Thinking about moving to San Juan La Laguna? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in San Juan La Laguna.
San Juan La Laguna, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlan in Guatemala, is a place that has attracted many expats and travelers over the years. With its vibrant indigenous culture, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s easy to see why. But like any place, living in San Juan La Laguna has its pros and cons. In this article, we’ll delve into the advantages and disadvantages of making this Guatemalan town your home.
Pros of Living in San Juan La Laguna
One of the biggest draws of San Juan La Laguna is undoubtedly its natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and sits on the edge of Lake Atitlan, often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The views are simply breathtaking, and the opportunities for outdoor activities are plentiful. You can hike up the nearby Indian Nose mountain for a sunrise view, kayak on the lake, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
San Juan La Laguna is also a cultural hub. The town is known for its strong indigenous culture, with the majority of the population being Tz’utujil Maya. This is reflected in the local art, textiles, and traditions that are still very much alive. For instance, you can visit the local women’s weaving cooperative, Asociación Ixoq Ajkeem, to learn about traditional weaving techniques and even take a class.
Another advantage of living in San Juan La Laguna is the cost of living. Compared to many Western countries, the cost of living in Guatemala is significantly lower. You can rent a comfortable house for a fraction of what you would pay in the US or Europe, and the cost of food, transportation, and other necessities is also very affordable. This makes San Juan La Laguna an attractive option for retirees or digital nomads looking to stretch their budget.
Finally, the community in San Juan La Laguna is something that many expats appreciate. The town has a small, tight-knit feel, and locals are generally welcoming and friendly. There are also several volunteer opportunities available for those looking to give back to the community. For example, you could volunteer at the local school, Escuela Caracol, which follows the Waldorf education philosophy and serves both local and expat children.
Cons of Living in San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala
While there are many advantages to living in San Juan La Laguna, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the main challenges is the language barrier. While Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, many locals in San Juan La Laguna speak Tz’utujil as their first language. This can make communication difficult if you don’t speak either language.
Another potential downside is the lack of certain amenities. While San Juan La Laguna has basic services like grocery stores and medical clinics, it doesn’t have the same level of amenities that you might be used to in a larger city. For example, there are no large supermarkets or shopping malls, and the nearest hospital is in Sololá, about an hour away. This means that you may need to make regular trips to larger towns or cities for certain items or services.
While the cost of living is generally low, it’s worth noting that wages in Guatemala are also low. If you’re planning to work locally, you may find that salaries are significantly lower than what you’re used to. This is something to consider if you’re relying on local employment to support yourself.
Finally, while the natural beauty of San Juan La Laguna is a big draw, it also comes with some challenges. The town is located in a seismic zone, and earthquakes are not uncommon. Additionally, the lake level has been rising in recent years, which has led to flooding in some areas. While these are not everyday concerns, they are factors to consider when deciding whether to make San Juan La Laguna your home.
