10 Day Kaleidoscope of Guatemala & Honduras
From
$1699
Land Only
$3059*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
| 10 Day Kaleidoscope of Guatemala & Honduras | ||
|---|---|---|
| Barcelo Guatemala City | Guatemala City | |
| Hotel Marina Copan | Copan | |
| Hotel Villa Maya | Flores, Peten | |
| Hotel Atitlan | Lake Atitlan, Panajachel | |
| Porta Del Lago | Lake Atitlan, Panajachel | |
| Camino Real Antigua | Antigua Guatemala | |
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flight Flores-Guatemala City.
Passport information for all passengers traveling to Tikal must be submitted 30 days prior to departure.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights Miami-Guatemala City, Guatemala City-Miami
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- Intra-flight Flores-Guatemala City
- 9 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Guatemala City
- 1 night Copán
- 2 nights Flores
- 2 nights Panajachel
- 2 nights Antigua
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 15 meals: 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- In Guatemala City, discover the unique blend of old and new in Central America's largest metropolis
- Tour the archaeological site of Copán, Honduras, one of the most impressive cities of the ancient Maya Civilization
- Explore Tikal, one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy a visit to the Church of Santo Tomas and Chichicastenango Market
- Visit Lake Atitlan, a beautiful volcanic lake, ringed by small towns
- Boat excursion to San Juan La Laguna, famous for its colorful murals
- Tour of Antigua, a beautiful blend of ruins and restored colonial buildings
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This active program covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The drive from Copan to Flores can take up to 12 hours due to delays at the border. Some hotels in Panajachel are built in the traditional local style and have no air-conditioning. During heat waves, these hotels can become uncomfortable. There is an early wake-up for the flight to Guatemala City. The pace is fast, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, stairs, steps and significant slope. Due to the varied elevations, travel in Guatemala may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. This is a Classic program. For more information, click here.
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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This first class hotel is one block from Reforma Avenida and two blocks from Zona Viva with its restaurants, disco bars and shopping.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in a private nature reserve on the shores of the Petenchel and Monifata Lagoons.
Hotel Details
This superior tourist class hotel is located in Panajachel on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlán.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Transfer by boat to the village of Santa Catarina Palopó, one of twelve villages located around Lake Atitlan. The village is home to roughly 6,000 people, most of whom identify as Kaqchikel, one of the indigenous Maya peoples of the midwestern highlands in Guatemala. Though Spanish is widely understood, the most common language spoken in the village is Kaqchikel. After lunch, take a guided tour around the small town to learn more about the traditions of the local people. Taste tortillas and black beans, a typical meal in the village. Then, watch a loom weaving demonstration to see how they create the cloth used to make their colorful garments and dressings.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours
| Day #6 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2023 | $40.00 |
This evening, savor an experience that best combines the history, culture, and local food of Guatemala. A local family will lead a cooking class and teach you everything you need to know about the culinary heritage and modern traditions of Guatemala. Later, sit down and enjoy the dinner that you helped prepare.
Approximate tour duration is 3.5 hours
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2023 - 23 Dec 2023 | $70.00 |
| 26 Dec 2023 - 31 Dec 2023 | $70.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Guatemala - Passport information must be submitted to Gate 1 Travel at least 30 days prior to departure for all passengers traveling to Tikal. This information is necessary to issue air tickets. |
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/res with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Guatemala - You may encounter mosquitoes in both urban and rural areas, especially during wet seasons. Travelers are encouraged to bring insect repellent and consider wearing clothing that adequately covers arms and legs. Please note that Malaria can be found in rural areas of Guatemala with an elevation below 5,000 ft. Please consult a physician well in advance of your trip to determine if anti-Malaria medication is necessary. In the event of illness in Guatemala, state funded hospitals are best avoided, so travelers should look for a private-clinic if possible. Treatment can be refused at any health facility without insurance, so good travel insurance is important. |
| Honduras - While no inoculations are required, taking a Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, especially if traveling in the northern area of Honduras. Dengue fever is also endemic to the country, so it is advised to take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. During the dry season, severe air pollution, resulting from widespread forest fires and agricultural burning may cause respiratory problems for some. Please consult your physician before traveling to Honduras. |
