Arriving in the “Land of Eternal Spring”—welcome to Guatemala, the heart of the ancient Maya civilization and a country of stunning volcanic landscapes. There are around 18 million people living here, and the capital is Guatemala City, the largest metropolis in Central America. The official language is Spanish, though over 20 different Mayan languages are spoken throughout the highlands.

Guatemala covers about 108,889 square kilometers (42,042 square miles). That’s roughly the same size as the state of Tennessee in the U.S., or about the same size as Bulgaria in Europe.

The most popular sport is Football, followed closely by Futsal. Their national animal is the Quetzal, a magnificent bird with long, shimmering green tail feathers that was sacred to the ancient Maya and now serves as the name of the national currency.

The flag consists of two blue vertical stripes on the outside with a white stripe in the middle and the national coat of arms at the center, where the blue represents the two oceans surrounding the country and the white symbolizes purity and peace.

The food is a delicious fusion of Spanish and Mayan traditions. You must try Pepián, a rich, spicy meat stew made with roasted seeds and peppers—it is considered the national dish. Another favorite is Antojitos, like Chuchitos (Guatemalan-style tamales), often enjoyed with a cup of world-famous Guatemalan coffee or hot chocolate, which the Maya have been drinking for thousands of years.

Guatemala is home to Tikal, one of the largest and most powerful archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization, featuring towering limestone temples that peek out above the jungle canopy. The country is also home to Lake Atitlán, which is often described as the most beautiful lake in the world, surrounded by three massive volcanoes and colorful indigenous villages. If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike the Acatenango Volcano to watch the nearby Fuego Volcano erupt with lava in the middle of the night! Another natural wonder is Semuc Champey, a series of stepped, turquoise limestone pools hidden deep in the jungle. Guatemala is also the birthplace of the Blue Denim fabric (the inventor of the dye process was Guatemalan) and the Instant Coffee process.

From the cobblestone streets of Antigua to the misty cloud forests of the Verapaces, Guatemala is a land of vibrant textiles, ancient mysteries, and breathtaking nature. ¡Gracias! That means “Thank you!”