In many ways Guatemala is Central America all rolled into one.
Much of the country lives under a hot tropical climate, its geography
spanning the Caribbean in the east to the Pacific in the south,
and mountains in the central highlands to vast lowlands in the north.
It is unfortunate that its very geography and natural assets are
the cause of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and flooding that have
taken their toll over the years, yet its people have survived and
today represent a fascinating variety of cultures. Guatemala has
a strong Mayan ascendancy dating back to the 3rd century BC, traces
of African religion along its Caribbean coast and a marked Spanish
colonial influence throughout. It's therefore easy to see why it
attracts a large number of visitors including many who want to stop
a while, soak it all up and learn the language.
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