After checking out of my birthday villa, I took a quick two-minute lancha ride to Free Cerveza, an eco-friendly hostel, to spend my final two nights at Lake Atitlán. In hindsight, I’m starting to think I should’ve done these two stays in reverse order...
Next, I headed to Antigua—a picturesque Spanish colonial city brimming with museums, restaurants, and shops. It’s truly a tourist’s haven. With its lava cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and incredible food scene, it’s no surprise this gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To dive deeper into Guatemalan history, I joined a free walking tour with Happy Harold, who brought the city’s rich history and culture to life. He was so entertaining and, true to his name, so happy! Definitely a 10/10 tour.
But, of course, no trip is complete without a little chaos. Just when everything seemed picture-perfect, disaster struck… below the belt. And, of all nights, it happened right before my Acatenango Volcano overnight hike—a must-do experience in Guatemala if you’re up for it.
Let’s just say it became a cautionary tale of what not to do before tackling the country’s most iconic trek. But hey, what’s an adventure without a few hiccups? Between the laughs, lessons, and jaw-dropping views, this trip has already secured its spot as one for the books.
I should get some rest now because tomorrow I’m up early for my flight to… El Salvador!
00:25 Villa Vibes to Hostel Horrors
01:17 Hostel Horrors: Katie's Experience at Free Cerveza
03:01 Grace's Nightmare Hostel Story in Bali
08:35 Kayaking and Hiking Misadventures
10:59 Preparing for the Volcano Hike: Tips and Warnings
16:50 Antigua Adventures: Exploring the Town and Its History
24:00 Tourism and Inequality in Guatemala
25:30 Challenges and Hopes for Guatemala's Future
31:06 Volcano Hike
42:50 Conclusion and Credits
Season 1, Episode 2, Links
Shuttle between Lake Atitlán and Antigua
Free Walking Tour with Happy Harold
Sources
This podcast was recorded under a SAG-AFTRA Agreement.
Broad Abroad is a production of Gotham West Studios. All rights reserved.
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