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DUPE pacec Fravelon: Easter. In. A, Warm, Climate, I have come to grips with the fact that seasons seem to be changing and winter is just not what it used to be. However, there is still a great deal to be said for heading south and relaxing in a quaint village where the temperature is guaranteed to be hot. One of my favourite destinations is the picturesque village of Antigua in Guatemala, especially at Easter. Virtually untouched since its origin in the late sixteen hun- Little sisters in downtown Antigua, Guatemala. dreds, Antigua is a quaint village of colourful houses, small shops and wonderful restaurants. And for those who want a beach, it’s only an hour or so from the resort area of Lake Atitlan. Getting there is simple. American Airlines, although their planes are not very comfortable, gets you there in just under 7 hours, which includes a layover in Miami. Your basic flying time is 5 hours. Guatemala is a poor country, having been successfully rid of civil war for only twelve years. | found the people extremely friendly and the places of interest are pristine and free from typi- cal tourist debris. Antigua is 90 minutes from the airport and once you are there you feel as if you have been transported back in time. | stayed at the Porta Hotel, a mere five minute walk from the town square. The hotel caters to the seasoned traveler and has a wonderful swimming pool, clean, modern restaurants with exceptional cuisine (I love to eat) and spacious rooms. 05. MAY 64 FINAL FINAL.indd 63 Antigua is the kind of village where you can spend three or four days and be totally oblivious to the goings- ‘on around the world. Long, pleasant strolls along cobbled streets doing nothing more than gazing in shop windows or admiring local architecture is an extremely relaxing way to spend a few days. There are many clothing shops, which offer the latest in local fashion, jade factories, which create jewellery that begs to be purchased and all at reasonable cost. Tourism has not yet reached a point where greed has escalated prices beyond reach. | especially enjoyed the square in the centre of the town. Large shade trees kept the hot temperatures at bay. Everyone was preparing for Easter, a time very special to Guatemalans and a bustle is noticeable everywhere. Lunch- time around the square brings out busy chatter about the planned festivities, all while enjoying an ice cream. The colourful clothes of the ladies add a festive mood. Each village in Guatemala has its own colour combination for fabric, creating a pleasant uniformity to the area. Kids are kids anywhere in the world and Antigua is no excep- tion. The cute and friendly smiles are a surefire recipe for receiving candy, but most were intrigued to view photos Please turn to page 64 Guatemalan women dress in colourful costumes as can be seen in this picture taken of three women out walking. FOCUS - MAY 2012 63 12-04-23 8:30AM