My Journey to Guatemala

My journey to Guatemala began in April 2019 when I had the chance to visit this beautiful country while working for a faith-based NGO called Food for the Hungry. Coming from Arizona, where I worked at their headquarters, I spent less than a week in Guatemala to witness the impactful work of the organization in rural communities in the Department of Alta Verapaz. This eye-opening experience not only showed me a different side of the world but also led me to meet the woman who is now my wife.

Later that same year, I returned to Guatemala to coordinate a mission trip focused on providing theological and leadership training for church leaders. This one-week mission trip was separate from my NGO role, but it sparked a desire in me to further immerse myself in the country. I decided to stay in Alta Verapaz for an additional three months, volunteering for Food for the Hungry and resigning from my position in Arizona to gain field experience.

During my volunteer term, I worked on developing training programs for leaders from various communities, living in a simple studio apartment with basic amenities, including what locals call a “suicide shower.” Despite the challenges, this time allowed me to deeply connect with Guatemala’s indigenous culture and solidified my passion for living abroad.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020, Guatemala went into lockdown, leaving me stranded in the country. Uncertain of when I could return to the US, I took the opportunity to propose to the woman who is now my wife. That, of course,  is a story for another post. Eventually, I managed to board a repatriation flight organized by the US Embassy, but my heart remained in Guatemala.

After the airports reopened later that year, I made the decision to move back to Guatemala full-time, embracing the country as my new home. This journey has been one of discovery, growth, and love, and I am excited to continue exploring all that Guatemala has to offer while helping others visit or plan their relocation to Guatemala.

Whether it is for a cheaper cost of living or just to get out of the rat race and spend some time in Guatemala as a digital nomad, Guatemala Expat is your general contractor for all things Guatemala.