Travel Advice For Volunteers
Check visa requirements, the governments current travel advice and consult with a travel clinic about the vaccinations you will require. Taking out travel insurance for the duration of your stay is also recommended. Bring insect repellent containing DEET and medication against malaria if planning to travel to other parts of Guatemala. Pack warm clothes for chilly nights and waterproof clothing for the wet season. A flashlight is also very useful as power cuts are not uncommon.
Getting to Xela
Try to time your flight so as to arrive in Guatemala City at approximately midday and take a taxi to the Galgos bus station. The bus journey to Xela takes about four hours. Alternatively, if you are attending a Spanish school in Xela, several schools can arrange for you to be met at the airport and taken directly to Xela
Money
The exchange rate is approximately ten quetzals to the euro and, excluding costs of school fees, you can live in Xela comfortably for €300 a month. Cash machines are also plentiful.
Other Services
Internet cafes are also common and some offer international phone calls. EntreMundos also has information on doctors, dentists and many other services that can be found in Xela in our office El Espacio.
