All U.S. citizens must use a valid passport when traveling between Guatemala and the United States. Passports must have at least 6 months validity or risk getting turned away by the airline or by immigration. Dual nationals may be able to enter Guatemala on a 2nd nationality passport, but will not be permitted to board a return flight to the U.S. without a U.S. passport.
Currency in Antigua is called a Quetzal. The standard exchange rate to US dollar is 7.5 to 1. While US dollars are widely accepted throughout Antigua, it is not an official currency so there are places that will not accept it. You also run the risk of getting swindled as it's a bit tough to calculate the exchange rate on the spot. If you want to use US dollars, they will need to be NEW and FRESH bills. If you plan to use Quetzals, our recommendation is to take money out of an ATM when you arrive in Antigua. If you exchange at the airport, you will lose a fair amount of money in the exchange rate. (REMINDER: call your debit and credit card banks before traveling to alert them of your use in Guatemala!)
A little tip goes a long way - we recommend 10%. Please also check your bill as they will often add gratuity on the check and you don't want to double tip!
The weather is always a bit unpredictable. The real point here though is temperature: it can get as high as 80F during the day and low around 60F at night. Bring layers!
SHOES: I cannot stress this enough: pack comfortable walking shoes! Antigua is an old, colonial city that has not been updated over the years. The roads and sidewalks are all cobblestone...and not the tiny cute kind of cobblestone...big and cumbersome cobblestone. If you wear the wrong shoes and do not pay attention, you can easily twist an ankle. I know we all want to look cute, but please be smart. You'll be walking quite a bit.
HEALTH & SAFETY: Please be aware that standard of health and safety in Guatemala are different than in the US: • Medical Facilities: In general, private hospitals are more reliable than public facilities. Please note that immediate cash payment is expected for health services. • It's best to stay on the safe side and only drink purified water, known as “agua pura” which can be accessed at nearly all restaurants, bars, etc. • Try to avoid eating street food...duh! • Always wear sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun in Central America is extremely strong, we recommend using at least SPF 30 or above and wearing a hat. • Use mosquito repellent especially when going to the Lake Atitlan, hiking up Pacaya Volcano or joining a Coffee Tour. • Safety: As you should do when traveling anywhere, please use your common sense. Don’t wear eye-catching jewelery or carry big cameras out in the open. Please don’t leave your handbags unwatched in restaurants or cafés. • Feel free to contact us or Silke our wedding planner in case you feel insecure or nervous on your activities, or if you want to report any concerns to us. info@brideandgroomgt.com