Travel Agent - May 12, 2008 - (Page 44)

DESTINATIONS CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA GUATEMALA PANAMA, BELIZE, COSTA RICA, ECUADOR AND EVEN COLOMBIA have been stealing much of the spotlight in Latin America lately. Although the attention is well deserved, Travel Agent wanted to share some tips on booking another spectacular—and perhaps somewhat neglected—Latin America destination: Guatemala. Ideal for clients craving a little culture, Guatemala is “the heartland of the Mayan world,” says Evelyn Davidson, marketing coordinator for the Guatemala Tourist Board’s U.S, Canada and Asia markets. The northern Department of Peten is home to Tikal, declared a Heritage of Humanity site by UNESCO. On the Caribbean side is the archaeological site of Quirigua, also a Heritage of Humanity Site. Guatemala is the only country in Central America with a living Mayan culture, says Davidson. Clients can visit the towns and villages in the highlands where the ancient customs still remain and may be seen in all of the local markets. There are 22 ethnic groups living in Guatemala that speak 23 different Mayan-based languages, says Davidson. On the Caribbean coast, the population is Afro-Caribbean and the people are known as garifunas. Guatemala, in general, is full of forests, fauna and flora, making it perfect for your ecofriendly clients. For the adventurous traveler, it has white-water rafting, rappelling, hiking, mountain biking, volcano climbing and water sports. It is an increasingly popular destination for baby boomers, retirees and families, but also younger travelers who like a bit of adventure. . which calls at Guatemala’s Pacific port, and Holland America Line (www.hollandamerica.com), which calls at the destination’s Atlantic port. BY JOE PIKE La Antigua and other historic sites make this country perfect for culture cravers Where to Stay Guatemala City is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Central America, with both five-star and boutique hotels and many excellent restaurants with international and national menus. And while we’re sure you’ve heard about Antigua in the Caribbean, are you up to speed with La Antigua, Guatemala? Commonly known simply as Antigua, it is a colonial city that still has the original cobblestone streets and the ruins of churches, monasteries and convents from when it was the Spanish capital of Central America. Antigua is also known for the quality of its Spanish schools and, in fact, AGENTADVICE “The must-see in Antigua is the city itself,” says Metzy De Hanis of American Travel Outlet, a travel agency in northern Virginia. “You can walk through the stone streets observing its houses, churches, squares, parks and ruins, and most of all have the opportunity to interact with its people. “The destination is ideal for all types of people—older, couples, younger and families,” she continues. “It is a perfect place to celebrate a wedding or [hold] business events. The history that this city has to offer is for everyone; once you are here, you feel connected with the past. Just pick the dates and Antigua is waiting for you.” Agents looking to contact the Guatemala Tourist Board can e-mail Evelyn Davidson (edavidson@inguat.gob.gt) or visit www.visitguatemala.com for more information. Cruising For cruising, Guatemala has ports on the Atlantic (approximately five hours from Guatemala City) and on the Pacific (about 90 minutes from Guatemala City). Some of the cruise lines that visit its ports are Princess Cruises (www.princess.com), 44 | TravelAgent May 12, 2008 http://www.hollandamerica.com http://www.visitguatemala.com http://www.princess.com

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Travel Agent - May 12, 2008 Online Now Contents Contributors From the Editor From the Publisher Europe: Bruges Might be One of Belgium’s Best-Kept Secrets Hawaii: Condo Resorts Provide a Plethora of Vacation Choices Pacific/Asia: Manila has Plenty to Offer Visitors of Every Taste Alaska: Icy Strait Point Offers Authentic Alaskan Adventure Pacific Northwest: Airplane Buffs and Wine Aficionados Enjoy Washington Las Vegas: Let Your Hair Down at Some of these Casual Bars Central & South America: History and Culture Beckon in Guatemala Caribbean & The Bahamas: Recent Renovations Have Made the Westin Aruba Resort a Jewel of the Island Cruises: A New Musical is Making Waves on Disney Wonder San Diego Becomes a Major Cruise Port Cover Story: Top Tips for Selling in a Down Economy Rail Travel: Sightseeing and a Gourmet Meal on the Royal Livingstone Express Hotels: There is Plenty to Do at Ski Resorts in the Summer Tours: Photos from the 33rd Annual Mountain Travel Symposium Agent: Eric Ardolino has Won the Technology War Customer Relations: Ensemble Agents use CRM tools Agenda: Fam Trips, Deals & Incentives, Calendar Luxury Travel Expo Jamaica Will License Casinos Enormous Cruise Ships are Planned ResortQuest Hawaii Continues to Grow 2008 TMU Conference Recap In the Spotlight Agent Access Classified Marketplace Editorial Index Advertising Index Trendwatch

Travel Agent - May 12, 2008

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