Although I technically started my first day of this trip in Guatemala City, the part that is most interesting to share starts in Antigua. Not the one in the Caribbean, the one in Central America. I received multiple warnings to make sure I booked flights to the right Antigua – I imagine there have been more than a few people [not so] pleasantly surprised to show up in the wrong country (Although I do find both to be beautiful)!

If you find yourself flying to Guatemala, you are more than likely flying into Guatemala City – while there were some cute cafes, street art around, and hidden alleys. I didn’t find this somewhere I wanted to stay any longer than necessary. And honestly, had I known how cute Antigua was, I would have gone directly there to maximize my time.

If you are looking for the ‘must do’ while here:

1. Volcano Hike (Overnight Volcano Acatenango)
2. Dinner/drinks at Aqua Antigua to enjoy the 360 view of the volcanos at sunset
3. Night time walk around the Parque Central Antigua Guatemala
4. I would rate this as a place I’d say for 3 days

If you’re there longer than a day I’m not sure what else to tell you to do because I was only there a day. I didn’t actually do the Volcano hike – was just jealous of everyone else that did! I did however have dinner and amazing cocktails at Aqua Antigua on the roof. The view was amazing and I even got to see the volcano erupt – which was first for me and totally worth it. I went at sunset and hung out for an hour or so there just for the view and the vibe.

Walking around downtown I felt completely safe, even late at night alone. I was here around Christmas so the lights were strung up everywhere and the city glowed in an extra special way. Although the way the buildings were lit it looks like they would be this way year round. Walking around at night, seeing the shops, grabbing some street food, and just wandering is definitely the way to end the evening.

I actually stayed in a hostel for this one. The part that spoke the most to me was the airplane parked in the courtyard. I reckon it’s an old Piper. I like to tell myself this is an old drug runner from the 70s and 80s – makes for a good story. Truth is, I don’t know why it’s there. But I do know it looks really cool and I obviously took LBD photos on it!

This was a quick stop over (as they all are for me) but could have easily enjoyed a few more days to add the volcano hike and enjoying the city, but my assessment is that this is a 3-day spot.