February 21st
La Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez
Eating off the streets. Nothing better than that.
Right outside of Antigua. They have a beautiful hill overlooking the town.
This is the way we travelled around the town. Since it was so small, and we had 3 of us, we weren't able to get up the hill properly. So Sam and I got out and helped push, to give it a running start.
We were there right before Easter. Every Easter they have a huge celebratory festival. They usually have a parade that goes through the streets. The statues behind me are hand made and painted for this special celebration.
At night in the plaza of Antigua. It was calm and peaceful. We would sit outside and just watch the people enjoy themselves. Anyone who's anyone was in the plaza at night.
February 22nd
Took a bus to one of the largest markets in Guatemala. They had everything you could possibly want. It was extremely crowded but good thing for us, we were a foot taller than everyone so we could navigate pretty well.
Eating some fried chicken in between shopping at the market.
Lake Atitlan Panajachel, Solola
This is what some church archeologist and experts believe to be the Waters of Mormon. It is known to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It definitely lived up to all the expectations. Sunset is amazing there.
February 23rd
We took a boat across the lake, then took a taxi to get the base of the mountain that we wanted to climb. The hike wasn't easy but totally worth it. You can see the Lake as well as the surrounding volcanoes. Our guide didn't even break a sweat. He told us that many people would go hang gliding off this point, down to the lake. This was by far one of the best views I have had in my life. We all just sat at the top and enjoyed the view for awhile.
We also went on a hike to a nearby volcano. The volcano is still active. There is a spot where there is air coming from underground. The air was so hot, that the guide gave us a few marshmellows and we were able to roast them on a stick. It's pretty cool to say I have roasted marshmellows from lava heat.
Buying more food off the street. We have been doing this since my first trip to Mexico when I was 8. Still never gotten sick.
On the dock of the Lake.
February 24th
We went to a botanical garden nearby.
One of the reasons we wanted to come to Guatemala was to volunteer at this orphanage. When we got there, there wasn't really anyone there. Apparently, the owners were away for a medical conference and there weren't very many orphans there. But, like every place in Guatemala, they had a soccer field. So we rounded up some of the kids to have a friendly game of futbol.
We made a stop to the LDS church that was there in town. A member was there painting the gate outside the church (he had recently returned from his mission), and he let us into the church. It was a beautiful church.
February 25th
Sam and I tooth kayak out on the lake for about an hour. That was enjoyable. Over the years the water level of the lake has risen, so there were a couple houses that were half underwater. So, we took our kayak and rode through the house, through their porch and their living room.
After kayaking we decided to go to a natural hot spring together. Very relaxing.
Mom fell in the love with this lade who sold different pieces of jewelry on the streets.
Last meal on the lake, so we decided to spend some extra money to get some good food with a great view of the lake.
February 26th
Getting home was kind of a nightmare (per the usual). We were frantically trying to get onto the internet with our phones because we had to sign in, and they wouldn't let us do it at the counter. While we were stressing out about that, we had a little bit of lunch. Sam unfortunately took off his retainer, left it in the napkin that gone thrown away with all the other trash. Mom got the janitor, and started looking through all the trash. No luck, Sam was out $500. Luckily all worked out and we made the flight that was oversold. Thank goodness for no shows.
As you can see, when I am out, I am out. Note the drool all over my shirt.
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