Hi Beccs! Re Orange Walk, its not a big tourist area. There is Cuello, and it is on the property of the rum distillery of the same name. They will let you in. Not much left of it. There is another one in the area, Nohmul as I recall, and I think north of Orange Walk, also on private property, but most people are willing to let you in. Ask around, there's a house mear a water tower, as I recall, where the owner lives. They are very nice, you won't have a problem, will even take you to it. There was a place there called, inovatively enough, the Diner to eat at. Only went there once, but it seemed OK. Don't know a thing about Santa Cruz, probably been through it but don't recall. You don't mean Santa Rita, do you?

What will you be teaching? It sounds like a great endeavor. Have fun! Its a small country, so you can do much in the area. Don't forget the baboon sanctuary.

Guatemala is very beautiful, but the political problems is really freaky at times. the crime is worst then the old gov. vs the guerillas. at least in the past you were somewhat safe if you were apolitical. crime effects all. you may want to read this : http://travel.state.gov/guatemala.html

http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com/?Cat=

A couple of recent posts on the Central America topic suggest a problem. Anyone considering travel to Guatemala/Tikal in April would do well to check there.

Two young gringo ladies driving in a car to Tikal? Bad idea. There have been many incidents of robbery on that road, some ending in rape.

The best way to go to Tikal is by air, and stay for two days or more (don't do the one day trip, its a waste of time, you will only be in Tikal a few hours and it isn't worth going for that length of time.)

Don't buy a full pre packaged "tour," the restaurant they will send you to is lousy and everything will cost twice as much; there are some nice little family restaurants right outside the park. There are vans at the airport that will take you to the park for half what the travel agent will charge you. Buy air and hotel room only and you can find a guide to take you around much cheaper, they hang around the entrance.

If you must go by land, go in a large group, with at least a couple of vehicles, and make sure the drivers are armed (ask in advance).