American+Guatemalan husband = living in Guatemala. We love exploring this beautiful country from hidden gems to can’t-miss spots. I’m adventurous, but for me rustic has limits so recommendations include a bed, bathroom and drinkable water. Check back for more “Guatemala Trip Tips” because I add new recommendations weekly (more restaurant recommendations coming)!!
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SNOOZED IN: Antigua Guatemala
SUPPLY KIT: Antigua Guatemala
ATE IT: Antigua Guatemala
SNOOZED IN: Antigua Guatemala
Super-safe Marriott property and yep, points qualifying. The location a few blocks walk from Parque Central on a quiet side of town. Every stay funds schooling for a disadvantaged child in Guatemala!
Good Hotel Antigua
Located in a safe, gated neighborhood on the outskirts of town (4 min tuk tuk ride), beautiful garden, clean and quiet. Breakfast not included.
Casa Santa Margarita
Rustic and elegant. I truly felt like I was stepping into the Antigua of Spain descent. Our stay included breakfast and the rooftop view is an added benefit. Parking is available; it includes a block walk and the valet assists with bags.
Las Cruces Boutique Hotel
A little more elegant yet still historic. We like the spacious rooms, soft bedding, FREE parking underground so it's COOL and DRY, old Spanish influence. Lots of weddings here. It's a little farther from the city center (6 blocks) but closer to the o...
Camino Real Antigua Guatemala
Since we stayed it has gotten more popular so it can be pricey. A full breakfast is included. The airport shuttle was great. It feels old world and has a beautiful little garden area for a peaceful sit and coffee in the morning.
San Rafael Hotel, Antigua Guatemala
SUPPLY KIT: Antigua Guatemala
The pink bottle is 8-years old and been on many, many high-drop journeys. It keeps my water COOL and I think only a steam roller could stop it from going with me everywhere.
Swell Water Bottle
Open air brings fluctuating temps and “wildlife” into your space. No one wants hot face cream a pesky ant in your vitamins. These seal tight, leak proof containers are perfect, even for my liquid toner. I've had this pink water (dropped multiple time...
Swell Travel Containers
An essential backpack is light. Why carry the extra weight of canvas that also gets hot & sweaty on your back. Copaxi has lots of pockets, a zipped cell phone compartment and a side handle to carry like luggage. Cute colors and an alpaca logo too...
Cotopaxi Trek Bag
Did you know Hydro Flask has a trade-in program? Use, reuse, abuse and recycle!! I like the lock tight lid so there's no backpack dripage.
Hydro Flask
I am a bag in a bag type of traveler. I always pack a crossbody so I can go out in the evening or to the market without lugging a backpack (bam-bam-whap in the narrow walk ways). It's a discrete to way to carry money, passport, a travel sunscreen, li...
Kipling Crossbody Bag
This is an unbeatable trio!! It fits perfectly in a crossbody and has a great scent. Since there's a 30SPF and a 50 SPF you're prepped for in/out shopping or a climb to the Fuego volcano.
Coola Organic Travel Size SPF & Kits
I am not a climber but these work for everything!! I use them to hang wet clothes, secure bags, as a pickpocket deterrent by clipping my bag to my belt loop. I didn't get them until I GOT them. So-many-uses!!
Carabiner Clips: Locking & Non-Locking | REI Co-op
I've been lucky with Holyluck bags. I am a bag in bag girl. This one has a CLIP to keep it you at all times and it's as light as a feather. I usually find something unexpected while browsing and can pull this out instead of plastic. Also good for dir...
HOLYLUCK Heavy Duty Foldable Tote Bag
You need shoes to go from the streets to a volcano which is surprisingly not too different. The streets are stone, uneven and old, the sidewalks too! Watch where you're walking there are occasional holes in the walkways!! These shoes are both sturdy ...
On Women's Cloud 6 Waterproof Shoes
Bugs LOVE me and I HATE citronella! I am going out at night this is my go-to because it smells good and keeps the mosquitos off me. For outing, woodsy treks, I recommend a DEET mosquito repellent because Dengue Fever is a reality here.
Cactus Juice Jungle Duty Combo-Pack
ATE IT: Antigua Guatemala
When I travel with picky eaters who might want something less local this is a reasonably priced stop. The menu has everything from pasta to pizza to burgers, plus traditional dishes. The bakery is worth the stop for fresh pan (bread), croissants, cin...
San Martin Bakery
Cozy speakeasy off the main square. Super fun for a late night snack and cocktail. The presentation is always spectacular and the staff makes good recommendations.
Charleston Antigua
Propose here, celebrate here. This is a gem of a restaurant. Beautiful indoor/outdoor setting with a Latin fusion twist on traditional. It's our go to romantic spot. It's a little hard to find, there's a little park and it's in the back corner.