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I loved the urban feeling of Xela mixed with a slow town vibe. People say hi and cars will give pedestrians the right of way. It’s an ideal stop after being in a big city or if you’re just trying to chill.

Big city with a lot of history, restaurants and things to do. The weather is nice during the day, but gets chilli at night and a bit cold in the mornings. A visit to the hot spings is a must, as well as Chicabal volcano. The city feels safe, and walking in the old center of town after dinner outside is nice. I specially enjoyed visiting the central plaza, Pasaje Enriquez and one of the big bakeries to have one of their famous "Shecas". and don't forget the Cabro beer!

Excursions around Xela possible: hot springs, hikes, weaving by "trama textile", streetfood, spanish schools Xela is not so touristy ... food: Sabor de la India, street food near centro historico, xelapan ( for breakfast) El Balcón de Enríquez ( nice bar with small snacks) and nice overview Central America Park /Parque a Centro América

The central park is very beautiful, particularly the cathedral and municipal building. The municipal theatre is a short walk away but is unfortunately closed since the start of covid because they still don't have any events/performances! I highly recommend the restaurant Don Carlos; there are two locations in the city and one in Salcajá. I recommend visiting Laguna de Chicabal which is located in the crater of a nearby volcano. Drive to what is labeled in google maps as "Toritos para la laguna". There they will drive you in a safari style pick up truck to the top of the volcano, at which point you can walk down 570 steps. Don't let them charge you more than 100 Quetzales. There are Mam-spaeking Mayans doing religious rituals there. It is very spiritual down there. I did not have the chance to visit, but I also recommend Fuentes Georginas.

I have been to Xela (local name for the city) several times over 30 years, and generally have liked it very much. This is the largest Maya city in the world, and the culture is quite accessible here. Unfortunately, this is not a good time to be in Guatemala. The pandemic, joblessness, and crushing poverty are taking a toll on the city. Sad. Hopefully things will improve. But presently, I wouldn't recommend Xela for the average tourist.