Arriving in Antigua

It was a 45 minute tax ride from Guatemala City. Antigua is a cute and bustling city in Guatemala. The cobblestone streets give it a quaint, old world feel and the colorful painted homes and shops have the welcoming appeal that is customary in Latin and Central America.

You must use common sense and caution when crossing the streets because there are no formal lights, pedestrian crossings and motor vehicles simply don’t stop.

It’s only my first day in Antigua and by 4pm I was still getting situated with staying connected. I had purchased a local SIM card that I wanted to use as a mobile hotspot in the city, but I needed an unlocked device so that it would work. One of the hosts where I’m staying suggested I get a new phone to use while I’m here. So I ventured out, walking down the main street Calzada Santa Lucia Sur where there was lots of hustle and bustle. My eyes danced around at all the activity in the street but I stayed focused and found a shop selling electronics where I bought a phone I could use. I’m almost ashamed to say that I ate dinner at a local Dominos. Try not to judge me. It was quick, familiar and close to where I was staying. I also ending up buying a few snacks for later from a tienda.

Everything I needed was in walking distance and the highlight of the day was buying fruit from a local vendor on my way back to the house. I got mango and jocote, a fruit which was new to me. I was offered spice, salt and pepitoria to which I said yes to in spite of having no idea in the moment why all those were being added to my fruit but wanting to experience it the way the locals do.

I later learned that pepitoria is ground squash seeds and I still have no idea what purpose it serves on top of fruit because it didn’t taste like much to me. For now, I’m excited for this adventure I’m on and can’t wait to explore more tomorrow!