Not to be confused with the Caribbean island of similar name, Antigua Guatemala is a must-see gem if you are travelling in Central America.

The former colonial Spanish capital of this part of the world in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site with preserved colonial Spanish architecture of breathtaking beauty. Pictured above are the arrival port of Puerto Quetzal, a local market, Parque Central and some of the downtown highlights.

Safe and easy to get around

Antigua is featured as a shore excursion on some cruise ship itineraries and certainly it can be done in one day. However, it is also worthy of a longer stay to soak up its charms. Considered a much safer destination than the capital, Guatemala City, Antigua is often used as a base from which to visit other parts of Guatemala and Central America.

It is a joy to wander through this lovely town and worth braving the persistent street vendors - mostly girls - who will pursue you relentlessly. If you try to shake them off by promising to look at their wares on your way back, they will ask for your name - and remember it when you return!

Lifestyle

There are numerous restaurants in Antigua boasting diverse cuisines including traditional Guatemalan, as well as a number of boutique hotels. For those interested in learning the local language, there are literally hundreds of Spanish language schools. The climate is warm and inviting and the cost of living relatively low, prompting a number of cashed-up retirees from the USA and elsewhere to settle there.

Multiple entry points

For most travellers Antigua is best seen on an organised tour or as a diversion when travelling in Guatemala, or take a shore excursion from a cruise around Central America. Make your own independent arrangements if you are adventurous. Antigua can be reached easily from Guatemala City and from the port of Puerto Quetzal and other Pacific and Caribbean ports where cruise ships call.

http://aroundantigua.com/