San Juan La Laguna (Guatemala)

The first thing that will strike you about San Juan la Laguna is its peaceful atmosphere. It's the quietest town by the lake, a place where you can sit back and calmly enjoy the wonderful views of Lake Atitlán. With a population of around 10,000, it's less frequented by tourists on a trip to Guatemala; most head to San Pedro, San Marcos, Santiago Atitlán and Panajachel. It's nice to get away from all the 'gringos' who flock to San Marcos, San Pedro and, especially, Panajachel (called 'Pah-nah' by the Americans).

There are few hotels, but some are luxurious. Although I didn't stay long, I loved the fact that its indigenous culture was alive and kicking, as seen its 'naive-style' arts and crafts.