ANTIGUA ........Founded in 1543, Antigua served as the colonial capital of Guatemala for over 200 years. And, it was only due the resilience of the citizens of this beautiful city that it was the number one "must see" destination in the country. (I, of course, would argue that it should be Tikal, but the guide book said Antigua. It was probably true because Antigua certainly did have a whole lot more traffic.)

The city which survived earthquakes, volcanoes and floods was still a jewel to behold. A walk down any street included colonial style buildings, terra cotta roof tops, cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, flowers and so, so many people.

The city of Antigua was a beautiful stroll. Cobblestone streets, which were extremely beautiful and equally hard to walk, were everywhere. There were a lot of indigenous women in such colorful costumes. Most wouldn't allow photographs unless you bought something or paid them. I told a couple of women that I didn't buy souvenirs. I only took photographs. My conversation was in Spanish, but a young girl quickly replied in English, "In your dreams!"

I never take photos of people who give me bad memories.