"Three days in Key West: jet skiing two oceans, touring Truman's Little White House, snorkeling with tarpon, and discovering a city far deeper than Duval Street."

Ten years ago, Guatemala was a chapter in a much broader adventure. I was making my way up from Panama during the holidays, traveling with a close friend and his family. That journey took me through the rich culture of Antigua, the ancient wonder of Tikal, and eventually into Belize for a mission trip followed by some unforgettable scuba diving. It was a trip defined by exploration. This time, Guatemala was something entirely different.

This trip was especially nostalgic—three decades have passed since my last visit. The islands have changed with time: more development, soaring real estate prices, and greater climate impacts. But the aloha spirit, the rich culture, and the natural beauty remain undiminished.