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The Complete Guatemala Travel Guide
Xela has its share of picturesque colonial buildings and wonderful restaurants and bars. A stroll around the main square puts you in the direct mix of old and new with modern people mingling amongst a backdrop of classic architecture.
The bars sprinkled around the main square feature live music, DJs and dancing nightly. Try a Cabro beer out of a liter bottle, Xela is the only place you can enjoy a litro of Cabro! If that doesn't keep you busy, be rest assured that you can shop till you drop on the streets, markets and malls of Xela.
In the surrounding areas are incredible hubs for weaving supplies, a hand blown glass cooperative and a vast array of handicrafts being created.
The hot springs known as Las Fuentes Georginas are about a half hour trip from Xela and are well worth a visit. Soak in the relaxing pools and enjoy their lush, mountain setting.
Xela
Quetzaltenango, or Xela (pronounced "shay-la"), is Guatemala's delightful 2nd city. Not as big or busy as Guate, Xela is more accessible and easier to navigate. Xela has a colonial charm, vast shopping opportunities and is set in the midst of gorgeous countryside.
Quetzaltenango (Xela)
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Recommended
‹Go for a ride in the countryside outside Xela and you will find some gems:
1. Visit San Andrès Xecul, about 20 minutes from Xela, and its spectacularly bright and detailed church.
2. The oldest church in Central America is a sweet little church in Salcajà , just East of Xela.
3. Visit the COPAVIC glass blowing cooperative in Cantel. If you arrive in the morning you can see them blowing the glass.
4. Indulge yourself at the Fuentes Georginas or the steam baths of Los Vahos, an hour walk from Xela's Parque Central.
5. Visit the extensive and not very touristy market at San Fransisco el Alto outside of Xela. Perfect if you are looking to buy a goat!