| About the Zika Virus - The Zika Virus is a mosquito-borne virus mostly found in areas of Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. According to the CDC, most cases of Zika are mild. However, there is a potential link between this virus and a brain defect called microcephaly which affects unborn babies and may pose a potential risk to pregnant women. If you are pregnant or believe you could be at the time of travel, the CDC cautions against traveling to these destinations. For information, please visit www.cdc.gov/zika/. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Guatemala - Guatemala's climate has two distinct seasons, rainy (winter) season and dry (summer) season. However, the climate varies more according to altitude rather than rather than by season. During the rainy season (May - Oct) you will usually see a few hours of rain each day between periods of sunshine. During the dry season, typically there are a few days of rain each month. Towards the end of the season weeks can pass without rain. It is important to remember that during both seasons, the tropical climate sees significantly more days and greater amounts of rain. The tropical climate region (Tikal, Flores, Quirigua, Pureto Barrios, Livingston, Yaxha, Ceibal), ranges from sea level to 3,330 ft. This region is hot and humid, day and night, throughout the year. Average day temperatures are in the high 80s, but can climb as high as 100ºF. Average evening temperatures are in the high 70s. The temperate region (Guatemala City, Antiqua, Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango, Panajachel), ranges from 3,300 ft to 6,600 ft. This region experiences medium humidity level, but average daily temperatures are in the hight 70s. Evenings in this region can get much cooler, dropping into the high 50s during winter months. Bring comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some activities involve hiking through jungle terrain. It is advisable to pack clothing appropriate for these excursions, and possible a change of clothes for later in the day. Evenings in the highlands can be quite cool, so it would be advisable to bring a good jacket and warm clothes for sleeping. Hotels in Guatemala may not have modern heating systems. Sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses are also recommended. Note that all military clothing is illegal. Guatemala Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/americas/default.aspx#guatemala-panama-weather |
| Honduras - In the highlands - Spring: 65-85°F; Summer: 65-85°F; Autumn: 60-80°F; Winter: 60-80°F. Along the coast - Spring: 70-90°F; Summer: 70-90°F; Autumn: 65-85°F; Winter: 65-85°F. Honduras has two seasons: dry season is from February to May; wet season lasts from June to January. Honduras Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/americas/default.aspx#honduras-weather |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| GUATEMALA: Books Mr. President by Miguel Ángel Asturias Bitter Fruit by Stephen Schlesinger & Stephen Kinzer Homies and Hermanos by Robert Brenneman I, Rigoberta Menchú by Rigoberta Menchú Men of Maize by Miguel Ángel Asturias City of God by Kevin Lewis O’Neill Silence on the Mountain by Daniel Wilkinson Love in a Fearful Land by Henri Nouwen GUATEMALA: Films 500 Years (2017) Lost Treasures of the Maya Snake Kings (2018) Mystery of the Maya (1995) When Mountains Tremble (1983) Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World (2019) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Guatemala - Intra-Guatemala flights have a baggage weight restriction 35 lbs. per person with a limit of one piece of checked luggage and one carry on. This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when getting ready for your trip. For your convenience, it is recommended that you prepare a smaller bag with essential items to meet this weight limit and leave extra luggage behind at the hotel in Guatemala City. A lock is recommended for all luggage while traveling within Guatemala. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Escorted Tour Participants in Guatemala |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers departing at different points in the itinerary. All participants will begin their trip in Guatemala City Before your sightseeing begins, you will be invited to join a brief welcome orientation with your Tour Manager and will have an opportunity to meet your tour companions. Please note that this tour welcomes passengers from Gate 1 Travel as well as other tour companies. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Guatemala - You can expect marginally lower standards at the hotel properties with fewer amenities. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Guatemala - It is customary to tip 10% in restaurants when service has not been included on the bill. Taxis drivers are not usually tipped, but hotel staff and tour guides do expect to be tipped for their services. |
| Honduras - It is customary to tip 10% in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Guatemala - The Guatemalan Quetzal is the currency of Guatemala. It is recommended to use only new US dollars when exchanging money at banks in Guatemala. Travelers checks are not widely accepted. Important: Due to reports of illegal scanning of ATM cards it is recommended to avoid using ATM machines whenever possible. |
| Honduras - The Honduran Lempira is the currency of Honduras. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Guatemala - Guatemala is known for its textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, and baskets. A great place to purchase these items is at a market, which are abundant; Guatemala City and Chichicastenango both have famous markets. Please note that bargaining is expected by vendors and is the best way to get good deals. Guatemala City also offers many modern shopping centers, which are typically open seven days a week. |
