Amazing Guatemala!
Guatemala
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May 27 - Jun 4, 2022
I had been to Antigua 23 years ago as a backpacker and I couldn't wait to take my family there, but in a more structured way. Edouardo streamlined the whole process and I felt safe and taking care of. As early as the first email (which came in very quickly), he had taken the time to organize a trip with a variety of activities (from challenging to informative) based on our likes and dislikes. We had to tweak it a bit and within 2 weeks, we had a plan and we were booked. Our driver Vinni was full of energy and radiated positivity. His English was surprisingly good and we got a ton of information about the area. Our Guide Pepian (which is a nickname based on the most delicious food ever!) was very kind and patient with us and our kids. He checked on us multiple times during the activities and was participating like it was his first time. His enthusiasm and love for his country were contagious and we had the best time. They also were very good at accomodating our diet restrictions (GF, DF). After a couple of days, we all agreed that to hike Acetenango was maybe too challenging for our daughter, so at that point, Eduardo, with the help of Pepian, pivoted quickly, booked us a hotel (we were originally supposed to camp on the volcano) and found other activities for us to do instead. We don't feel like we wasted time at all. It was amazing and I don't regret using kimkim and we feel like we now have friends in Guatemala.
If you go to Guatemala and you can only do ONE activity, do the coffee farm from De La Gente. But honestly, I would rate all activities above a 9/10 (hike, bike, kayak, tours). We will be back for sure!
Hotel Reviews
It was nice and clean. The breakfast was great! The internet wasn't very good however. The beds were super hard, but I think that is just how mattress are in Guatemala.
Choose a room towards the front to get the best WIFI.
It was damp and there was no sheet on the couch/beds for our kids. However, they were quick at bringing some. There was a lot of cobwebs and spiders in the beds. It's kind of expected given its Guatemala but still... Water came through the door upstairs during the rain. I am glad we were there for only one night. Also, make sure you shower at night because there is no hot water in the morning.
People with pretty much low expectation
This hotel is right in the middle of a couple bars and it is very loud until 1230. We didn't sleep much even with earplugs. The WIFI was good. The layout is weird as the shower opens directly in the room so there is little privacy. It does have a pool but its cold. We enjoyed the sauna though. The fountain is missing so it makes it look run down. We enjoyed the breakfast and the staff was kind and helpful. Our room had amazing views of the volcanoes.
Make sure you don't require a lot of sleep or a lot of quiet time.
Activity Reviews
Marybel was knowledgeable and very kind.
Very cool views and the guides were nice. They could have loosen up, but we liked it anyway.
The marshmallow and the pizza toped it off nicely. Because its rainy season, we didn't have the best views, but we enjoyed it nonetheless.
By far, the best experience of our trip. Eating with them in his house and getting to grind our own cup the artisanal way is something we will remember forever.
Thank you very much for each work on this feedback. I am very happy to hear that you liked what we have proposed for this program for your and your kids.
We feel satisfied that you have enjoyed the destinations. Antigua and Lake Atitlan for 9 days.
I will be sure to pass your cheers and feelings about the program to our guides and drivers. as well as our partners for their services that are an important part of our programs too.
Abrazos de Guatemala.
Eduardo Celada
[email protected]