Guatemala

Guatemala borders Mexico and Belize to the north. To the south are Honduras and El Salvador, making the country the true gateway to Central and South America. Guatemala is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with 24 ethnic groups among its 12 million inhabitants and an equal number of languages, 21 of which come from the Mayan civilization.

Famous for its majestic volcanoes and pristine mountain lakes, the country also offers the visitor an opportunity to explore verdant tropical rain forests, black volcanic beaches, and lush, towering mountains. Guatemalan history dates back to the time of the ancient Mayan civilization and students can explore numerous archaeological sites throughout the nation. Tikal, the Mayan capital during the classical period, is often described as one of the most spectacular, yet mysterious wonders of the world. Guatemala was founded in 1524 as the capital of the Spanish colonial government in Central America. Many cities and towns still maintain a colonial Spanish ambiance, offering many sites from the era of The Conquistadores.

 

Guatemala itself offers a unique study abroad experience. While Guatemala struggles with some of the economic and social issues as do other developing countries in Latin America, the strong presence of indigenous culture and popular movements provide for a unique learning experience. Students are able to learn first hand about Spanish colonialism, Mayan history and current daily life.

 

Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango is the second largest city in Guatemala, with a population of 250,000. Commonly known among Guatemalans by its K'iche name of Xela (Say-la), it is situated near several volcanoes in the heart of the Sierra Madres, 200 kilometers west of Guatemala City. Quetzaltenango’s altitude of 2,333 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level ensures warm days, cool nights and no mosquitoes but is only 1.5 hours from tropical beaches on the Pacific Coast.

 

Quetzaltenango is an active city, which does not depend on tourism, nor does it have the high concentrations of language students as do tourist centers such as Cuernavaca, México, Antigua, Guatemala and Quito, Ecuador. In addition, Guatemalans are generally recognized as having one of the clearest Spanish accents and they don't speak as rapidly as some of their neighbors.

 

As the result, students have more opportunity to interact with the local population and participate in Guatemalan life. Xelajú has a rich history and with its six universities and several technical schools, it is often referred to as Guatemala’s cultural center and most progressive city. There are 35,000 students from all over the country and the city taking classes at the universities and high schools. Xelajú has the highest number of elementary, middle, high school and universities per capita than any other city in the country.

 

Some of the most celebrated people in Guatemalan history were originally from Quetzaltenango including Otto René Castillo, who is considered the most influential writer in the country, President Jacobo Arbenz Guzman, who was overthrown by the CIA in 1954, and Jesús Castillo, the best known marimba composer in Guatemala and the world. With a population 50% indigenous and 50% mestizos, the city is an example of how traditionally impoverished indigenous people have obtained economic and political power in Guatemala running small and big businesses. In 1986, Xelajú elected its first indigenous mayor in 150 years.

 

In 1848, Quetzaltenango won its independence from Guatemala, becoming the capital of "El Sexto Estado de los Altos". However, the Guatemalan army crushed the movement after two years of independence. Within a few kilometers of the city there are several Mayan towns which are Famous for their busy markets and colorful traditional costumes and woven goods.

 

Links

Background Information Background Note by US Department of States The World Fact Book by CIA Map of Guatemala Origin of Quetzaltenango

 

Travel Information

guate360.com: Enjoy the panoramic 360 degree pictures of Guatemala. Highly recommended! And here is the link to the wonderful pictures of Quetzaltenango.

Festivals in Guatemala: Here in Guatemala we have a variety of festivals related to diverse Saints. These culture enriching festivals are held all time of the year.

GUATEMALAWEB

Recetas Chapinas

PLANETA.COM: Specializes in ecotourism

MayanTravel.com

TURANSA