The Maya Ruins of Copan in Honduras, and Comalapa,
Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango and Antigua in Guatemala
January 27 -February 8, 2012
Sunset Over Lake Atitlan by John Martin
My group of travelers experienced an unforgettable journey with Explore Guatemala January 27-February 8, 2012. Fifteen of us visited the Maya ruins of Copan in Honduras, and Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango and Antigua in Guatemala. When asked, "How was your trip?" I am unequal to the task to describe it, because "just fabulous," or "we had a great time" does not do the trick. Words can't illustrate the bonds felt among like-minded friends on a journey together, enjoying once-in-a-lifetime moments. Maybe these pictures will help.
Our first destination - Copan in Honduras. Copan is said to be the Paris of the Maya World. We stayed at the Hacienda San Lucas, originally a family ranch. Dinner is always by candlelight. It is situated in the jungle, amidst tropical plants, swaying hammocks, with a Yoga pavillion which looks out over the Copan Valley. At night the sky is full of stars, without the glare of city lights. Renouned archeologist David Sadat, instrumental in some of the major digs and discoveries at Ruinas Copan. spoke to us the evening of our arrival. His descriptions left us enthralled and anxious to get to the site.
Altar Q Stellae detail
Bat God of Copan Stellae detail
Siesta time at Hacienda San Lucas
After a thrilling morning at the ruins of Copan, we went to lunch at a bird sanctuary, and spent a little time with feathered friends.
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Allyson |
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| Melissa |
On our way to Lake Atitlan we stopped at the Comalapa Market, which is an ideal place to take pictures of the handsome locals.
selecting veggies working with embroidery
One of our first adventures upon arriving at Lake Atitlan and the Hotel Atitlan was a boat trip to Santiago de Atitlan. Shopping is a big event, and this town is famous for their beautiful purple huipiles with birds and animals.
Annabelle & the ladies of Santiago de Atitlan
After exploring Santiago de Atitlan we enjoyed a private visit and 5 course lunch at Candis Krummel's home, a private compound of authentic Guatemala-style buildings with thatched roofs and native materials. Son Cameron and grand daughter Florencia were our hosts. Watching Florencia grow up over the years has been a treat. She is a multi-lingual joy to behold.
Florencia holding fruit in 2010 My painting of Florencia in 2012
John Martin with Florencia
Every evening before dinner we congregate in the meeting spot, the Hotel Atitlan Bar.
Juanito & Jennifer
Allyson, Carol. Jennifer and Lasca
Julia and Terry T
Anita at dinner Julia's Purple Huipile & Terry T
Lasca & Julia
Happy moments with Helen and John
A trip to Guatemala is not complete without a visit to Chichicastenango. This is the best textile market in the Americas, and perhaps in the world. There is also a place for pizza that ranks way up there. Below: John & Anita in Pizza Parlor.
Our last evening at Hotel Atitlan was an unforgettable party time. We modeled purchases from the trip, and ate fantastic cusine with lots of good wine. Priceless is the memory of the exotic dance by Mary Clare and Jennifer, as well as the conga line lead by Carol and red and white stiped pants that were bought as souveniers of the party.
We hated to leave Hotel Atitlan and the beautiful lake, but there were more great things to come...the luxurious Palacio de Dona Leanor in Antigua, the colonial art and monestaries, delicious restaurants and of course more shopping. Here are a few highlights.
trip to a local art gallery
Eggs Benedict for breakfast
Hot tub at the Palacio
Colonia Art Museum treasures
Example of an elegant room
Alas, our bags are packed and weighted. Adios.......
Here are a few more unforgettable moments.....
Luz, master crochet teacher
John & Florence Allyson & Melissa
Familia Metcalf
Terry Gay & Annabelle
Favorite birds of Guatemala
I am frequently asked: "When are you going back?" Well, the time has come! I will be taking a group January of 2016. Email me if you would like to be on the list to receive a brochure. I always leave a little part of my heart in Guatemala and bring home a few Quetzales (Guatemalan currency), with the hope that I may return. So far, that has worked about a dozen times. Hasta Luego, Guatemala. Until we meet again.
