Xela, Guatemala
December 30-January 2, 2012
The complicated city name of Quetzaltenango is also commonly known by locals simply as "Xela". Our original thought was to visit some famous hot springs in the area but our plan was diverted. Instead, we spent New Years Eve here which was an unforgettable experience of fireworks across the city. The historic area is very charming with beautiful old buildings and a bustling central park with a daily market. It was really cold in Xela because of its high elevation of 2700 meters which is a nice change of climate.
Our Accommodations - Casa Dona Mercedes
We found a nice little hotel called Casa Dona Mercedes located in a remodeled historic home close to the central park. At midnight on New Years Eve, we ran up to our roof top patio to witness fireworks going off all over the entire city at the same time. It was really amazing to be standing there and experiencing such a unique demonstration to bring in the new year!
Photo's of Xela
Happy New Year!