Guatemala City

If you're going to be in Guatemala City, you'll find yourself in the transportation hub of Guatemala. In this bustling city are many attractions, including those of historical and cultural interest. Learn about the heritage and history of the country at Avenida La Reforma or check out the Centro Civico, an art museum.

At the Torreon de las Baterias, you'll get to see the remains of the San Jose fort. For even more ancient culture, check out the Mayan ruins at Mixco Viejo. If you're looking for entertainment that's a bit more modern, Guatemala City does not disappoint.

One great place for vacationing families is the Zoologico La Aurora. This zoo is home to animals from Guatemala as well as other areas of the globe. Recently refurbished, this zoo keeps the animals in enclosures that are similar to their natural habitats.

One thing you'll notice about the city is that it's divided into Zones, with the zoo being in Zone 13. Many of the zones in the city are residential and don't have anything to offer tourists. However, two of them that are worth visiting are Zones 9 and 10.

These two zones are collectively known as La Zona Vida, or the lively zone. This area contains lots of hotels, stores, nightclubs and restaurants for tourists to enjoy. No matter what kind of food you like, you'll find it offered at a restaurant in La Zona Vida.

At Guatemalan restaurants, you can sample local delicacies and favorites. There are also Mexican restaurants, Italian restaurants, and even American chain restaurants. One of the best things about this city is the amount of variety. Whether you're on a small budget or a large one, you can find the perfect meal and perfect accommodations for your needs.

Other zones have something to offer travelers as well. In Zone 13, you'll discover Aurora Park. This large park is home to several museums, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Archaeology. The very first zone, Zone 1, is the historic and cultural center of the city as well as the oldest part of the city.

Although it sounds confusing, you'll soon learn how to navigate the city and get where you need to go via taxi or public transportation. One of the best things about Guatemala City is its incredible diversity. History and culture combined with modern innovation puts this city in a class all it's own!