Why Atitlán?

A 2023 feature article by Money, Inc.com identifies Lake Atitlán as one of “The 20 Best Places to Live in Central America.” The most notable pluses are the climate and the low cost of living. While distance from family and work can challenge familiar lifestyles, the quality of internet today compensates considerably with easy long-distance visual as well as message contact. Many visitors as well as residents here work “remote”, with jobs in other countries.

But why specifically Atitlán? Geographically, Guatemala is only one country south of the United States beyond Mexico. It has a good international airport. Its capital, Guatemala City, is a modern urban city that offers all the advantages to be found anywhere – from malls to healthcare. While Mexico is one country closer to the U.S., Guatemala has avoided the staggering violence plaguing Mexico caused by narco traffic and the drug cartels.

Atitlán is a few hours from the nation’s capital. It has been judged by such notable visitors as Aldous Huxley as “the most beautiful lake in the world.” At a mile-high elevation, it enjoys a year-round “eternal spring” climate. It is the deepest lake in Central America and enjoys good fishing and a range of water sports. There are volcanoes to climb and plenty of less challenging hiking trails as well.

A sizable “ex-Pat” population of North Americans and Europeans have settled here. The reasons are budgetary as well as aesthetic. As it is a farmer area, fresh food is quite inexpensive. Local markets offer a large variety of fruits and vegetables. Being only a few hours from the Pacific coast, fresh seafood arrives here daily. Homes require neither air conditioning nor heating. Housekeeper and gardener wages are much more affordable at Atitlán than in the “First World.”

Our property is in Panajachel, the gateway community to Atitlán. As a major tourist destination, the town is replete with banks, restaurants, super markets, entertainment and other creature comforts. The community is also blessed with a broad variety of healthcare services ranging from medical and dental clinics and laboratories to a nearby hospital.