Entering Antigua was like stepping into a different world when compared to the areas of Guatemala we had visited. Walking through the streets felt familiar and safe, like I was back home in Old Montreal or in any handful of metropolitan European cities. A large number of beautiful churches line the streets, as do a range of cuisine choices, and much of the modern day trappings of 1st world civilization. Most streets consisted of museums, churches, restaurants, local and imported crafts and clothing, electronics and clothing.

There is a lot of history that has led to the development of Antigua to its current condition. The city was, of course, once the capital of Guatemala, but now stands as one of its primary tourist destinations. Many of the old churches are in various state of disrepair, attributed to several devastating earthquakes. It is obvious walking around the city that the majority of commerce is directed at tourism, and with number of armed guards, confirms this point.

The proximity of tourist dollars presumably serves as quite an attraction for investment and property. One shop owner I ran into, originally from Calgary, Canada, told me that the small shop he had bought cost more than a comparable shop in downtown Calgary. Naturally, the difference is monumental when comparing that to the payment of approximately $3,000 (CAN) / ha that Ematerio Perez received for his land in San Miguel Ixtahuacán.

Walking through the city, I felt a security that I did not quite recognize was so patently absent from our previous excursions on this trip. Was it the more well rounded development that led to this feeling? The majestic churches or architecture? The perceived reduction in poverty? The more concrete future for this region?

All these questions were difficult to reconcile, which led themselves to more troubling questions. How could I justify feeling more comfortable in Antigua when the people I had met and whose struggles I had learned of were still forced to endure? If I felt like this is Antigua, how would I feel returning to Canada? I worried that their faces, resistance, realities would fade - they have not.

The spectacular view from the rooftop of Hotel La Tatuana overlooking Antigua and the distant Volcan de Agua, one of three surrounding volcanoes. This was a wonderful spot to collect my thoughts and reflect on the events of the past few days.

Some magnificent ruins on the corner of 5 Calle and 7 Avenida Sud, Antigua, Guatemala.

Approaching La Merced from historic 5 Avenida, a must see cobble stone avenue filled with interesting shops.

Admiring the intricate detail on the face of La Merced.

The central plaza in the heart of Antigua.

Me standing in the courtyard of La Casa del Jade where one can watch technicians create jade statues and jewelry from the rough stones to the finished product. La Casa del Jade is located on 4 Calle Oriente No. 10, Antigua, Guatemala.

A magnificent storm, viewed from 5 Avenida, marks the beginning of the rainy season.