Even though it’s supposed to be a mecca of shoestring travel, I think that San Pedro on Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, is actually quite expensive. Because the thing is, San Pedro is a party destination. Backpackers go there to get drunk (or otherwise) and eat gringo food. The town itself is actually quite dirty and unpretty, although the views of the Lake are, of course, beautiful. There’s actually not much to do besides hop from bar to bar and restaurant to restaurant. Especially on a week like this: it’s been raining almost non-stop since we got to Guatemala.
So I don’t think I would call San Pedro one of my favourite places in Guatemala. I bet it would be a nice place to pause and work in a bar on a year-long trip, but it’s not exactly a highlight of Guatemala.
Anyways, my extravagant spending habits this week don’t bother me too much. I have the next year to be strict and thrifty, but right now I have a week to tour around and party with my girlfriends. I’ve worked hard for the last two years, so I guess I deserve a bit of fun.
So, since most of San Pedro’s highlights are bars and restaurants, here are my recommendations for the town:
Ventana Blue: A great little bar with only a few tables. They make the most delicious, most imaginative cocktails I’ve ever tried. The Mandarintini is a mix of orange, ginger, vodka and honey. I’m not sure what’s in the Ama de Casa, but it’s amazing and intense.
El Barrio: Run down pub – has a great atmosphere and maybe the cheapest drinks in town.
The Clover: Most delicious meals for less than 5 dollars, ever. I had the beef medallions – divine. My friend had the burrito, and it was enormous and incredible. Maybe the best restaurant in town?
D’Noz: This cafe maybe goes overboard with the hippie vibe, but it has lots going for it. Free wireless, a great bookshelf and even a place to stock up on new music on your computer.
Well, the waiters in this cafe in Chichicastenango are giving me dirty looks… will write more when I get onto the computer next.
Comments 3
Ooo cheap restaurants. I like.
I still think it’s unethical you’re not posting pictures. (or maybe you do and I just don’t know where to look)
Shame on you!
Posted 26 Jun 2009 at 5:24 am ¶hi,
Posted 06 Aug 2009 at 8:12 am ¶im paul from ireland,i own the clover in san pedro. thanx for your visit glad you enjoyed the food.and thank you for telling people.maybe i´ll see you there sometime
Thanks paul! funny that I just get your comment now… I actually just came from lunch at the clover right now.
Posted 10 Aug 2009 at 3:13 pm ¶Post a Comment