Can You Survive on Less Than 1000 USD in Western Highlands?

The Western Highlands is a region in Guatemala that is known for its natural beauty, rich Mayan culture, and diverse landscapes. From the stunning Lake Atitlán to the world-renowned Mayan ruins of Tikal, the Western Highlands attracts thousands of tourists from around the world every year. However, despite its beauty and tourist appeal, many travelers wonder if it’s possible to live in this region on a budget. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Western Highlands and provide an answer to the question: Can you survive on less than 1000 USD in the Western Highlands?

The Cost of Living in Western Highlands

The standard of living varies greatly depending on where you live in the Western Highlands. For example, living in the popular tourist destination of Panajachel is going to be more expensive than living in a rural village. However, the cost of living is generally lower in the Western Highlands than it is in other parts of Guatemala such as Guatemala City or Antigua. To get a better understanding of the cost of living in the Western Highlands, we’ll break down some of the essential expenses.

Housing

Your biggest expense will be housing, and this is where you can save a substantial amount of money. For a small apartment in a rural village, you can expect to pay around $200 a month. This will likely be a simple living space with a kitchen and bathroom, but it will be enough to meet your basic living needs. If you’re looking for something a bit nicer or in a more popular destination, like Panajachel, housing prices can range from $300 to $500 a month for a small apartment.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are relatively inexpensive in the Western Highlands. If you stick to local markets and street stalls, you can expect to pay around $2-3 for a meal. A liter of water is about $0.30, and a domestic beer is about $2. For those who wish to cook their meals, groceries for a week for one person will cost about $20-30. However, if you prefer western-style restaurants and cafes, you can expect to spend more – around $5-10 for a meal.

Transportation

Transportation is also reasonably priced in the Western Highlands. A local bus ride typically costs around $0.25-0.50, and taxis charges about $2-3 for a ride within town.

Odds and Ends

Finally, other expenses such as electricity, internet, and phone depend on your usage patterns. For example, an average internet package for a month would be around $25. Electricity costs will vary depending on how big your plane is and how much you use. However, you can expect to pay around $20-30 a month.

Total Cost of Living

Based on the expenses outlined above, it’s feasible to live in the Western Highlands on less than 1000 USD a month comfortably. Of course, as we mentioned earlier, costs will vary based on where you choose to live, how often you eat out, and the type of accommodation you have.To further illustrate, a rough monthly budget summary is below:- Housing: $300- Food and drinks: $200- Transportation: $30- Electricity, internet, and phone: $50- Miscellaneous expenses: $100This comes out to a total of $680 per month, which leaves significant breathing room to increase your expenses if you choose.

The Bottom Line

Living in the Western Highlands is entirely possible on a small budget. You can live a comfortable lifestyle with $1000 USD a month, which is a fraction of what you would need in the United States, Europe, or other western countries. You’ll enjoy fantastic weather, incredible scenery, and a unique culture without breaking the bank. Suppose you’re thinking of living in the Western Highlands or visiting for an extended period. In that case, you’ll want to consider your lifestyle and choose your destination wisely to ensure your expenses suit your income. In conclusion, it’s possible to live on less than 1000 USD in the Western Highlands, but of course, your mileage may vary, and the cost of living depends on various factors. With the above information, you’re now better equipped to make an informed decision on whether it’s the right budget for you.

An Insider’s Guide to Surviving on Less than 1000 USD in Xela, Guatemala

Are you planning a trip to Guatemala and want to experience the Western Highlands, but on a tight budget? Xela, also known as Quetzaltenango, is a hidden gem that offers a wealth of attractions, unique cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. This guide will help you navigate your way through this vibrant and fascinating city – and even live on a budget!

Local Attractions

While many tourists flock to Lake Atitlan, Xela has its own set of hidden gems. Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Fuentes Georginas for a relaxing and rejuvenating break. Explore the beautiful architecture in the city center and take a stroll down to Parque la Democracia, where you can see the famous ‘Tree of Life’ statue, made entirely of recycled metal. For a unique experience, visit the cemetery during the Day of the Dead in November, where locals pay homage to their loved ones in an extravagant display of flowers, food, and drinks.

Dining Spots

Xela has a diverse and delicious food culture, where traditional Guatemalan dishes are combined with international influences. Try the family-run restaurant, Las Cebollitas, for authentic Guatemalan cuisine like pepián, a thick stew of chicken and vegetables, or chuchitos, a corn-based tamale. For a taste of something different, try the Korean barbecue spot, Kim K’ajon, where you can grill your own meat and enjoy it with kimchi and rice. Don’t forget to stop by Xelapan for freshly baked bread and pastries, which have been a staple in Xela since 1927.

Cultural Experiences

One of the most unique cultural experiences in Xela is the Fiestas de la Lomita, a celebration of the city’s patron saint, Virgen de Concepción. It takes place in the last week of November and includes a parade, traditional dances, and even fireworks. Another important tradition is the baile de la Conquista, a dance that celebrates the Spanish conquest of Guatemala but has been adapted to incorporate indigenous traditions and clothing. For art lovers, the Quetzaltenango Municipal Museum boasts a collection of colonial religious art and contemporary works by local artists.

Local History

Xela has a rich and complicated history, from being a center of indigenous resistance against Spanish colonialism to being a hub of trade and education. For a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, visit the Casa de la Cultura, which houses exhibits on the region’s history, including a replica of a Maya tomb and a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. For a more somber reminder of Guatemala’s history, visit the Maya-Mam Museum, which documents the genocide and repression that occurred during the civil war.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an adventurous and unique experience, take a day trip to the nearby town of Salcajá to hike the Los Altos trail. This route takes you through several small villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, you can take a tasting tour of the local coffee farms, where you can learn about the cultivation and roasting process and sample some of the best coffee in the world. Finally, for a spiritual and meditative experience, visit the Lagañón mountain and hike to the top, where you can see a stunning panoramic view of Xela and the nearby volcanoes.

With this insider’s guide, you can experience Xela like a local and make memories that will last a lifetime – all while sticking to a tight budget. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for an adventure that you’ll never forget.