AboutArmand Boissy Expertise All questions related to real estate for Guatemala particularly in the area of Lake Atitlan. Invesment for retirment, rental, buildings, regulations,.... I live in Santa Cruz La Laguna, 15 minutes boat ride from Panajachel where I work. I have 2 little daughters (5-7) who go to Life school everyday. So if you need help to relocate or for a short experience in the lake area don't hesitate. Also I'm an official tour guide for the Guatemalan Institut for tourism (INGUAT) and I have an extensive experience of the country.
Experience Living in the area for 18 years, a company Atitlan Solutions founded 2 1/2 years ago,experience in building private home, condos, hotel
Organizations Real Estate Chamber of Guatemala
Publications Washington Post Magazin
http://www.realestateatitlan.com/page.asp?p=5
Education/Credentials Master in Polical Sciences From France
Question I am a 15 year old white female. one of my best friends and her family are
guatemalan but live in the united states. she and her family invited me to
come with them to visit their relatives in rural areas of guatemala. i really
want to go but my parents are unsure of how safe i would be. i recently heard
of kidnappings and gang violence. i would stay with her family the entire
time. can you please offer some information that would help us decide
whether it would be safe for me?
Answer Dear Sally,
Well I don't know where you mean by rural areas...
I live on lake Atitlan shore and it is in the high lands. Tourist destination but still very rural... and I have 2 daughters 7 and 9 and a kid 8 who all live here and go to school everyday. And safety is not a high concern. Now regarding your particular case. You will be in the best situation, with GUatemalan who have been living in the States and therefore are sensible to your concern and their local family which who looks after you.. Guatemalan are very welcoming people and look after each other....Kidnapping have been all ways going on but foreigners are not a prime target... gang violence it is an on going problem but it is mostly in the big cities in the marginal areas....
I'm sure that you will enjoy your visit and be able to discover the real guatemala...
Armand
PS make sure you are discret with your outfit, no jewelry or overdose make up. blend in
