In Santa Catarina Palopo & San Antonio Palopo

In addition to the places listed here, Terraza Choi (tel. 502/5847-4852; www.terrazachoi.com) is a new pretty bed-and-breakfast, with three cozy rooms located on the lakeshore in a converted home.

On the Northwest Shore of Lake Atitlan

In addition to the places listed here, I like the eclectic, artistic touches at the Hotel Aaculaax (tel. 502/5287-0521; www.aaculaax.com) in San Marcos. In Santa Cruz, backpackers and adventure travelers tend to congregate and stay at La Iguana Perdida (tel. 502/5706-4771; www.laiguanaperdida.com), located just above the town's main dock.

Most folks eat all their meals at their hotels, but if you do venture out, there are a couple of good options in each of the towns. In San Marcos, I recommend the pizzas, pastas, and vegetarian fare at Il Giardino, or the mixed menu, pool tables, and twice-weekly movies offered up at Blind Lemon's.

In Jabalito, the new Club Ven Aca (tel. 502/5051-4520; www.clubvenaca.com) is a hip spot with a creative and varied international menu, a pool and Jacuzzi open to day-trippers, and occasional nighttime DJs, bands, and raves.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.