Mexico, Central & South America travel on a budget??

[GopherGrad]

Justin,

You should plan to spend some time in the Highlands area of Guatemala. Antigua and Chichicastenango are definately "on the beaten path", but Quetzaltenango (also known as Xela (SHAY-la)) is one of my favorite cities ever. A little higher in the mountains, near Hueheutenango, there are a series of natural spas where you can rent cabins with semi-private pools. I can recommend specific, inexpensive but wonderful hospedajes in both Antigua and Xela.

While Xela isn't really on the gringo trail, there is a fair ex-pat presence there that can help you get involved in some volunteer activities that will allow the cultural exchange you're looking for.

Also, while Grenada, Nicaragua (on Lake Ometepe) is a bit touristy, it's entirely worth a bit of a stay.

[MichelleAlison]

Originally Posted by synthia

So I shouldn't show up in July expecting to find the same deal?

As I said, July is winter, although at the moment the weather is more like spring than autumn. If you don't mind living in a very quiet area, there are loads of good deals to be found. If you really want something, let me know. I have a cousin who has similar accommodation and only four blocks from the sea and 8 kms to the nearest town.

Michelle

[synthia]

Thanks, Michelle. If I can ever get myself together enough to decide what I want to do next...