In short:

Guatemala was beautiful!

5 days just was not enough time to explore this gorgeous country!
The people are friendly, the stars are bright and the mountains are colorful.

Dad and I flew in to Guatemala city late Wednesday night, ordered room service and dad slept.
I however, could not. (Dad snores…)

Next morning we explored a bit of the city before we headed on to our next destination.

The next part of our short trip was spent in the valley of Canillá.
We left Guatemala city Thursday morning in a tiny plane. Tiny.
The only other tiny plane I’ve ever been in is when I skydived. Back then I went with every intention of jumping out. I never thought what it would be like to actually land. Yikesssss.

After surviving, we (my dad and I) spent a wonderful three days in the valley.
Friends of my Dad built a hospital in Canillá and they organized their second ever round of surgeries that weekend!
I even got to scrub in and observe. (Lots of deep breaths and a conscious bend in my knees)

I haven’t slept this well in a long time.
There is something about open windows, fresh air, fans, and waking up to bug bites that puts a smile on my face.

Soaking up different cultures is a beautiful thing.
We woke up super early one morning to explore the local cemetery close by.
After recently watching the Disney movie Coco, it felt extra magical.
The colors, the space, the love and gifts they continue to give their loved ones, is a beautiful thing to observe.

This little old man passed me without breaking eye contact.
I have so many questions for Mr. Machete.
But this picture is worth a thousand words.

We spent our last day in Antigua.
Rich in culture and history, I was speechless.
I could not put my camera down.
Put this town on your Bucket List.

MUST VISIT.

Oh FOOD!
You can’t forget the food.

Two years ago I would have grabbed a Subway sandwich next door instead of discovering foreign food.
Proud moment here.
Finally growing up.

It’s a cool feeling when your parents transition into friends.
This here is my travel adventure buddy.

We’re a great team because we can always find ways to justify one more meal into the day.
We’re on vacation…
When will we ever have the opportunity to eat this food again….
We could die tomorrow…

Oh Antigua… swooooon.
One day was NOT enough. I will be back. 

Antigua was like the Oklahoma of the states.
A church on every corner.

But oh my gosh. These buildings were full of detail and grandeur.
Did I mention we visited on a festival weekend? The last weekend of Lent.
The streets smelled of incense. Families picnicked on every corner.
Purple robes and people were plenty.

I can’t wait to return with more time and an emptier stomach.
There was so much to learn, so much to eat and so much more to see.
If Guatemala wasn’t on your list, I hope it is now.

🙂 Thanks for following my adventure.
MORE TO COME.