| Honduras - In Honduras, it is easy to find fine leather goods, ceramics and silver jewelry. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
|
Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Guatemala - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Guatemala, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. It is advised that travelers avoid contact with children, including taking photographs, especially in rural areas. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. Do not take public transportation on buses as these vehicles are targets for robbery. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi. All authorized taxis are clearly identified with registration number on the doors. Due to reports of illegal scanning of ATM cards it is recommended to avoid using ATM machines whenever possible. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Travel outside of major cities is not recommended, especially by bus. |
| Honduras - While we recommend that you apply reasonable caution and common sense when traveling in any country, please be aware that in Honduras, there are significant issues with theft against tourists in public places. Always keep valuables in a safe place and avoid walking alone. Passengers should not travel alone after dark. While driving, it is suggested to keep the car doors locked and windows up. We recommend that taxis be reserved via the hotel concierge desk, and that you do not ride alone when possible. When not possible, we recommend that a hotel, restaurant, or shop call a taxi; instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers. When using ATM machines, be on the lookout for anyone watching or following you. In the unlikely event that you should fall victim to a robbery, do not resist, the majority of injuries from robberies occur as a result of resistance. Do not hitchhike and do not accept rides from strangers. As in most parts of the world, be aware of your surroundings and keep to well-lit and populated areas. Travel outside of major cities is not recommended, especially by bus. Political demonstrations are quite common on the streets of the capital, Tegucigalpa, and also in other cities. Even though they are usually peaceful, it is advisable that they be avoided. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Guatemala
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Honduras
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| Languages |
| Guatemala - Spanish is the official language. Many indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country. English is widely spoken. |
| Honduras - Spanish is the official language. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Guatemala - The voltage used is 120 volts. |
| Honduras - The voltage used is 110 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Guatemala - Waving goodbye in Guatemala is unique. The wave looks similar to someone fanning themselves. Always ask permission before taking someone's photo. Public displays of affection should be avoided, especially when traveling outside of Guatemala City. |
| Honduras - Visitors should observe normal courtesies. The atmosphere is generally informal and casual dress is appropriate. Avoid throwing or tossing things to others as this is seen as an insulting gesture. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| Guatemala - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. It is advised to stick to food from reputable vendors. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Honduras - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Tap water is not potable in Honduras, it is recommended that visitors drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Guatemala |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 6: Maundy Thursday Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 8: Holy Saturday Apr 9: Easter Sunday May 1: Labor Day Jul 3: Army Day Aug 15: Assumption Day Sep 15: Independence Day Oct 20: Revolution of 1944 Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 28: Maundy Thursday Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 30: Holy Saturday Mar 31: Easter Sunday May 1: Labor Day Jul 1: Army Day Holiday Sep 15: Independence Day Oct 20: Revolution of 1944 Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Honduras |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 6: Maundy Thursday Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 14: Day of the Americas May 1: Labor Day Sep 15: Independence Day Oct 3: Francisco Morazán Day Oct 12: Columbus Day Oct 21: Armed Forces' Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 28: Maundy Thursday Mat 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 14: Day of the Americas May 1: Labor Day Sep 15: Independence Day Oct 3: Francisco Morazán Day Oct 12: Columbus Day Oct 21: Armed Forces' Day Dec 25: Christmas Day |
Our 12 day Culture and Adventure in Guatemala and Belize was fabulous thanks to our outstanding tour director, Aquilino. His knowledge of the history, culture, traditions of the Mayans, as well as present day Guatemalans was incredible. We especially appreciated Aquilina sharing personal stories. Aquilino is a true gem of a tour director and a real asset to Gate 1.
Carole J.
Aquilino, the tour director for our 12 day trip to Guatemala and Belize, was beyond excellent and absolutely made the trip for us. He is knowledgeable, personable, thoughtful, enthusiastic, and professional. He brought life to the Mayan sites we visited and connected us through ideas and emotions to the places and people we encountered. He enhanced every experience small and large throughout the trip.
Wendy A.
