The Pros And Cons Of Visiting Guatemala (Or Becoming An Expat)

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Guatemala is known for many things; volcanoes, the ancient citadel of Tikal, a modestly warm climate and colonial architecture of Antigua.

It also boasts a low cost of living, which attracts many expats to Guatemala looking to make their hard earned cash go further.

But Guatemala while Guatemala has its many fine qualities, it also has its drawbacks, which is why we’ve prepared this guide on the pros and cons of visiting Guatemala so that anyone thinking of visiting here can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for them.

Whether you’re looking to become an expat in Guatemala or you’re looking to travel here, we hope these pros and cons give you an idea of what it’s like to visit here.

Pros of Visiting Guatemala

Ever the optimists, let’s begin with the pros of Guatemala and some of the reasons you may want to visit.

1. Easy to get to from North America

Getting to Guatemala from the USA is reasonably easy and convenient, with various travel options available.

The easiest and most common way to reach Guatemala from the USA is by air, as Guatemala has refurbished its international airports to accommodate flights from the U.S. and other regions.

Various airlines fly to Guatemala, including United Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and others, so you can find affordable flights as well as plenty of options.

You can also find reliable bus services like Ticabus, which you can take from neighboring countries such as Honduras and Belize. Read these tips on how to find cheap flights.

2. Lots of cultural attractions

Guatemala has so many cultural attractions to explore. For one, the city of Antigua, a colonial city, is one of the main reasons to visit the country. It captivates anyone who visits here with its elegant ruins of conquistadors’ convents and cathedrals, offering a glimpse into the country’s history.

Then there are the Mayan ruins of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which stand as a powerful testament to an ancient civilization that once dominated this land.

Another cultural experience you can have in Guatemala is a homestay. Many of the local families in rural areas open their homes to international tourists as a way for them to learn English, and also offer an immersive cultural experience to…