Flores: The Jewel of Guatemala's Petén Region

• HelloChuq'a
  [choo-kah]
• GoodbyeChiri'
  [chee-ree]
• YesE'
  [eh]
• NoMa'
  [mah]
• Please/You're welcomeJay
  [high]
• Thank youMatyox
  [mah-cho]
• Excuse me/SorryTz'ikin
  [tz'ee-keen]
• How are you?Laq b'antiox
  [lahk bahn-tee-ohsh]
• Fine. And you?K'aslemte'
  [kahs-lem-tay]
• Do you speak English?At ajtz'ib'al inglés?
  [aht ah-ts'ee-bahl een-glehs]
• I don't understandMa xk'un
  [mah shkoon]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseXk'ask'utuk re q'ijob' jay
  [shkahskoo-took reh kee-hohb high]
• I don't eat meatMa xk'utinik re tij
  [mah shkoo-tee-neek reh teeh]
• Cheers!Jalatuun!
  [hah-lah-toon]
• I would like to pay, pleaseXk'ask'utuk re jay
  [shkahskoo-took reh high]

• Help!Achu!
  [ah-choo]
• Go away!K'ut chik!
  [koot cheek]
• Call the Police!Tz'ib' chik k'ajolb'il!
  [ts'eeb' cheek kah-hohl-beel]
• Call a doctor!Tz'ib' chik ajk'olb'il!
  [ts'eeb' cheek ahk'ohl-beel]
• I'm lostXk'utinik re k'ajolb'il
  [shkoo-tee-neek reh kah-hohl-beel]
• I'm illXk'utinik re k'ajolb'il
  [shkoo-tee-neek reh kah-hohl-beel]

• I'd like to buy...Xk'ask'utuk k'ajb'il...
  [shkahskoo-took kahk-b'eel]
• I'm just lookingXk'utinik re jolomaj
  [shkoo-tee-neek reh hoh-loh-mahk]
• How much is it?Q'ijob' xk'aslemte'?
  [kee-hohb kahs-lem-tay]
• That's too expensiveQ'ijob' k'aslemte' xk'ab'anoj
  [kee-hohb kahs-lem-tay kahb-ah-nohsh]
• Can you lower the price?At tz'ib'al k'i'xik re xk'ab'anoj?
  [aht ts'ee-bahl kee-sheek reh kahb-ah-nohsh]

• What time is it?Q'ijob' winaq?
  [kee-hohb wee-nahk]
• It's one o'clockWinaq jun
  [wee-nahk hoon]
• Half past (10)Winaq aq'ab'al (10)
  [wee-nahk ahk-ahb-ahl (10)]
• MorningK'aslemte' k'iche'
  [kahs-lem-tay kee-chay]
• AfternoonK'aslemte' xk'aslemte'
  [kahs-lem-tay shkahs-lem-tay]
• EveningK'aslemte' ruk'u'x
  [kahs-lem-tay roo-koo-sh]
• YesterdayK'aslemte' re k'ajolb'il
  [kahs-lem-tay reh kah-hohl-beel]
• TodayK'aslemte'
  [kahs-lem-tay]
• TomorrowK'aslemte' re k'ajolb'il
  [kahs-lem-tay reh kah-hohl-beel]
• 1Jun
  [hoon]
• 2Ka'wiq
  [kah-weesh]
• 3Oxib'
  [oh-sheeb]
• 4Kan
  [kahn]
• 5Wuqub'
  [woo-koob]
• 6Waqib'
  [wah-keeb]
• 7Wuqub' k'ajolb'il
  [woo-koob kah-hohl-beel]
• 8B'elej
  [beh-lehkh]
• 9B'elej k'ajolb'il
  [beh-lehkh kah-hohl-beel]
• 10Lajuj
  [lah-hoohkh]

• Where's a/the...?K'ut chik a/a'...
  [koot cheek ah-ah]
• What's the address?K'ut q'ijob' ronojel?
  [koot kee-hohb roh-noh-hel]
• Can you show me (on the map)?At tz'ib'al xk'ut chik (re map)?
  [aht ts'ee-bahl shkoot cheek (reh mahp)]
• When's the next (bus)?Q'ijob' k'ut chik chiqin (bus)?
  [kee-hohb koot cheek cheek-een (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Xk'ask'utuk re k'aj chiqin (...)
  [shkahskoo-took reh kah-h cheek-een]

Flores is located on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, and its history dates back to the time of the Maya civilization. The ancient city of Tayasal, which once stood where Flores now lies, was one of the last Maya cities to fall to the Spanish. The Itza Maya people called this city 'Noj Petén,' meaning 'Great Island.' With its temples and palaces, Tayasal was a center of Maya culture and religion.

In 1697, Spanish conquistadors led by Martín de Urzúa y Arizmendi finally captured Tayasal, marking the end of Maya resistance to Spanish rule in the region. The Itza Maya had resisted Spanish control for nearly 200 years after the fall of other major Maya cities. The Spanish built a church and other colonial structures on the ruins of Tayasal, setting the foundations for modern-day Flores.

Following the Spanish conquest, Flores became an important administrative center in the Petén region. The colonial authorities built a grid of narrow streets and colonial-style buildings. Despite its remote location, Flores served as a hub for missionary activity and local governance. The town’s unique blend of Spanish and Maya heritage is still evident in its architecture and local customs.

Guatemala gained independence from Spain in 1821, and Flores continued to develop as a regional center. The 20th century brought significant changes, including improved infrastructure and increased tourism. The discovery of nearby archaeological sites like Tikal has turned Flores into a gateway for tourists exploring the ancient Maya world. Modern amenities have been added, yet the town retains its historic charm.

Flores is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, which blend indigenous Maya traditions with Catholic influences. One of the most notable is the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Asunción in August, featuring parades, traditional dances, and religious ceremonies. These events provide a vivid glimpse into the town’s rich cultural tapestry, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

The island of Flores is nestled in the heart of Lake Petén Itzá, one of Guatemala’s largest and most biodiverse lakes. The lake and its surrounding area are home to diverse flora and fauna, including many endemic species. Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect this precious ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty.

Flores is located in the Petén department of Guatemala. The nearest international airport is Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS), located just a few kilometers from the island. You can fly directly into Flores from Guatemala City or Belize City. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Guatemala City, which typically takes around 8-10 hours. The town is also accessible by car, and the drive from Guatemala City takes approximately 8 hours.

Flores is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable means of transportation within Flores and the nearby areas. For longer distances, such as visiting the Tikal ruins, you can book a tour or hire a taxi. Car rentals are also available if you prefer to explore the region at your own pace. Public buses (known as 'chicken buses') operate between Flores and other towns in Petén, although they can be crowded and less comfortable.

The official currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Flores, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Flores, but it is wise to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in major towns.

Flores is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded places. While Flores itself is relatively safe, some surrounding areas may have higher crime rates. Always check with local authorities or your accommodation for the latest safety information before venturing out.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 122 for medical emergencies. The local hospital in Santa Elena, just across the causeway from Flores, provides medical services. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest embassy or consulate if you require consular assistance.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and be mindful of ongoing services. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'hola'. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Flores like a local, visit the local markets in Santa Elena where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their town and culture. Don’t miss out on taking a boat ride on Lake Petén Itzá to explore nearby villages and attractions. Try local specialties such as 'tapado' (a seafood stew) and 'rellenitos' (fried plantains filled with sweetened black beans).