Guatemala /Feb 19, 2020
Defining Maximon is no easy feat although the most suitable description of him is probably as a folk saint.
However, this is no saint in the typical, western understanding of the term. For Maximon is a saint who is more than partial to a smoke and a drink and who knows what else.
In Guatemala more than perhaps any other country in Central America, Catholic beliefs and local, indigenous traditions have become intertwined into a form of folk Catholicism, hence the folk saint.
Sometimes also referred to as San Simon, Maximon is typically represented in the form of a dressed-up, wooden effigy, sat on a chair, usually in a small, smoke-filled room.
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Beyond The Ordinary arrange fully bonded, tailor made holidays and tours to Guatemala. Contact one of our experts on 01580 764796, email travel@beyondtheordinary.co.uk or contact us via our website. |
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Believers travel from far and wide across the country, but especially in the Highlands of Guatemala, to ask for all manner of things: better health, improved finances, protection, marriage, you name it. There are no rules on who can and can’t ask for his help so whether you’re a priest or a politician, you’re in…….just not without an offering of money, alcohol, cigars or even tortillas.
Even if you are a non-believer, and simply curious, you can still visit Maximon although you will probably be charged a fee of some sort, especially if you wish to take photos, rather than being allowed to make an offering. There are no set fees or rules but you can expect to pay anything up to 100 Quetzales (around US$13).
Based in the town of Santiago de Atitlan, alongside Lake Atitlan, he has a tendency to move around somewhat so the services of a guide are recommended.
As the vast majority of our clients will include time at Lake Atitlan as part of their Guatemala holiday, and with a boat trip very much at the top of the ‘to do’ list, getting to see him is relatively simple.
This brief itinerary around the highlands of Guatemala takes in the key destinations of Antigua, Chichicastenango & Lake Atitlan together with some lesser known ones such as the Mayan ruins of Iximche and the city of Quetzaltenango.
This classic Guatemala itinerary starts in the Highland region, taking in Antigua, Chichicastenango & Lake Atitlan amongst others before heading north via Quirigua, Livingston & Rio Dulce to the vast flatlands of Peten, home to the great Mayan cities of Tikal & Yaxha.
No single itinerary can ever succeed in being entirely comprehensive but the 3-week, Complete Guatemala comes pretty darn close and even provides the option of quick detour into Honduras.
Although one might not necessarily associate Guatemala with boat trips, for those amongst us who like messing about on the water, there are plenty of fun options.
Panajachel is the largest and most developed town on Lake Atitlan and something of a tourist hub.
Taking place every Tuesday & Friday morning, Solola Market is often referred to as being one of the most ‘authentic’ markets in Guatemala.
When making your travel arrangements, we understand just how important peace-of-mind is. Beyond The Ordinary hold both ATOL & ABTOT bonds so whether you book your flights through us, or independently, any money you pay us is 100% protected. More detailed information on Financial Protection can be found by clicking here.
Whichever of our featured countries you wish to visit, we've been there several times. So, if you're after something beyond the ordinary to Cuba, Nicaragua, Guatemala or the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, we'd love to hear from you.
