My Time in
XELA



Also known as
Quetzaltenango


Quetzaltenango is situated in the Highlands of Guatemala, nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanos and mountains. With a population of 100,000, it is the second biggest city in Guatemala and an important commercial center. Because of its height, it is one of the few places in Central America that can harvest such cold-weather vegetables such as broccoli.

The name Quetzaltenango comes from two indian words: tenango, which means city of or place of; and quetzal, which is the bird that appears on the left. The quetzal is the national bird and the Guatemalan coin. The quetzal was very important to the natives. They believed this bird carried their prayers to the gods. Quetzal, together with the coatl, which means serpent, is also the name of the white god from the east born of a virgin that performed miracles and prophesied to return one day.


I was in Guatemala as a teacher for Fundet. Fundet is a private foundation set up to help Central Americans receive computer training in order to receive better jobs and support their families. It was an awesome experience and I really felt like I made a difference in the world.


While I wsa there I had the opportunity to visit some Mayan ruins. Here are some pictures of my trip



Gallery


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