GUATEMALA 2008: ¡Hola! Dia Uno en Antigua

Hi all

Arrived in Guatemala City at about 5 a.m.  No longer sure what day that was, but I believe it was yesterday. Juan Carlos was there to pick me up and drive me to Antigua. I got to Meson Panza Verde at about 5:45 a.m. The place is delightful, with 12 rooms surrounding a totally lush courtyard. Unfortunately no one knew I would be there quite so early so my room was not ready.. but they gave me a little room to take a nap and shower… I woke at about 11 and set out to roam the city where I had not been in more than 19 years.

It’s changed.. They have McDonald’s and bagels now, but other than the strange commercial shops situated in quite old and historic buildings, the town is as I remembered.. just more tourists. The dollar is still worth something here.

Meandered to the mercado and checked out crafts and foods.. and strolled through marvelous courtyards. It seems to be overcast most days and drizzles in the afternoon, but the temperature is about 70 and dips to 60 at night. Feels a bit warmer during the day because of the humidity, but colder at night (less than 60).

Had dinner at Meson which is considered one of the best restaurants in Antigua and it did not disappoint. That made for an easy entry.

Oh.. when I returned from the market, I was moved to my first real room.