Exploring Xela (Quetzaltenango): Guatemala’s Cultural Gem in the Western Highlands 🇬🇹

Quetzaltenango — known locally as Xela — is a city rich with culture, history, and highland beauty. In this video, I take you through the heart of Guatemala’s second-largest city, wandering around its stunning historical square and soaking in the charm of the Western Highlands.

From its colonial architecture and indigenous roots to the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant community life, Xela is one of Guatemala’s most underrated gems. Whether you're planning your own trip to Guatemala or just want to experience life in the highlands, this walkthrough of Quetzaltenango is the perfect place to start.

CHAPTERS

0:00 – Welcome to Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala
1:45 – Exploring Central Park: The Heart of Xela
4:22 – The Cathedral & Historic Municipal Buildings
7:10 – Street Views, Architecture & Daily Life
10:03 – Mayan History & Cultural Roots of Xela
13:18 – My Take on the Western Highlands Experience
15:00 – Final Thoughts: Is Xela Worth Visiting?

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WanderBeard is the vagabond name of Ian Daye, former IT specialist for over 25 years who's decided to go wander the world and share his adventures here. I will be traveling initially through the Americas overland, sharing my experiences from various cultures, peoples, and history.

Exploring Xela (Quetzaltenango): Guatemala’s Cultural Gem in the Western Highlands 🇬🇹

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