Quetzaltenango
is a colonial town settled by the Conquistadores and surrounded
by mist-covered mountains. Xela is Guatemala’s second-largest
city and the center of the Quiché Maya people. Towering
over the city is the Santa Maria volcano and the active Santiaguito
volcano
Quetzaltenango is the commerial
center of Southwestern Guatemala. With quiet parks, plazas and
narrow stone-paved streets, Quetzaltenango is considered a progressive
city in Central America. It has four universities, various technical
schools, a sports complex, and a municipal arts theater. As
a result, students have the opportunity to observe, and more
importantly, interact with the local population and participate
in daily Guatemalan life. Visitors will find services and accommodations
while those that wish to get out to explore the mountains will
find numerous eco-tourism organizations offering hiking and
camping treks through the mountains, complete with all the necessary
gear and professional, experienced guides
