|
|
 |
|
Level 1, 178 Collins Street
Melbourne, 3000, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
Ph: 61 3 9654 7977, Fax: 61 3
9650 8177
Licence: 32408 ABN: 26095434978
|
email: info@southamericatourism.com
Reservations:
1300 857 805
|
|
|
|
| Guatemala |
 |
|
Set
amongst breathtaking mountain
scenery, Guatemala has a colourful history and people. The designs and
colours seen in the artwork and clothes of Guatemalans, reflect their
friendly, easygoing nature. Certain designs on clothing items represent
the wearer’s village region, and can also represent religious
or
magical meanings.
|
 |
|
|
Facts & Figures. |
Official
Name: Republic
of Guatemala
Population: 12,000,000
Largest Cities: Guatemala City
Languages: Spanish (official), others
Official Currency: Quetzal
Religions: Catholic, others<
Land Area: 108,430 sq km (41,865 sq miles)
Highest Point: Volcan Tajumulco (4,211 meters)
|
 |
|
|
More Information. |
For those interested in
learning about the Mayan history, Guatemala is a fantastic destination
to see first hand the works of the ancient Mayans. With a history
stretching back over 4000 years, the Mayans and their predecessors left
behind many ruins, one of the most famous being Tikal. Set in the
jungle, the spectacular pyramids of Tikal are a sight to behold.
Towering pyramids rise out of the jungle’s green canopy,
while
below the abundant wildlife emits sounds of the jungle as you trek
through this amazing site.
If it is lakes and mountains you are interested in, then a few days on
the shores of Lake Atitlan will be perfect. This large lake, with three
large extinct volcanoes towering above, gives you the chance to soak in
thermal springs, visit the local villages and their markets, trek in
the surrounds, or even get your scuba-diving certificate diving in Lake
Atitlan!
No visit to Guatemala is complete without a visit to the colourful
market of Chichicastenango. This amazing market blends traditional
Indian life and their ancient beliefs with selling beautifully
embroidered blouses and skirts, table cloths and blankets. A day at the
market is usually dotted with parades by the locals honouring their
ancient Mayan rituals and Catholic rites.
For those wishing to work on their Spanish skills, Guatemala is the
perfect destination to do this. Guatemalan Spanish is very clear and
easy to understand, so a short course in Spanish in one of the
beautiful cities, such as Antigua, will be a wonderful experience. You
can choose to have a homestay with a Guatemalan family, or stay in a
hotel. Either way you will learn Spanish in one of the certified
schools and enjoy your Guatemalan experience all the more with your
newly acquired Spanish!
Markets, mountains, jungles and ancient ruins give the visitor to
Guatemala a chance to experience the delights of this small Central
American country.
|
 |
|
|
Climate. |
Tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
|
| Tours
in Guatemala. |
|
|
|
Currency. |
The Quetzal is the official currency.
|
|
|
|
|
