Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 4258-8882; 6a Calle A 4-08; s/d Q200/245; )
Right on the plaza, Maya Lodge has a colonial
atmosphere. Adorned with woven rugs and Maya-style bedspreads, the 10 huge rooms are
set alongside a patio dotted with rosebushes. Though it's a bit frayed at the edges, the wel-
coming attitude smooths things considerably.
Mayan Inn $$$
HOTEL
( 5966-9127;
www.mayaninn.com.gt
;
8a Calle A 1-91; s/d/tr Q865/1055/1150)
Founded in 1932, the
Inn today encompasses several restored colonial houses on either side of 8a Calle, their
courtyards planted with tropical flora, their walls draped in indigenous textiles. Each of
the 16 rooms is uniquely appointed, with carved armoires and fireplaces. Those on the
south side have the best views.
Hotel Santo Tomás $$$
( 7756-1061;
www.hotelsantotomas.com.gt
;
7a Av 5-32; s/d/tr Q745/865/1100; )
Popular with pack-
age holiday groups, this sprawling hotel is big on plant-filled patios, tinkling fountains
and religious relics, and each of the 70 rooms features a tub and fireplace. There's a good
bar and sumptuous dining room where marimba groups perform on market days.
HOTEL
Eating
As may be expected, most restaurants here remain empty when not occupied by tour
groups, with meek underage waiters hovering in the background. The real action is in the
central plaza, where attentive
abuelitas
(grandmas) ladle chicken soup, beef stew, tamales
and
chiles rellenos
from huge pots as their daughters and granddaughters minister to the
throngs of country folk sitting at long tables covered with oilcloth. At least four vendors
line up by the central fountain, where a
chuchito
- small tamal wrapped in a corn husk -
and chocolate will get you change from Q10. What are called
tamales
here are made of
rice and laced with sauce. Sliced watermelon and papaya can be had at other stalls. On
non-market evenings you'll find awesome enchiladas and
pupusas
in front of the town
hall, served with
atole de plátano,
a warm plantain beverage spiked with cinnamon.
Tziguan Tinamit $
GUATEMALAN
