Arrived in Guetemala

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Hello,

Well as you are probably all aware I have arrived in Guetemala via a very long flight.

I am here in Antigua for three weeks. The reason; to learn Spanish.

I am staying in a homestay. It is owned by a woman in her 50´s called Tina who appears to be living there alone. She is very sweet but speaks no English so our interactions are brief and incomprehensible. I am sure after a few more days at Spanish school i will have more to say, I hope!

I am having 4 hours of Spanish lessons per day and it is, "¡Muchos dificil!" but hopefully once I have got my head around the grammar things will start flowing.



Antigua is an amazing city. It is 1500m above sea level set amongst Volcanoes (some still active). It feels very European due to the large Spanish influence here. It was once the Capital city of Guetemala but was devastated by an Earthquake in the 18th Century and was abandoned.

Fortunately it again has been repopulated and there is now a huge amount of work carried out in restoring the damaged architecture which again took another hit in the 1970´s from another Earthquake.

Tourism is the main income in this area and the city is maintained well and is very clean. There is a strong Police presence in the main tourist areas, especially at night.

The main square is beautiful at night with thousands of fairly lights decorating the trees.

I attended a walking tour yesterday and it was amazing to explore behind the exterior walls of the houses. There are some real surprises. Plenty of interesting art galleries and museums for me to explore. I think I will easily fill my time here.

The main export here is Coffee and I have been sampling some at a few of the many cafes here.

as some of you are aware I though that I had broken my toe on the first day as I tripped on the cobbled streets and had a very painful toe. Fortunately I am now able to walk normally and only have a bruise to show for my effort. I am very relieved and am off in search of a salsa school today now that I am able to dance.

A new student arrived yesterday to the Homestay. he is and American 24 year old. Seems pretty keen to explore so hopefully we can get out on some day trips together. he spent the whole of last night on the loo, poor boy.

I will keep you all up to date on how things go, hopefully no more injuries.

Much Love

Clare xxx

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Comments

[Jayne]

Ouch
Glad all is o.k. Apart from toe.thanx heaps for Downton always remember you are also family & this is your home too x take care