Antigua is a colonial town that sits in a large valley (Elevation 5069ft/1545 m) surrounded by 3 volcanos (1 active). It is known for its Spanish-Baroque influenced architecture, historic ruins, cobblestone streets, numerous outdoor cafes & coffee shops, inexpensive Spanish schools and year round Spring-like weather (75/55 in Jan/Feb). It is the #1 tourist (and wedding) destination in Central America.
La Aurora, Guatemala City, International Airport (GUA)
As of 9/1/22 you do not need a COVID test or vaccine to enter Guatemala. Additionally, no other vaccines are required. No Travel VISA is needed. An entry stamp in your passport and serves as your 90 day VISA.
The wedding is on November, 25th. We are encouraging people to make a vacation of it (if they are able). If you've never been to Antigua, Guatemala before get ready to be blown away! Roque & I both love it and we look forward to showing you all the amazing things to do inside Central Antigua as well as in the surrounding towns.
Nope! Driving in Guatemala can be a little tricky if you don't know the roads or traffic norms…and rental cars can actually be a bit pricey. Besides, you can virtually walk everywhere around Antigua.
Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and stores, but check with your bank to assure you don't get charged foreign transaction fees. You'll also need a debit card so you can get Quetzales from the ATM. US$ may be accepted, but it is not recommended as it is difficult for the locals to get them changed. Getting local currency from an ATM is not difficult but make sure your bank knows you are traveling. ATMs are available at the airport, at grocery stores, pharmacies and at several locations around Parque Central. I recommend the blue Banco Industrial machines. Currently the 5B yellow machines are changing an extra change fee which you can deny the fee and so far it hasn't charged me. Charles Schwab and some other banks refund foreign ATM fees. Otherwise expect each transaction fee to be around $5.00. If you take out 1000Q that is $134. The max per day is 2000Q which is $267.
Daily high temperatures are around 72°F, rarely falling below 68°F or exceeding 77°F. The lowest daily average high temperature is 72°F on November 18. Daily low temperatures decrease by 2°F, from 57°F to 55°F, rarely falling below 51°F or exceeding 60°F.
Antigua is a tourist town and can accommodate special diets. The typical Guatemalan fare is carb heavy with beans, rice, tortillas but there is a very wide variety of cuisine available at all budgets.
Antigua is safe. That being said, no need for any fancy jewelry. Don't flash cash, wallets, or cell phones. Take caution as you would traveling in any other city. Don't stumble out of bars late at night. Antigua is safe for walking anytime during the day and with other after dark but we do recommend you don't stay out too late. Keep your passport in your room and only carry the cash and cards that you really need. More than likely you'd lose them over them getting stolen but use common sense and be a smart traveler.
No, do not drink tap water. Filtered or bottled only. Most homes, all hotels, and most Airbnbs have filters. Bring a water bottle with you wherever you go. You can eat the the ice from tourist restaurants.