Was this really just one day?

This day was incredible! We woke up at Posada de Santiago, has breakfast, then took the boat back across Lake Atitlan to Panajachel on the other side. Then we drove back to Antigua, stopping first to tour a working coffee plantation. This was such a beautiful place, and fascinating- I had no idea how coffee was cultivated. We also stocked up on coffee beans to take to people back home- many of whom reported it was the best they have had! Back in Antigua, we ate lunch (chile rellenos!) then caught a chicken bus (!) to a neighboring village that was the site of Day 1 of a two-day festival. The chicken bus ride was a highlight of the trip- but I dont think I would want to ride one on the windy country roads we had taken earlier. Bumping along the cobblestones was enough for me! The village, Ciudad Vieja, was hosting the annual festival honoring the Virgin de Concepcion, and featured vendors and one of the coolest and most creative parades I have ever seen. There were also street dancers and lots of music.

After the parade, we took a Tuk-tuk back to Antigua in time to witness yet another local custom that takes place in December:the burning of a devil on a street in Antigua! This apparently helps rid the people and home of Antigua of evil- and also makes quite a show!