Be the Change: Guatemala!

Prior to heading to Antigua, Guatemala, I didn't know what to expect. I didn't do as much research as I normally would have, so it made everything a little bit more of a surprise. :) But let me tell you, if you're looking for a quaint little town, towering volcanoes, cobblestone streets, and houses splashed with color, Antigua is the place to go. Guatemala is also known for it's coffee, and there are more than enough coffee shops where you can get your caffeine fix!

cruising the streets

typical view in Antigua

The architecture of the city is beautiful, especially that of the churches. Because of an earthquake that happened in the 70's, there are many ruins throughout the town, but that's exactly what makes this city so unique. I could have spent hours staring at the scene at the Saturday morning market. With the sky, the ruins, and the colors, I really couldn't stop staring. :)

One of many of the city's churchs

Saturday morning market

They even had little horse buggies

love it :)

A twenty minute hike from the city and you can reach the top of a hill with a pretty awesome view. Overlooking the city from one side is a massive cross; overlooking the city from the other side is a volcano. Pretty sure I know what side I want to be on!

Cerro de la cruz

Love this place

The wedding we were there for was absolutely beautiful. It was very unique for the couple who got married and was held in a 300 year old convent. There was even a mariachi band. :)

Mariachi Band!

On Sunday, we hiked to Pacaya Volcano which is one of seven active volcanoes in Guatemala. Without a doubt, it was one of the foggiest hikes I've ever been on. But with that being said, just as we arrived at the base of the volcano, the clouds cleared and gave us an absolutely perfect view. Although it was short lived, the timing could not have been better. And since it's an active volcano, we were able to roast marshmallows directly over the volcanic rocks and make smores. Smore what? Not gonna lie, it was pretty sweet. :)

Let's hope this thing doesn't erupt!

can u say fog?

too bad i don't really eat smores :)

Antigua is famous for it's Catholic celebration of Holy Week throughout the world. Although we fell just short of Holy Week itself, we were still able to see one of the religious processions the city does in the weeks leading up to Holy Week. There are hundreds of processional carriers responsible for carrying the floats; one being the first float with Jesus, shortly thereafter followed by the women carrying the float of Mary. Thank God we literally stumbled upon this procession, it really was a wonderful sight to see.