(See, hear, smell, feel) Embracing Culture

From a bicycle ride through the streets of Antigua to the sights and sounds of central park to the tip of el Volcan de Pacaya, I was able to experience part of true Guatemalan history, culture and scenery in just one week. Antigua is full of rich culture and history. Once the capital of Guatemala, Antigua now holds the ruins of some of the country’s most beautiful colonial churches. While in Antigua, I had the opportunity to go on a guided bicycle tour with my roommate to visit many of the numerous churches that surround the city. The stunning architecture and beautiful symmetry give this city a unique, eclectic feel that makes you want to come back for more.

The streets are always alive during the day but at night Central Park and the shops that engulf it are where you want to be. The park is surrounded by restaurants with live bands and internet cafes. I had the opportunity to visit a couple restaurants with one of my roommates for a traditional Guatemalan meal. The aroma of freshly cooked quesadillas and the beat of live traditional salsa music filled the air. The experience was both entertaining and satisfying.

During the day, however, Central Park paints a much different picture. The park is filled with street performers, traditional Mayan women selling garments, rows of shops waiting for the next paying customer and a small orchestra playing music. The sights and sounds could not be more uplifting.
While in Antigua I also had the opportunity to take a day trip to el Volcan de Pacaya. The one-and-a-half hour drive to the park was definitely worth the wait. At the bottom of the volcano I met some other foreigners who were ready for the 2,300m trek. Most of us started off walking, but as we approached 800m or so many of us opted for the horse to take us up the rest of the way. The journey was one that was steep and very challenging.

When we made it to the top the view was astonishing. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I had never experienced anything like it in the world. Steam poured out of the sides of the volcano and hardened volcanic rock lay all of the ground from last year’s eruption. I quickly grabbed a few pieces to take as souvenirs and was on my way further up the volcano. As we got closer we were able to see many small crevices and holes that steam poured out of. Several of us braved it and went right in. It was very warm, much like a sauna or steam room. It was pretty cool to experience this. I have to say that I have done a lot of travelling over the last four years but this is one experience that I found to be quite something.

PARA ARRIBA Y A VOLAR: To go up and to fly – I’m Leaving on a Jetplane…

As my first week ended, I greeted my roommates and host family goodbye. So much had happened in the last week. My real journey was about to begin. I would arrive in San Pedro Sula, Honduras in less than 5 hours and would be kindly greeted by a familiar face that I had met four years ago.