Day in Antigua

Our first full day in Guatemala happened to be a Sunday, meaning that we were not needed at the hospital. We decided to spend our day in Antigua, the original capital city. We left early this morning and spent about an hour on the bus. We first walked around a little market just outside of Antigua and purchased some souvenirs. Up next was a visit R. Dalton's Filadelfia Estate, a local coffee plantation. We were led by Carlos through the entire process of how coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted. After the tour, we tasted the coffee (which was delicious) and purchased some in the gift shop. By that time we had worked up an appetite, so we ventured to a traditional restaurant in Antigua, Fonda de la Calle Real. The food was delicious, and it was clearly a great place to eat as Marie Jose and Paul sat in chairs that were formerly used by Charlie Sheen and a former president of Guatemala. We then walked around and explored Antigua and its market. At 5 PM there was a procession in observance of the first Sunday of lent. It was great to see so many people and to be immersed in their culture. We visited the Jade museum, and we learned that it is so strong it can only be cut by diamond. Following the museum tour, we went to a bakery and pastry shop, which was delicious. By that time, it was getting dark, so we headed back to Guatemala City. We are now going to rest up for our first day of work at the hospital! - Jessica

The view from the top of the coffee mill, complete with coffee beans drying on the rooftop:

The view of the Cathedral in Antigua with people beginning to congregate to watch the parade: