We
just returned from an interesting day in Guatemala. We awoke at the
crack of dawn and took a van with six other passengers to the old
colonial city of Antigua which is up in the mountains of Guatemala
and near two volcanoes. The ride took almost two hours from the port
but it was lovely and we stopped along the way to visit a coffee
plantation. Coffee only grows at a minimum of 4,000 feet so it was
cool and lush. The soil is black volcanic soil so it is very rich in
nutrients.
The
city itself is a lovely example of Spanish colonial architecture and
the people are quite nice. There is a strong Mayan influence here so
almost everyone looks Mayan, with the same facial features and
diminutive height. I thought I was in Munchkin land. We visited a
jade factory where artisans were making beautiful jade jewelry and
artifacts. It was quite interesting to watch the procedure and to
tour the small museum. We saw every color imaginable of jade
objects. After that we hit the local street markets which were very
interesting and colorful. I bought a necklace and three pair of
earrings after bargaining for a few minutes. Then it started to
rain. A torrential downpour. So we went for a delicious lunch in a
local fine restaurant. We enjoyed that very much as well and I
sincerely hope we don't get the trots!
We
also visited a five-star gorgeous hotel where we toured some ruins
from the time of the conquistadores and saw them setting up for a
very fancy, high-end wedding. I believe this hotel was a former
monestary but now is the height of luxury and self-indulgence. I
would stay there in a heartbeat.
Since
it is still pouring we decided to stay on the ship and relax. Now
that I have had my afternoon snack it is all good. Now it is on to
Puntarenas after another sea day. I'm exausted!
