After checking out of my birthday villa, I took a quick two-minute lancha ride to Free Cerveza, an eco-friendly hostel, to spend my final two nights at Lake Atitlán. In hindsight, I’m starting to think I should’ve done these two stays in reverse order...

Next, I headed to Antigua—a picturesque Spanish colonial city brimming with museums, restaurants, and shops. It’s truly a tourist’s haven. With its lava cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and incredible food scene, it’s no surprise this gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To dive deeper into Guatemalan history, I joined a free walking tour with Happy Harold, who brought the city’s rich history and culture to life. He was so entertaining and, true to his name, so happy! Definitely a 10/10 tour.

But, of course, no trip is complete without a little chaos. Just when everything seemed picture-perfect, disaster struck… below the belt. And, of all nights, it happened right before my Acatenango Volcano overnight hike—a must-do experience in Guatemala if you’re up for it.

Let’s just say it became a cautionary tale of what not to do before tackling the country’s most iconic trek. But hey, what’s an adventure without a few hiccups? Between the laughs, lessons, and jaw-dropping views, this trip has already secured its spot as one for the books.

I should get some rest now because tomorrow I’m up early for my flight to… El Salvador!

00:25 Villa Vibes to Hostel Horrors

01:17 Hostel Horrors: Katie's Experience at Free Cerveza

03:01 Grace's Nightmare Hostel Story in Bali

08:35 Kayaking and Hiking Misadventures

10:59 Preparing for the Volcano Hike: Tips and Warnings

16:50 Antigua Adventures: Exploring the Town and Its History

24:00 Tourism and Inequality in Guatemala

25:30 Challenges and Hopes for Guatemala's Future

31:06 Volcano Hike

42:50 Conclusion and Credits



Season 1, Episode 2, Links

Free Cervesa Hostel

Barbara’s Boutique Hostel

Shuttle between Lake Atitlán and Antigua

Free Walking Tour with Happy Harold

Rincón antigüeño

Sources

Poverty Stats

Children living in poverty

Corruption

Discrimination

This podcast was recorded under a SAG-AFTRA Agreement.
Broad Abroad is a production of Gotham West Studios. All rights reserved.