This trip was awesome. The selections of hotels were perfect, and the food was great. But above all, the tour guide was very acknowledged of his country history. Manny explained everything so clear with an honest opinion about the Mayans, the people, the politics, etc. Also the driver Edgar, was incredible. He was able to drive the coach in such a narrow streets. In general, Gate1 continues to impress me with its services, before and during the my trips. I am now looking for my next trip with you guys. Thank you very much for making my traveling experiences so much fun.
Alba G.
This trip was extraordinary. The hotel accommodations, optional tours and itinerary were perfect. Our tour director, Alejandro, was exceptional. He was responsible, organized, attentive, kind, knowledgeable and always available to meet our needs. Please make sure he stays with Gate 1!
Angela J.
The trip was great. Thoroughly enjoyed the guide, bus driver sites and hotels. One of the best Gate 1 tours yet!
Cathy B.
Guatalela is a beautiful country! The scenery, the food, the people and the Mayan ruins were wonderful. The Gate 1 itinerary covered lots of different areas and made sure we saw all the major attractions. Our guide Estuardo was another wonderful guide. Friendly and knowledgeable. Our driver Manuel handled the bus well no matter the road type. I would (and already have) recommend this trip to anyone. I traveled alone but easily found travel buddies with in the group of 27. The two highlights were seeing Tikal while being able to clime to the top of the pyramid and the hotel on Lake Atitlan. Our view of the lake and volcanos was like a postcard. Thanks again for another great trip.
Amanda J.
I want to say what a wonderful guide we had. His name is Garry. This person has phenomenal knowledge about the history of Guatemala, about its culture, about the peoples inhabiting it. Excellent English, intelligent person. My wife and I are delighted to communicate with this man. Thanks to the erudition and kindness of Garry, our visit to Guatemala has become unforgettable.
Mikhail G.
I just wanted to add, Gate 1 you knocked it out of the park regarding the Guatemala trip!! Everything was top notch!! I want to return in the near future. Thank you for your great service!!
Mary K.
Excellent trip. Guide Estuardo & driver Manuel were wonderful. Hotels and meals were great. A wonderful trip. 10 out of 10 in my opinion.
Mauricio L.
This trip was an amazing experience for us. It has been a while since our last trip due to the Pandemic, but this Kaleidoscope trip to Guatemala and Honduras Mayan sites were both spectacular and the small towns we visited were the icing on the cake. Our guide and driver, Estuardo and Manuel, were a superb team who made the trip wonderful and fun as well as safe and together we built memories that will last a lifetime. We would like to recognize both for their commitment to everyone in the trip and their attention to the smallest of details that made the traveling and hotel transitions go very smooth. I would highly recommend this tour to Gate 1 to everyone who wants to relax, learn about new cultures, and enjoy a wonderful gastronomy and the colorful people of Guatemala.
Edna M.
Absolutely great! In particular, our trip director, Esturdo, was an outstanding representative for Guatemala & Gate 1. He knew "his stuff" which made for an interesting and enjoyable time in Guatemala. His work for Gate 1 deserves special recognition.
Dennis W. Clemson, SC
The trip was great! Loved the lush greenery, flowers and other vegetation in Guatemala and Honduras! Birds and monkeys too! All the hotels were top notch and the food delicious. Our guide, Estuarto, was wonderful and very knowledgeable about all the culture, customs and sites in Guatemala and Honduras. He took good care of the group and made sure we were safe and had what we needed. The bus was great too as was the driver Saulo. Loved the markets, museums and Lake Atitlan, the ruins at Copan and Tikal were marvelous too. All in all, I feel like I got to know lots about Guatemala and Honduras and I would recommend the trip to others interested in Central America.
Celia S. Louisville, KY
My trip was incredible thanks mainly to Marco for his excellence as a tour guide. You all are lucky to have him. He is one of the best guides I ever have had.
Dorian G. Miramar, FL
The trip was great with only 16 people in the group. The tour director Tony was very knowledgeable and gave us a lot of information on Mayan civilization. Also the tour guide in Copan, Honduras was very good. We were lucky with weather and accommodation was good. Overall we like the tour and would recommend our friends and relatives to take this trip with Gate 1.
Lev A. Santa Monica, CA
This trip was fabulous. I'm really thankful for Gate 1 for providing such an interesting journey.
Valeri V. Richmond Hill, Canada
The trip was GREAT. The tour guide "Tony" was very knowledgeable and really cared about us. We had a good group of people. The hotels, food, sightseeing was all wonderful.
