Chichicastenango (Guatemala)

Advantages: Colourful, vibrant markets; a chance to immerse yourself in local culture
Disadvantages: May get hassled to see a pagan sacrifice of a chicken

Chichicastenango is about an hour from Panajachel, high up in the western Guatemalan mountains. It is a fairly small town, still stuck in its old ways, with a few hostels and cheap hotels for the budget traveller. Even if you are not an avid buyer of local goods, the expansive market scattered throughout the cobblestone streets is fantastic for people watching and taking in of the 'real' Guatemala. Souvenirs (especially masks, beads, and patchwork ...
...Antigua. There is also the oppurtunity to kit yourself out in bright indigenous clothing. However, as I learnt to my cost, if you see 1 item you particularly love in one town, buy it, as you might not necessarily see a similar one again! A definite must is a stop off at Iglesia de Santo Tomas (photos not allowed inside - also be aware that you should ask people if you want to take a photo of them). Candles and beautiful flowers are on sale outside, ... Read review