Best Foot Forward
When overseas, you are viewed as international ambassadors of the United States and other respective nations. You are also considered ambassadors of Mentors International. Courtesy, respect, and responsibility are important. Customs clearance and government approval are critical for continuing our outreach activities in foreign nations. Possession of illegal drugs or artifacts by one team member, for example, would jeopardize the entire mission of this and future expeditions. Each year more and more governments close their doors to foreign programs. Your maturity and general demeanor, under the watchful eyes of the host countries, are important to Mentors International. It is likely that you will be exposed to aspects of a different culture not accessible to tourists. It is this added dimension that makes your mission exciting, but at the same time, requires extra sensitivity, discretion and adaptability.
Guatemala Quick Info
Capital: Guatemala City. Population: 13+ million. Area: 42,043 sq. miles Language: Spanish (Mam is also spoken in Huehuetenango). Government: Constitutional Democratic Republic. Neighboring Countries: Mexico, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador
>>Want to learn a few quick phraswes in Spanish? Click here!
CURRENCY
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
1.00 US Dollar = 7.80 Quetzales (2013)
WEATHER
“DRY” SEASON: November – April (hot in the afternoons, cooler in the evenings)
*rain is occasional
HIGH: 85°F – 90°F / LOW: 60°F – 65°F
RAINY SEASON: May – October (hot and humid in the afternoons, cooler and damp in the evenings)
*rain is frequent (downpours in the evening)
HIGH: 80°F – 85°F / LOW: 55°F – 60°F
FOOD
During the expedition, Mentors International will provide 1 daily meal (lunch) to all volunteers while in the project. Hotels and restaurants will provide breakfast and dinner. The local diet consists of tortillas, beans, rice, and vegetables. Expedition participants can expect to eat standard American foods combined with local elements: cereals, breads, soups, chicken, salsas, etc. Mentors International will also provide drinks such as milk, fruit juices, and protein/granola bars. Participants are encouraged to bring personal food and snacks that will not be available in the villages (supplement bars, sweets, etc.).