Funnything about Guatemalans (or perhaps not so funny) is the use of thelanguage. Fijese is one of the most characteristic words in thecountry. Its literal translation would be “pay attention” or “focus”(strictly on language terms). The most down-to-earth translation is“you’ll see… about what you asked…”.
But really, what it means in Guatemala is “bad news”
You made reservations at the hotel of your choice. You come toAntigua Guatemala and they tell you the hotel is full. You ask why,“what happened with my reservation?” And they say:
“fijese que hubo un problema con la computadora” / There was a problem with the computer…
You ask your guide to get you some packs of delicious coffee so youcan bring it to your country when you leave. The guide says ok, he’llget it for you.
On your last day in Guate with no time for shopping you ask theguide for your coffee when he is driving you to the airport. His facechanges and says “fijese que se me olvidó” which means “sorry dude, Iforgot”.
You ask for a special mountain bike (Rental) to your travel agencyand they deliver a standard one with a nice pink basket at the front…you wonder how this happen and they say “fijese que solo de estas hay…”which means “well, by now this one is all we got”.
Well, you get the picture, Guatemala is wonderful and the previousstories just represent the scenarios. It doesn’t mean people don’t makesense, not at all, is just an example that whenever you get “fijese” asthe first word, it means bad news.
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Among the beautiful places to visit near Guatemala City, Lake Amatitlán is the biggest lake. It was a few years ago almost the identical brother of Lake Atitlán. So far, the pollution and industrial waste coming from the “modern growing city” show the impact on its waters.
Driving to Tikal from Guatemala City
So you want to visit Tikal on your own? driving? excellent!! Renting a car or taking your own car on a trip from Guatemala City to Tikal is a great way to see the places around and visit several destinations keeping a low budget, better if you stay on cheap hotels or if you camp around.
El Muelle, nice restaurant near Tikal
This was a very hot day on a travel to Tikal. The sun was not “heating” the air, it was punishing us!. This is one of the most hot summers I can remember (global warming?)
Agua Volcano Hunapú
This beauty is real. The name “Water Volcano” or “Volcan de Agua” is because in time of the Spanish Colonization the constant rain caused a flood which destroyed most of the city of Antigua Guatemala. But those days, it was the main city of Guatemala “Santiago de los Caballeros”.
Agua Volcano view from Pacaya Trails
Hunapu Volcano (Agua Volcano)Climbing a volcano is always better in the early morning. This way not only you avoid the heat of the midday sun, you also get the best of the day: clear sky and amazing view.
From Guatemala to Tikal
People ask me all the time what’s the best way to get to Tikal from Guatemala City. If you have zero budget problems you can take a flight early in the morning (6:00-7:30).
Recommended websites and links
Useful links and information resources for travelers