As my 30th birthday approached, my best friends and I, united by our shared birth month, decided to celebrate with our first international girls’ trip. The destination? The enchanting city of Antigua, Guatemala. Known for its Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and an array of hues from pastel-painted houses, Antigua promised to be the perfect backdrop for our milestone celebration.
Exploring Antigua’s Rich Tapestry of Textiles and Artistry
Antigua is a haven for textile enthusiasts. The region’s weaving patterns and color palettes are unique to each area. We were captivated by Colibrí textiles, where ancient backstrap weaving supports Indigenous widowed women. The Nimpot market, with its endless handicrafts, and Algodones Maya, showcasing artisanal cotton products, were not to be missed. Our shopping spree continued at Luna Zorro, Hilosophy, and Ixcaco for their stunning offerings.
A visit to Pastores, just outside Antigua, revealed a world-renowned hub for handmade cowboy boots. Each family-run shop, like Botas Atitlán, offered custom boot-making, alongside a selection of belts, bags, and hats.
Our journey extended to Lake Atitlán, just a three-hour drive away. The lake’s sacred healing powers are revered by the Mayans, and the towns along its banks, like San Juan la Laguna, are rich with cultural treasures, including a women’s weaving cooperative and family-run apiary Xunah Kaab’.
Indulging in Antigua’s Culinary Delights
Our gastronomic adventure began at Nana, a unique restaurant-boutique blending the joy of second-hand shopping with delectable dining. Quiltro, Antigua’s first fine dining establishment, delighted us with its ever-changing menu of Guatemalan flavors. For a taste of the famous local helado, we headed to La Tienda de Doña Gavi, a favorite among locals.
Sipping the Night Away
Our evenings were spent exploring Antigua’s vibrant bar scene. Ulew Cocktail Bar, hidden behind a phone booth at Antigua Brewing Company, crafted custom cocktails based on our preferences. Casa Palopó offered a serene setting for non-alcoholic beverages, featuring local teas and desserts against the backdrop of the lake and volcano. For a more casual vibe, El Comalote served up unique drinks alongside their freshly made tortillas.
Where to Stay in Antigua: A Tale of Elegance and Charm
Villa Bokéh: This former estate turned luxury boutique hotel felt like stepping into a fairy tale. From the nightly delivery of chocolates and essential oils to the stunning views of Volcán de Agua, every detail was meticulously crafted. The hotel’s ambiance, enhanced by Claudia Bosch’s attention to detail and Katy Jay’s collaboration with local artisans, made our stay unforgettable.
Casa Palopó: Perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Atitlán, Casa Palopó was more than just a hotel—it was a breathtaking experience. The hotel’s infinity pool, dining room serving local cuisine, and beautifully adorned rooms with indigenous Guatemalan artwork offered a luxurious escape. The private villa and its panoramic terrace were the perfect spots to plan our lake adventures.
El Convento: Nestled in the heart of Antigua, El Convento’s unique rooms, each with their distinct charm and luxurious design, provided a serene retreat. The rooftop offered stunning views of the volcanos, ideal for enjoying a relaxing evening.
As we left Antigua, we realized this trip was more than just a celebration of turning 30. It was an immersion into a world where history, culture, and style converge, creating memories that will forever be cherished. Antigua, with its blend of ancient charm and modern elegance, is a destination that any fashion-forward traveler should not miss.
