QUEST

The Arco de
Santa Catalina
DAY ONE
after landing in guatemala city, head
straight for antigua. Surrounded by three volcanoes,
Antigua is one of the world’s best-preserved
colonial towns and feels like a world away from the city
sprawl. Pastel walls line cobblestone streets that lead
to colonial-era churches and mansions in this UNESCO
World Heritage Site.
The Rose suite
at Posada del
Angel
PRO
TIP!
Take a tuk tuk up to Antigua’s
lookout point called Cerro de
la Cruz for gorgeous views of
the city. -Trista Gage, Designer
Check into Posada del Angel. Tucked away on a quiet
street, the elegant seven-room boutique hotel is a favorite
hideaway among the world’s dignitaries. Details such as
large, old-fashioned room keys, hand-woven Guatemalan
fabrics, antique four-poster beds and wrought-iron
headboards lend authenticity to the building which was
once a Spanish colonial casona.
Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with Antigua
on a private walking tour through the city, exploring
the Spanish colonial architecture and art. Foodies can
also visit a chocolate museum and learn how to prepare
chocolate from a time-honored Mayan recipe, or visit
a working coffee hacienda to learn about the country’s
most famous export. At sunset, enjoy a rooftop cocktail.
Fans of craft beer can head to Antigua Brewing
Company for a nice menu of sandwiches, burgers and
appetizers to complement their local, artisanal beers.
From their terrace, you’ll have a 360° view of the city and
three volcanoes. Keep your eye on the horizon. The lava
below gives it a warm, red glow after the sun goes down.
Photos courtesy of Austin Mann | iStock | Posada del Angel
60 KER & DOWNEY