Guatemala Flights and Travel Guide

Language

The official language is Spanish but English is understood in hotels and tourist destinations. Many indigenous languages are also spoken.

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Money

The official currency is the Quetzal (GTQ) divided into 100 centavos. In 2001 the U.S. dollar became the second official currency alongside the Quetzal and both are accepted. Travelers checks and major credit cards are accepted, though some more than others. Cash exchange is easier, but more risky. Visitors are not advised to exchange money at the informal booths on the street. There are ATMs in the towns and cities, which accept Visa and MasterCard.

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Communications

The international access code for Guatemala is +502. The outgoing code depends on what network is used to dial out on (e.g. 13000 for Telefonica or 14700 for Telgua), which is followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00130001 for the US). City codes are not required. There are generally surcharges on calls made from hotels and it is cheaper to use calling cards. Rates are generally less expensive after 7pm. Mobile phones work in the major towns and cities on a GSM network, but check that your network operator has a roaming agreement covering Guatemala. Internet cafes are available in the main tourist areas.

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Tipping

Generally a 15 percent tip is recommended. It is customary to tip waiters if a service charge hasn't been added to the bill. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped. Hotel staff and tour guides expect to be tipped for their services.

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Safety

The rate of violent crime is exceptionally high in the country. There has also been a relatively high rate of violent attacks on tourists, especially in remote places and in the capital, Guatemala City. Visitors need to be particularly vigilant in the central Zone 1 of Guatemala City where most of the cheap hotels and bus terminals are, and in all parts of the city at night.

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Health

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Guatemala and travelers are advised to take the latest medical advice at least three weeks prior to departure. Malaria is prevalent in the low-lying areas outside Guatemala City and dengue fever is endemic. Other risks include rabies, typhoid, Hepatitis Aand cholera. Dysentery and other diarrheal diseases are common; visitors should be careful what they eat and stick to bottled water. Guatemalan hospitals are unlikely to give medical treatment unless the patient has medical insurance or can pay up front. Good travel insurance is therefore essential. State-funded hospitalsbest avoided, travelers should only use private clinics where possible. A yellow fever certificate is required from travelers entering the country from infected areas.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 110 volts, 60Hz. A variety of plugs are in use including the flat two-pin, flat three-pin and the UK-style three-pin.

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