important focus of popular religion, even after its destruction in the earthquake of 1926. The present basilica was rebuilt afterwards.

Barva de Heredia

If you love colonial architecture and history as well , you will definitely enjoy a visit to this little town, where most of the buildings are old and the environment conserves some of the peacefulness of times past. Bring your camera you will definetly want to take this scene back home. There are various restaurants and cafes here, including Cafe Britt (run by Cafe Britt Farm, where you can eat, or drink a soft drink or coffee). The village is considered to be a national monument

Mayan New Year

On this day, Mayans celebrate the cycle of life coming full circle. Followers of Mayan ritual practice celebrate in sacred sites around the country. New priests are initiated into community service for a full cycle, a solemn honor. The uninitiated may observe some rituals, and should be respectful at all times. Dates and locations of ceremonies in Guatemala City TBA.

Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day)

This is a kinda conflicted holiday in Guatemala as in much of Latin America. Some celebrate Columbus's discovery of the Americas. Others celebrate the survival of indigenous cultures in spite of that discovery and the European conquest that followed it. The designation Dia de la Raza or "Day of the Race," namely a race mixed of colonial and indigenous elements, represents this duality. Celebrations in Guatemala City, centering around the Plaza Mayor, may meet protests. Such meetings, while most often peaceable, do warrant caution.

Museo de los Niños

Designed for children over five years old. Their main objective is to support formal education in a fun but safe place; a space  where the kids can learn through interactive games. There are plans for a shop specializing in educational material and stimulating toys for the smaller ones. The customer service is excellent and the attendants are always on hand to provide information for visitors in each part of this interesting museum.

Peak Sailfish Season

January is the peak of the sailfish season off the Pacific Coast of Guatemala, although sailfish are caught year-round here. A nice coincidence of ocean currents makes nutrients and the big fish that eat them plentiful, leading to record catches. Numerous companies run full package tours, picking fishers up in Guatemala City, providing transportation, meals, equipment and even entertainment, although the real draw is reeling in the giants.

Chichicastenango Santo Tomas Celebration

Renowned for its colorful market days (Thursdays and Sundays), Chichicastenango also stages one of Guatemala's best religious celebrations, the week-long tribute (December 13-21) to Santo Tomas, the city's patron saint. The ceremonial center of the festivities is the Church of Santo Tomas, but rituals in this ancient Mayan city mix Catholic with native traditions. Visitors can expect abundant food, lively music and any number of native dances. Also watch for the acrobatic Palo Volador stunts in which performers fly on ropes around a central pole.

Holiday Shopping at Mercado de Artesanias

If you need to do last-minute gift shopping before leaving Guatemala , tour the 30-plus stalls of this market. Browse arrays of woolen goods, wood carvings, leather goods, pottery and jewelry. Prices are reasonable. Also, sample regional dishes and sweets, or have a full meal in the Don Emiliano restaurant. Some market stalls close on Sundays.