Located in Central America, Guatemala shares borders with Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. Guatemala has a thousand-year-old history characterized by great social diversity. Archeological monuments date back to pre-Colombian times and remind visitors of the country’s rich Mayan history. The Mayan population includes 22 different ethnicities, each with its own language and unique dress. Although present-day Guatemala is known primarily for its Mayan roots and vibrant culture, the country has many layers.
QUETZALTENANGO
Quetzaltenango, Guatemala’s second-largest city, is known for its stunning vistas, astonishing range of landscapes, and city life. The sights and sounds of this densely-populated city contrast against the calming beauty of nearby mountains and volcanoes. The city’s nickname, Xela, originates from its indigenous name – Xe laju' noj, which means “under 10 mountains.” Although it is not often considered a common tourist destination, Xela has been gaining popularity as both a place to study abroad and practice the Spanish or Mayan language, and a hotspot for ecotourism.
THE CROSS-CULTURAL SOLUTIONS EXPERIENCE IN QUETZALTENANGO
The CCS Teen Volunteer Abroad program is specifically designed to provide a safe and secure international volunteering experience for teens aged 15-17 years old. Learn more about the program components in Quetzaltenango:
Volunteer Work: Volunteer placements in Quetzaltenango are with locally-run organizations and projects. The volunteer work on Teen Volunteer Abroad programs is always a group-based project, designed to be completed within the program dates. These projects may include painting murals in a primary school, planting a garden in an elderly center, or participating in recreational activities with the community.
Cultural & Learning Activities: These activities may include weekly language lessons in Spanish, insightful discussions with guest speakers about the region, history, and struggles of the Guatemalan people, and other cultural activities. Excursions are also offered and may include a guided walk through the historical part of the city, a visit to the hot springs, tours of the nearby Mayan ruins, and visits with local textile merchants.
Free Time: There will be time in the afternoons and evenings to rest and relax in the CCS Home-Base with fellow teen volunteers. CCS also arranges optional, staff-accompanied activities to explore the community and culture. The groups are supported and supervised by CCS in-country staff at all times. The most common free time activities include: trips to local markets, walks around the local community, and trips to the internet café.
Home-Base in Quetzaltenango: The Home-Base is located in a comfortable, residential neighborhood within walking distance of the downtown. During the Teen Volunteer Abroad program, only participating teens will occupy the Home-Base. Typically, three to six volunteers will share a room, with rooms always separated by gender. Basic amenities, including electricity and flush toilets are provided. Meals at the CCS Home-Base are prepared by local cooks and will reflect the local cuisine.
Transportation to and from your volunteer placement and any Cultural & Learning Activity is provided by CCS’ licensed drivers. Local CCS staff helps facilitate your volunteer experience and are always available to handle any questions that may arise. Learn more about the in-country staff in Quetzaltenango.
