This post comes from our good friend, photographer Anna-Alexia Basile!
This trip wasn’t like the other trips. Only three days into the magic of Guatemala, I got really, really sick. The most sick I’ve been in the last decade. You know, the kind of sick where you wonder how there is still anything left in your body.
I know exactly how it happened, too. During some “extreme tubing,” I was flung out of my doughnut and into the rough waters. Let it be made perfectly clear; these were no waters to fool around with. Strong rapids, flying shoes, and a few beers are no match for even the best of swimmers. Despite laughing about it and floating back to safety plastered on top of my best friend and (his slowly sinking) tube, I managed to do the one thing you never, ever do when traveling to a new country. I had done the unthinkable; I had swallowed some of the water.
Despite that little hiccup, I experienced some of the best that Guatemala has to offer. I was really touched by the level of traveler togetherness, the powerful beauty of the landscape and vibrant energy of the Maya. If you’re considering making the trek, here are some places that are sure to blow your mind:
Semuc Champey
Love floating in turquoise bodies of water surrounded by thick jungle brush? Of course you do. And you’ll love it even more when each turquoise pool is connected by tiers of limestone that you use to slide into the pool below it. Such is the sweet, sweet scenery of Semuc Champey…lovely natural pools to cool you down and plenty of hiking around the water and up to a scenic outlook where you can view the water-wonder in its entirety.
Lago Atitlan
Although a bit cooler temperature-wise, Lago Atitlan is a sight to be seen. Flanked by three dormant volcanoes and colorful Mayan villages, the lake is known for its powerful vortex of energy and has been a sacred place to the Maya for centuries. Meditation centers, massage, and yoga studios can be found in the surrounding villages.
Yoga Forest
Resting peacefully up a mountain path in San Marcos La Laguna, Yoga Forest is a wonderful place to unwind. No tuk tuk or bus can take you there. You can only find it by following the vibrant flowers that are painted on rocks and trees to indicate the right way up the mountain path. While there, enjoy permaculture workshops, acro yoga, playing with silks, meditation, and delicious vegetarian meals. The view alone is worth the hike!
If you’re considering exploring Guatemala…GO! But my goodness, don’t even think about swallowing that water.
Photos and words by Anna-Alexia Basile.
I am glad to hear you enjoyed Guatemala! Some other tips if you want to visit my mother country: DON’T DRINK TAP WATER; be aware that there is no such thing as simple, quiet pick-pocketing, but rather violent robs, so be careful and don’t carry valuables around your neck like a tourist; if you want to try local food, try a “carreta” or restaurant or cafe, be careful with street food; climate varies a lot throughout the country so come prepared; enjoy and inmerse yourself in the local culture, which will reward you in many, many aspects. It’s one of the most beautiful countries in America, in my opinion (which is totally biased of course, but oh well).
Ooh! It’s really beautiful. It looks so calm and a relax place, I will go there some day!
Beautiful beautiful post! What a place to be ill :) Thank you for sharing these stunning images.
Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com
Beautiful photos! Looks like a very peaceful place.
<3
http://www.RitaMaesShop.etsy.com
I want to go back to Guatemala so badly. I went on a mission trip there in high school and absolutely loved it. The people were amazing and the landscape was so beautiful. Thanks for sharing you’re lovely pictures!
Amazing pictures! Both of my parents are from Guatemala and I have not had the opportunity to visit. These photos are all the more reason to go! Will make extra sure to avoid drinking the water because I do plan on going in the water haha.
~ nerd
http://www.intergalacticgeek.com
Love the photos! Would love to visit Guatemala one day.
Lizzy at Nomad Notebook
Dying to visit Guatemala now!
http://juliettelaura.blogspot.com
Woah this looks so great! Sorry you got sick, but it looks like you had fun anyway! Really good pics, too.
Woa pictures are amazing !
I had the chance to go to Costa Rica this summer.
Guatemala is on my list !
x,
Maïa
http://www.wildandfolkheart.com
Oh how I love Guatemala! Such a beautiful place full of positive energy! I’ve already been twice but I still long to be there…. *sigh* Gorgeous pictures! I swallowed some water too at Lago Atitlan and was so sick I thought I was pregnant haha
I can’t believe how many people are traveling to Guatemala lately! I just went myself 3 years ago and had THE time of my life. I cherish all my memories there like gold. It was magical. Anyone who can go, GO! Awesome pictures girl!
Hi :)
beautiful pictures ! can you please write down the names of the accomodations in the different places?….
me and my husband are traveling to guatamala soon and i will love a recommendations…. Thank’s :)
Love these photos, so cool – bring back happy memories of Guatemala.
The Yoga Forest, San Marcos la Laguna, Guatemala!
Thanks for writing about us Anna-Alexia!
http://www.theygoaforest.org
The Yoga Forest, San Marcos la Laguna, Guatemala!
Thanks for writing about us Anna-Alexia!
http://www.theyogaforest.org
We LOVE Guatemala just as much as you do and have made it our home. We are currently hosting wellness retreats on beautiful Lake Aititlan for global citizens who want to help make the world a better place. Please visit our website to find out more!
I love Guatemala so mach. It”s nice place to rest
Great photo what filet do you use? I’m currently in Guatemala :-)
This is a beautiful set of photos, I know I want Guatemala to be at the top of my list in Central America.
That forest yoga looks like a great place to unwind. I am feeling more relaxed just looking at your photos. I’m sure that yoga pose isn’t as easy as it looks though!
Lovely pictures. Looks like an amazing place!