Monterrico (Guatemala)

Monterrico is a destination that is highly-prized for having a wild time and relaxing in the sun by Guatemalans, especially those from the capital. When I went there, it was with friends or family; we collectively rented a private house with a pool: a luxury which, in the end, was hardly expensive, as the cost was shared among us. We were able to enjoy the beach in all tranquility... as it was privatised. A small luxury!

The surroundings count ecological places, in particular for the protection of turtles. Due to circumstances, I did not get a chance to go there, but they release baby turtles there, much like the experience I had back in Tilapita in 2012.

Its volcanic beaches, the ocean not as pacific as they make it out to be (beware of underwater currents: the sea can get really violent; a friend of mine recently almost died on a Pacific beach) and the splendid sunsets that it often offers, its mangroves and canals, which clearly represent the main point of interest of Monterrico, a break for those travelling in Guatemala ... a little off the beaten track of tourism.

For various reasons (mediocrity of the infrastructure and public transportation, reputation of violence and insecurity of the country which keeps most tourists in the framework of well-defined tours - always the same ones -, getting away from these same routes...), Monterrico, just like Playa el Tunco in Salvador, is not destined for destructive growth like Acapulco or Cancun in Mexico.