Guatemala

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!