Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(6 Av, Centro Comercial Chagüila; Sandwiches Q30-45; 6am-10pm)
Popular with Guatemalan tourists,
this makes a decent neutral choice - a clean, modern establishment with decorative nods
to local culture and filling
típica
breakfasts. Service is on the clueless side.
GUATEMALAN
Casa de San Juan $$
( 7756-2086; 6a Av 7-28; mains Q60; 9:30am-9:30pm Tue-Sun)
One of the more stylish eateries,
the San Juan occupies a beautiful colonial structure beside Santo Tomás with seating in
various salons. Offerings range from burgers and sandwiches to more traditional fare, in-
cluding good
chiles rellenos
laced with zesty salsa.
Mayan Inn $$
( 5966 9127; 8a Calle A 1-91; mains Q70-90; 7am-10pm)
The three dining rooms at Chichi's
classiest hotel feature colonial-style furnishings and canvases by Guatemala's most
renowned painter, Humberto Garabito. Waiters wear costumes evolved from the dress of
Spanish colonial farmers. The food is less traditional - steak platters, roast chicken, mixed
grills - though lavishly presented and abundantly served.
GUATEMALAN
Shopping
Ut'z Bat'z
(8a Calle 3-14)
This 'fair-trade' shop by the plaza's southwest corner displays the work of a
local women's cooperative of 30 weavers, and sells scarves, shawls, table runners, bags
and pillows.
HANDICRAFTS
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
Hola, amigo!
is the refrain you'll hear from the myriad vendors and touts who depend on
tourism for their livelihood; it can wear you down, but try to be polite. Ignore touts offer-
ing assistance in finding a hotel; in fact, you'll have no difficulty finding lodgings on your
own.
Chichi is plagued by traffic and exhaust fumes. Keep an eye out for buses tearing
around corners.
