What languages are spoken in Guatemala?
Guatemalan Spanish is the local variant of the Spanish language. Twenty-one Mayan languages are spoken, especially in rural areas, as well as two non-Mayan Amerindian languages, Xinca, an indigenous language, and Garifuna, an Arawakan language spoken on the Caribbean coast.
Why is Spanish spoken in Guatemala?
Nearly 93% of the population of Guatemala speak Spanish. The language was introduced in the country by the Spanish colonists and was taught to the indigenous inhabitants of the country by missionaries and the earliest Guatemalan schools. Today, Spanish acts as the primary medium of instructions in schools nationwide.
Is English spoken in Guatemala?
English is recognized as a co-official language even in Guatemala, where it is the first tongue of many inhabitants of Izabal Department. But a movement is afoot to make it the second tongue of all educated Guatemalans.
How many Mayan languages are there in Guatemala?
21 Mayan languages
How do you say hello in Guatemalan?
Simply saying “hola” is considered too casual. Other greetings include “buenos días” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), and “buenas noches” (good evening).
What is the religion in Guatemala?
Christianity remains strong and vital for the life of Guatemalan society, but its composition has changed considerably in recent decades. Roman Catholicism was the official religion in Guatemala during the colonial era and currently has a special status under the constitution.
How safe is Guatemala?
Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America, one of the world’s highest homicide rates and a very low arrest and detention rate. Most incidents of violent crime are drug- and gang-related. They occur throughout the country, including in tourist destinations.
What is Guatemala famous for?
Guatemala is best known for its volcanic landscape, fascinating Mayan culture and the colorful colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But this small Central American country has a wealth of homegrown produce and talent.
What currency is used in Guatemala?
Guatemalan quetzal
Can you wear shorts in Guatemala?
Modest, feminine clothing is a must when visiting Guatemala. Skirts or dresses that fall below the knee are a common choice for business and pleasure. Khaki pants or dress slacks can also be worn in some areas, though shorts are typically discouraged and often identify a woman as a tourists.
Are US dollars accepted in Guatemala?
The US dollar is by far the most widely accepted foreign currency in Guatemala; that said, it is not a semi-official one, and you can’t get by with a fistful of greenbacks and no quetzals. Euros and other foreign currencies are tricky to cash; try foreign-owned hotels or stores.
Is Guatemalan Hispanic or Latino?
Guatemalans are the sixth largest Latin/Hispanic group in the United States and the second largest Central American population after Salvadorans. Half of the Guatemalan population is situated in two parts of the country, the Northeast and Southern California.
Do Mayans still exist?
Do The Maya Still Exist? Descendants of the Maya still live in Central America in modern-day Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and parts of Mexico. The majority of them live in Guatemala, which is home to Tikal National Park, the site of the ruins of the ancient city of Tikal.
What country is next to Guatemala?
Land. Guatemala is bounded to the north and west by Mexico, to the northeast by Belize and (along a short coastline) by the Gulf of Honduras, to the east by Honduras, to the southeast by El Salvador, and to the south by the Pacific Ocean.