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Published: January 18th 2008
Lago De Atitlan
Sunset from PanajachelWe've had 3 nights by Lago de Atitlan, a huge lake formed thousands of years ago in a crater left by a collapsing volcano. We've been to a nature reserve with spider monkeys, coffee plantation, banana trees and a butterfly farm, but we only spotted 5 butterflies! Met a lovely belgium girl who we have been travelling with. We swam in the lake in our underwear as we forgot our swimsuits! lovely clear water.
Yesterday we spent on the lake visiting 3 villages by boat and enjoying the sunshine. Today we went to a HUGE market in Chichicastenango, about an hour away, which was lots of fun. Couldn't buy too much as our bags are already pretty full but Penny had her boots shined! We also went on a visit to some hot springs near Quatzaltenango which were bubbling with warm water flowing right out of the mountain! We visited some indian villages with a guide who told us about the local culture, farming practices, religious practices. The most bizarre thing was this much revered model thing called Saint Simon who is supposed to grant miracles and bring people luck, so they come from miles around to bring offerings of alcohol
Lakeside swim
Lago de Atitlan Nature Reserve and clothes etc. In fact its a dodgy wooden manequin with a false beard, big fat tie and gold chains, panama hat and bandana and big sunglasses!!! But still, there were people praying and chanting and giving him alcohol which gets poured into his mouth as he is tilted back! Totally weird!
Off tomorrow to Antigua, a beautiful town near more volcanos then up to some more mayan temple ruins in the jungle near Tikal. Having a fantastic time and time is flying by!
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Partha
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Dude...awesome blogs!!
Fab pics...you and Pennys' blogs continue to be our afternoon topic! ps Leeds....3rd in the table now!!