I’m Katie, and traveling the world is basically my main personality trait. I just got back from my latest adventure—Guatemala and El Salvador—and I can’t wait to overshare every juicy detail with my desk-mate Grace (whether she likes it or not).

On this trip, I turned the big 3-0, leveled up my Spanish (hola, ¿cómo se dice “help”?), explored the fascinating culture of the local Mayans, surfed some gnarly waves, and dove deep into the recent political discourse in El Salvador.

This travel series has it all—laughs, learning, food that’ll make your mouth water, and moments so unforgettable they’ll have you reaching for your passport.

So, join me as we head south to Central America, meet incredible locals, and uncover how tourism is shaping their world. This is Broad Abroad!

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

Episode 1, Lake Atitlán: Volcanos, Culture, and Celebration

What better place to celebrate my 30th birthday than at Lake Atitlán, AKA the Lake Como of Central America. This place is pure magic—surrounded by three towering volcanoes and home to indigenous Mayan communities who craft the most beautiful handmade clothing and cook up mouthwatering local dishes.

I found the dreamiest (and budget-friendly!) Airbnb villa with jaw-dropping views of the lake and volcanos, and to make things even more special, I hired local chefs to whip up a feast twice a day. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off the trip!

The warmth of the people here, the vibrant culture, and the sheer beauty of the landscapes have completely stolen my heart. Guatemala isn’t just a hidden gem—it’s a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. If it’s not on your bucket list yet, trust me, it should be!

00:00 – Welcome to Broad Abroad

00:04 – Exploring Guatemala & El Salvador

02:22 – Travel Adventures & Reflections

03:16 – How Katie Planned Her Big 3-0 Bash 🎉

07:09 – First Impressions of Guatemala

10:11 – Magical Moments at Lake Atitlán

12:56 – ATV Town-Hopping

15:28 – Crafts & Culture: Weaving & Pottery 🧶

17:41 – Katie’s Birthday Bash Highlights 🎂

24:20 – Jewelry Shopping & Local Life

29:43 – Reflections & Farewell Feels

Pack your bags and get ready to wander with Katie in this inspiring and playful episode of Broad Abroad!

Links

Air BnB, Villa Patziac

ATV tour with Simoon Rentals & Tours

Avianca Airlines

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

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.