Day 58 - Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala

Along with the two remaining ports in Mexico, Puerto Quetzal is among our last excursions in Latin America. Having never visited Guatemala, we weren't sure what to expect, but figured it would be similar to our other ports in South America. Although most seemed to have similar backgrounds and social issues, all were exciting experiences with unique cultural differences. Today's excursion was long, so we were up early, well rested, full of energy and ready to go. 

Both Joan and I are chronologically enhanced and not in the best of shape. For this reason we avoid strenuous excursions like Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls and opt for choices better matching our capabilities. This is not an easy decision, but given our situation, it is the best and definitely wise choice. 

The day began with a ninety minute bus ride to Antigua Guatemala and transfer to a smaller bus. The second bus took us deeper into the city for a drop-off. About five hours later, a different bus would pick us, transfer us back to the original bus and take us back to the ship. I had not realized this was actually a walking tour. To make things more difficult, it was a hot humid day and the elevation was 5,029 feet. We were now on the second bus and committed. There was no turning back. We could not stay on the bus. We were in trouble. What had I done? Our only choice was to continue and endure. 

The first destination was the ruins of San Jose Cathedral. Construction of the original cathedral began in 1545 with the replacement completed in 1680. All was destroyed during the 1773 earthquake. Volcanoes and earthquakes are common in Guatemala. Earlier in the excursion we passed the active volcano Fuego. On June 5, 2018 it erupted killing over 1,500 people, destroyed an entire village and multimillion dollar golf resort. More could have been saved, but people became complacent and refused to heed the warnings. Life is a continuous battle against mother nature. It appears odds are against us as eventually she wins. It took eleven years for man to build San Jose Cathedral and only seven minutes for mother nature to destroy. 

While walking the streets we saw many interesting structures, fountains and parks often with a small contingent of local vendors. Most were older indigenous people selling their colorful craftwork. They were relentless salespeople, but it was important to treat them with understanding and respect as the monies received is often their only source of disposable income. They were definitely resourceful. 

Our tour covered lots of territory and at least two members began showing fatigue. The streets were cobblestone, sidewalks narrow and plenty of tripping hazards to avoid. We must have been looking bad as our fellow travelers kept checking on us, offering to help and making sure we had plenty of water. We definitely appreciated their thoughtfulness, endured on and took advantage of every available bench. At one gathering point, a local even offered Joan a chair. 

There were many memorable areas but Casa Santo Domingo is probably my favorite. Once a former convent, it too was destroyed by an earthquake, but since restored into a hotel with gardens. I could have spent the entire day admiring how the old ruins were enhanced by the newly repaired. The old was not removed or covered up. The new was blended with the old. Usefulness and function were restored. Both could be appreciated together including existing cracks, defects and patina. Together they were better than the individual parts. 

Joan and I were very fortunate and enjoyed lunch with our guide Manny. He is very enthusiastic and a hard working family man. Like many of us, he too has endured several hard life lessons. We agreed the best approach is to learn from the mistakes, do what is right and keep moving forward. 

Although I will probably never have the opportunity, I would enjoy visiting Guatemala again. The visit changed my perspective on all of Latin America. We shouldn't focus on what is, but direct our efforts on what needs to be. Don't get caught up in the volcano of misinformation. You may not survive the eruption. In life, stuff happens. Blame does not have to be delegated. Everything cannot be controlled. Years of effort can be destroyed in a moment and everything comes tumbling down. There are times for receiving help and many more times to offer. Always be understanding and respectful of others. We are all just doing our best to survive. Despite our differences, working together we can build something special. The results will be more beautiful and stronger than anything accomplished by working alone. Thank you Latin America for sharing your wisdom.