It's funny, but as humans we tend to take new experiences and box them in, comparing them to something familiar that can help us make sense of things. When we first arrived in Panajachel, we couldn't help but compare the area to Chiang Mai, Thailand, where we had last lived. The first thing we noticed, as in Thailand, was the natural beauty of the area. Hills and volcanoes surround a gorgeous, immense lake and the temperatures were mild and pleasant. The views? Like a travel postcard! We never tire of the majesty of this place.
Lori loves her coffee so finding the perfect coffee shop is essential when we travel. Thankfully, Panajachel is filled with them as Guatemala has some of the best coffee in the world. Lori was lucky enough to find just a place that had a nice modern decor, called Te quiero. For about Q20 (less than $3) she gets gourmet coffee or tea if she chooses. She will miss the latte art that Josue, her barista, always created.
Lori fell in love with Zumba while in Thailand, so here in Pana she has continued her passion. At the local gym they have all sorts of fitness classes from yoga to Zumba. Lori bought a frequent flyer membership card at the gym for $24 that gives her 12 sessions. This is a pretty good bargain.
As for me, I like to hike, but due to safety reasons on the trail it was a lot harder to do regularly. If hiking in this area make sure you always get a local guide.
~Randy
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