Lee O. Fort Dodge, IA
Our guide Tony was wonderful and knowledgeable. Tony explained the history of each and every place we visited and was able to answer everyone's questions and concerns. I thought the hotels chosen were the best and the restaurants were excellent. Restaurant service was excellent and the food was delicious. Guatemala-Honduras were never on my bucket list. I am very happy I chose to visit there. I made a great choice. Thank you Gate 1 for another great tour!
Susan T. San Francisco, CA
Very nice! We had a good time and learned a lot about Mayan civilization. Our tour guide Sergio was very knowledgeable and friendly. The size of 16 people was ideal for visiting Guatemala.
Stanley K. Landenberg, PA
The trip was great! The combination of a plush hotel and a historic one was was special. I learned so much on the excursions. The guide, Sergio Garcia was really special. He greeted us with a welcoming smile that one would expect from a close friend or special family member, and he was especially helpful with our problems.
Frances C. Thousand Oaks, CA
The trip was fantastic! Sergio was awesome, the sites were everything I've read about in books, and the logistics were spot on as usual. My sister and I enjoyed everything we saw especially Tikal and Lake Atitlan. The Guatemalan people were warm and we truly felt their love for the Mayan heritage and history. Another great trip! Why we always go with Gate 1.
Terry C. Waldorf, MD
We had a great time in Guatemala! It’s a beautiful country. We felt very safe. Our guide, Marco Antonio Garrido, is one of the best, very knowledgeable and with a very good sense of humor. We learned a lot about the history of the country in such a short trip. Thank you Gate 1 for this awesome experience!
Rosemarie E. Bronx, NY
I had a wonderful time during my trip. It was sunny most of the time, Accommodations were very good and our tour manager Estuardo was excellent. We had equal time of touring and time to explore on our own or just to rest.
Arthur N. Fontana, CA
It was a great trip. The guide, Tony, was wonderful. Drivers were safe and professional. Tony was very helpful, knowledgeable and very precise in all his instructions. I had been to Guatemala before with a group...but I learned so much more about the country on this trip.
Eileen T. Brooklyn, NY
We had an amazing time. Guatemala is a beautiful country with so much rich history. Our tour guide Estuardo was amazingly knowledgeable. Thank you Gate 1 for another successful fabulous vacation!
Mirna B. Burtonsville, MD
It was fabulous. Everything clicked. First time on an organized tour. Enjoyed myself immensely.
Liza G. Milton, VT
We loved it- had a wonderful time! Stuart was very knowledgeable and caring! Great guide!
David S. Dublin, CA
The trip was very nice. I really enjoyed it. The tour director was good, and the hotels were good too.
Hector F. Silver Spring, MD
It was fabulous. Tour director (Gigi) was great. Hotel was nice. Weather was perfect. Gate 1 does a great job of putting together a tour. We saw all we needed to see in the three days.
Susan C. Falls Church, VA
Douglas, the American guide, and Gretel, the Cuban guide, were wonderful. They were very knowledgeable, accommodating, and great leaders. I enjoyed the activities, meals, accommodations, fellow travelers, and particularly all the tours we took. I would recommend this trip to family and friends, and I would definitely do another trip with Gate 1 in the future.
Mark F. Cambridge, MA
We had an incredible time! Loved Tony our guide - it could not have been a better trip.
Donna B. Cincinnati, OH
Our trip was amazing! My sister and I had a great time. Our hotel we're excellent and in a very good location. Toni are guide was so helpful and funny. He made feel safe and secure. He also provide great advice. Thank you for the excellent service!
Britney A. Cypress, CA
The trip was amazing! The accommodations were outstanding and all of the services were seamless. I would recommend it to anyone. Thank you!
Jennifer Y. Langhorne, PA
Very nice Great tour guide and drivers. Nice mix of guided tours and free time.
Diane P. Oscoda, MI
Our trip to Panama through your organization was superb - the transfers, the service, our wonderful guide, Recardo, the hotel, the tours, etc.....were very well done. We enjoyed our trip. thanks!
Patrick R. Silver Springs, MD
Our trip to Guatemala/Honduras was good. Great place for seeing Mayan ruins. Each one spectacular and different from any others. Estuardo was an excellant tour guide and group leader. This was our fourth trip with Gate 1 Travel this year and we have been satisfied with all four of them.
Gwen R. Anoka, MN