Full Article:
Central America has much to offer and one of the beautiful countries to visit there is Guatemala. It is rich in Mayan culture and history, so there is plenty to explore and experience. Let’s start our journey to this country around Lake Atitlan. This 1,000 foot deep lake is surrounded by three volcanoes, Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro. Located about 90 miles from Guatemala City, you will find a boutique hotel suited to Boomer couples called Hotel Casa Palapo. There are only about 7 rooms plus a private villa, so if you plan on visiting, think well in advance.
Guatemala is known as the “Land of Eternal Spring” because the average annual temperature is 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It gets much cooler than that in the evenings around the lake. Since the rooms can be pricey, book yourself there in the off-season – you know the weather will be acceptable.
The Casa Palapo has comfortable beds with luxury linens, wireless internet available, a lap pool, hot tub, small gym and a garden. The views are spectacular and there are no TVs, so you have each other and the amazing sunsets to keep you company. Speaking of sunsets, the hotel’s restaurant, 6.8 Palapo, open seven days a week is the place to be for dinner to take advantage of the view. They also serve breakfast and lunch, so why not try a traditional Guatemalan breakfast dish – Chilaquiles – corn tortilla chips smothered in tomato, smoked chorizo, medium tomatillo sauce and served with black beans, bacon and fresh cheese – that will get your eyes open in the morning!
While here, the hotel can arrange tours to the nearby villages. The dozen or so different villages offer handmade items such as paintings, pottery and textiles. This is where you can immerse yourself in their rich history. Each town around the lake has its own culture, so the best thing to do is hire a boat with a guide to take you from place to place. You will find three different native languages spoken and many of the inhabitants have never traveled away from their village. In addition to the villages, there are lots of activities to explore. You can take volcano hikes, go scuba diving, bird watching, horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing and the list goes on. Here’s a great hint: if you want to go into town like a local, walk to the bottom of the hill at the hotel and hop on the back of a truck with other locals. Not only will it be an experience, the cost will be around $1.
Each room at the hotel has its own terrace and offers in room spa treatments. There is a library where you can borrow books and magazines to read around the pool.
Why not go off the grid a bit and travel to Guatemala? Bring your partner and enjoy the breathtaking views at Hotel Casa Palapo. I’m sure you will have many stories to share when you get home.
Rating: 
1/2
July 3, 2023
