Here are some essential items you'll want to take with you:
- Rain jacket. It often rains in the afternoons and you'll want a light but waterproof (NOT rain resistant) jacket. This is an absolute must. Make sure it’s water proof!
- Backpack. I basically take a large suitcase down there and a small backpack. You'll use your backpack everyday. So, just make sure you have one. It doesn't have to be anything fancy. I like the ones that integrate your water bottle and have all kinds of compartments for holding things (like cell phones, change, pens, etc.).
- Camera. Smiling kids in colorful clothes, tall volcanoes, Mayan ruins, etc. You're immersed in photogenic surroundings. Why not take some nice photos with a good camera? Your family and friends want to see your experience in vivid detail! However, your camera on your cell phone will do just fine, too.
- All-terrain shoes. Any type of tennis shoe will do, but if you want to be extra prepared, you may want to get a pair of waterproof, all-terrain shoes, like these. For my past two 6-week trips, I just took tennis shoes and sandals and was fine. However, one time I got stuck in the rain and my shoes were absolutely soaked. Since there’s so much humidity (w/o heat), it took at least 4 days before my shoes were completely dry. So, I just wore my sandals. Whatever you get, make sure they’re light and comfortable. Just know you don’t need heavy hiking boots.
- Books. If you bring a tablet or smartphone, you may not want to bring many books. Here are 4 books that I found to be helpful:
- Spanish-English dictionary - even if you have a dictionary on your smartphone or tablet, I still suggest getting a small pocket dictionary. A lot of these apps are dependent on an internet connection and you can't always count on having an internet connection (or your phone) while you're teaching. They come in small sizes (pocket dictionaries). That's the kind I bring.
- A “Spanish for Educators” book - how do you say "report card" in Spanish? This is a "must get" and there are many to chose from.
- a book of 501 Spanish verbs - These books are really helpful for learning important conjugations. However, there's now a free app for that. So, if you have a tablet or smartphone, you may wish to just download the app (you don't have to access the internet to get the conjugations)
- travelers guide to Guatemala - Although not necessary, these guides will give you an overview of Guatemala and the surrounding areas we may or may not be visiting. I prefer the Lonely Planet's guides. I have a few copies in my office, if you'd like to borrow one before the trip.
What's the weather like?
In May, the temperature fluctuates between 60 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect light afternoon showers. For more information on the weather in Antiguq, click here.