Get Excited to GET Going!

Great Explorations Travel is thrilled to introduce our new e-newsletter, GET Going. Each quarter, we'll bring you travel highlights and an insider's glimpse into must-see destinations.

GET Going will also advise you about current events and their implications for world travel.

When you're ready to plan your next trip, come see us at www.greatexplorationstravel.net!

Feature Destination

Guatemala: The Heart of Mayan Civilization

Considered the most sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization, the Mayans are known for their innovations in architecture, art and time calculation. Nowhere can you get a better sense of this magnificent history than in Guatemala.

This Central American country — which sits between Mexico and Belize to the north and Honduras and El Salvador to the south — boasts one of the best historical sites in the world. Tikal, in northern Guatemala, makes up the country's most famous Mayan ruins. It encompasses more than 3,000 structures, including shrines, temples, ceremonial platforms, residences, ball courts and plazas.

To see Tikal in all its splendor, take a two-day trip and stay overnight. The morning offers a spectacular sunrise and a good chance of glimpsing native wildlife. Most visitors stay in nearby Flores, a dense but picturesque colonial town that sits on an island in Lake Petén Itzá. Flights run from Guatemala City and Belize City to Flores, and a one-hour bus ride takes you to the ruins.

—Travel back in time as you explore the Mayan ruins of Tikal.

Visitors with limited time can do Tikal in one day. You'll also discover many other wonderful ruins in Guatemala, such as Copan and Petén, featuring the remains of several Mayan cities.

Natural beauty abounds in this verdant country. If you like to hike or climb, several active and inactive volcanoes await you. Weather conditions are ideal almost any time of year.

—The colonial city of Antigua offers quaint shops, multicultural cuisine and beautiful architecture.

Also worth a visit is charming Antigua, which was the nation's capital before being

devastated by an earthquake in 1773 (Guatemala City is the present-day capital). Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua is lined with cobblestone streets and colorful, colonial buildings (many now being restored). It is a comfortable place to spend a few days.

Consider taking a Spanish class while you're there; Antigua is known for its Spanish language schools. You can even spend a few weeks at a local's home for a real immersion experience. If you're in search of a local souvenir, one of several jade shops would fit the bill. Jades S.A., a factory and archaeology museum, presents a history of jade and also certifies its products. Good food is plentiful in Antigua — from French and Italian to Asian and, of course, Guatemalan.

—Lake Atitlan provides a peaceful, relaxing getaway.

Another must-see in Guatemala is Lake Atitlan, which Aldous Huxley called "the most beautiful lake in the world." Several towns of varying character dot this picturesque lake, and locals can ferry you to them by boat. A stay here makes for a peaceful getaway.

—Textiles abound at the colorful Chichi Market.

It's nearly impossible to visit Guatemala and not experience a market. Chichicastenango ("Chichi") is the most well-known by tourists. It is a spectacle, with all the colorful textiles made by hand. For beautiful double-sided textiles, take the short trip to San Antonio Aguas Calientes. You won't regret it!

Guatemala suffered for years in a brutal civil war, but times are better now. It's worth spending at least a few days there, where the weather and people are warm and welcoming.

When to Go

Anytime. Guatemala's climate varies by region, but it is generally on the comfortable side. Temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s during the dry season, which runs from November to early May. The high tourist season runs from December to Holy Week. If you don't mind showers in the middle of the day, you may consider traveling during the rainy season — from June to September. However, be aware that mudslides could be a concern.

Cost

Fortunately, you don't have to spend a lot to travel in Guatemala. Prices also fall during the rainy season. Antigua is more expensive than some areas, but you can still find a decent hotel for less than $100. The food is moderately priced as well.

Other Places to Go in 2011

Santiago, Chile: This interesting and underrated capital city recently added a modern museum, boutique hotels and sophisticated restaurants. The music festival Lollapalooza held annually in Chicago took place here in April for the first time. The stunning landscape of Patagonia offers a different perspective on a fascinating country.

Iceland: Since the country's financial crisis in 2008, this beautiful island nation has become much more affordable. It is a must-see for nature lovers with its glaciers and Northern Lights. A symphony and opera house are just two of the cultural offerings.

Nice, France: This beautiful city is a great home base for touring the French Riviera and Provence. Blessed with a moderate climate and light that people marvel at, Nice is also full of cultural attractions. Visitors could easily spend a week here exploring the narrow, flagstone streets of the Old Town (Vieux Nice), the Chagall and Matisse museums, and the Russian Cathedral. The waterfront is also spectacular with great celebrity watching!

Destinations to Watch

Egypt: Despite the recent uprising and government change, Egypt is stabilized and is offering wonderful travel bargains. Welcoming back tourists is an important step in rebuilding the nation's economy. Look to Egypt to be a great travel value and an interesting tourist destination for the next year.

Tunisia: Not many people consider visiting this North African country. The recent "Jasmine Revolution" culminated in the ousting of Tunisian president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and sent shock waves throughout the Middle East. However, Tunisia has always been known for its openness to the West. Hopefully, more of us will include Tunisia in our travel plans for the future as we see how events here and in neighboring countries unfold.

Happy travels in 2011!

Louise C. Berger
Great Explorations Travel
Vacations for Savvy Travelers

780 Greenwood Avenue
Glencoe, IL 60022
847.835.2854

louise@greatexplorationstravel.net
www.greatexplorationstravel.net