TIkal

---

Guatemala is one of the most beautiful countries I have visited in my life. The people are generally friendly and genuine. It is also a good place to travel on a tight budget.
My trip began in Cayo district, Belize. At around 9:00am me and a few friends decided to catch a cab to the border of Belize and Guatemala. The 11 mile trip cost us a grand total of $5 BZD (~$2.50 US). The border crossing is pretty hassle-free, though you have to pay a $35 BZD exit fee from Belize and 10 quetzales entry fee into Guatemala. Once you hit Melchor the touts come out of every nook and cranny. All the taxis and van drivers are throwing offers this way and that, none of which are good deals. If you've asked around before leavin Belize, locals will tell you that there is a minivan that goes to Flores/Santa Elena from Melchor for 25 quetzales. Watch out for the guy who claims to work for the company that runs the minivan service. He'll try to convince you that it costs 50 quetzales. Ignore the touts and walk across the bridge up to town's edge and look for the minivan yourself.
Once you get to Santa Elena/Flores wander around and find a place to fit your taste. There are a small handful of budget accomidations there. I recommend Los Amigos youth hostel (~20 quetzales/night). The hostel has a wonderful vibe, with a ping-pong table, internet, and a fair-priced restaurant and bar. The staff is friendly and helpful, but you should polish your spanish skills, as they do not speak much english, if any. The staff will also point you in the right direction to find shuttle service to Tikal for a good price.
Flores is a pretty quiet island town, but one can find things to do on most nights. There are basketball tournaments and festivals in the town square on Friday and Saturday nights, and a few clubs for the nightlife enthusiasts.
Tikal will absolutely blow your mind, and is a must see for the traveler in Central America. Between climbing the multiple temples and wandering around the plazas, look to the trees for spider and howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, and toucans, but watch where you step, army ants are vicious little buggers.
When it comes time to leave just hike across the bridge to Santa Elena, or catch the little buggy-like taxis, to the bus station and catch a ride to your next destination.

---

Photos

Los Amigos
This is a great little hostel...and there are signs to help you find your way there!

Me, Bill, and Jamie
Overlooking the main plaza at Tikal