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Skipping Costa Rica, Guatemala is the new must-visit destination in Central America. Guatemala has ancient Mayan cities, natural wonders, and colorful towns to explore. Even though Guatemala City (Guatemala's main city) is only a two-hour flight from Miami, once there you will feel completely transported. If your stay is less than a week, a couple of days in Antigua exploring the colonial city, followed by a few days at Lake Atitlan, offers the right combination of tranquility and adventure. For more information on things to do and places to stay in these beautiful destinations, see.

Once you arrive in Guatemala City, head straight to Antigua, 45 minutes away, and see why UNESCO chose it as a World Heritage Site. This colonial city with its colorful cafes and Spanish-style churches lining its cobblestone streets is truly picturesque. Surrounded by three volcanoes.

Set amidst six acres of gardens, Villa Boquet (open in new tab) is a wonderful 11-room hacienda that offers the perfect respite while enjoying Antigua. When not exploring the city, discover the hotel's hidden gardens and plazas overlooking the Volcán de Agua.

After admiring the vibrant textiles in Antigua, learn how to dye using floral and natural techniques at the Luna Zorro Studio Textile Workshop (open in new tab). Using herbs and leaves from the garden, you can create your own tie-dye design to take home.

You may need to take motion sickness medicine to tackle the three-hour drive from Antigua to Lake Atitlan in the western highlands of Guatemala, but the sensational charm of the lake is worth it. There is another option: a three-hour drive to Lake Atitlan in the highlands of western Guatemala.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlan is Casa Palopo (opens in new tab), a boutique hotel in a converted private home, decorated with local artwork and textiles. The tranquil oasis may tempt you to stay here for the entire trip, but you won't regret venturing out to the nearby villages, especially nearby Santa Catarina and the colorful town square.

At Casa Palopo, count your blessings with Tomas, a local shaman who practices Mayan spirituality. Chant over a mandala and drop prayer candles into a small fire for good luck.

The 12 Mayan villages surrounding Lake Atitlan are known for something different: pottery, weaving, yoga, language schools. Book a day boat tour to explore some of the towns and learn about their unique offerings.

If you fall in love with Guatemala, book your trip here (opens in new tab).