There are a couple good reasons to tarry in Guate, mostly being the better museums. After a lesson in Guatemala time where I rose early to match Hans's work schedule, then waited an hour and a half for him to get out of bed, his Mom having to badger him several times, I scored a ride to the middle of town to the tourism agency, more Hans's pick for a dropoff than mine but convenient to his ride out of town for work.
For all the conscientious guidebook reading, it's astounding how quickly one will defy the guidance. According to Hans, 700 bus drivers were killed last year, in part for the money they collect from passengers. There are several bus options but the only ones the tourism board seem to know are the red murder buses (so far, I'm the only one calling them that). And they're packed, so the good people of the city must know something. So, I rode them all day and didn't get killed or see anyone else get killed, not even once. And mostly they got me where I was going, though it can be hard to figure out where to get off when you're standing and can only see the road and cars.
I managed to make it to the archaeological museum, jammed with some amazing pieces from the various Mayan sites. I followed up with an even better museum, but they wouldn't permit me to take photos. See some samples from first museo above and below.
Demon mask - definitely looking for one of these to add to the collection.
Finally got to see the other guy.
One of the famous and few Mayan codexes - mostly have it figured out, largely about war and fancy dancing.
This guy means business, which was usually war.
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