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Bookmark & shareThe US dollar is the most widely accepted foreign currency. Credit cards are accepted at many city hotels, restaurants and shops.
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Currency
- Name
- Quetzal
- Symbol
- Q
The quetzal is divided into 100 centavos. Notes currently in circulation are: Q1, Q5, Q10, Q20, Q50 and Q100.
Coins currently in circulation are: 1 centavo, 5 centavos, 10 centavos, 25 centavos, 50 centavos and 1 quetzal.
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Changing Your Money
It's a waste of time trying to change anything other than US dollars - even currencies from neighboring countries will probably be difficult to exchange. If you do have a different currency, try the casas de cambio (currency-exchange office) at Flores or Guatemala City airports. You'll find ATMs (cash machines - cajeros automáticos ) for Visa/Plus System cards in all but the smallest towns, and MasterCard/Cirrus ATMs in many places too. In addition, many banks give cash advances on Visa cards, and some on MasterCard. You can make many purchases with these cards as well as with American Express.
Banks generally give the best exchange rates on both cash and US dollar travelers checks. If you can't find an open bank, you can often change cash (and occasionally checks) in travel agencies, hotels or shops. Amex is easily the most recognized travelers check brand.
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Money Tips
Take care when withdrawing money from ATMs as robberies do occur. Only carry the money, cards, checks and valuables that you need - leave the rest in a sealed, signed envelope in your hotel's safe. Having a credit and debit card (carried separately) gives you a backup if one is lost or stolen.
Prices in Guatemala are very reasonable. You can pick up a one-plate meal for less than US$2.00 . Even if you want to splash out, you should be able to get a room with a bathroom, plus two or three meals, for US$25.00 a day.
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Sample Price Guide
- litre of petrol
- US$ 1.00
- small bottle of water
- US$ 0.80
- souvenir t-shirt
- US$ 6.00
- small bottle of beer
- US$ 2.00
- chuchito street snack
- US$ 0.50
- 1hr 2nd-class bus ride
- US$ 1.00
- week of Spanish classes with homestay
- US$ 100-200
Average Room Prices
Low Mid High Deluxe US$5-20 US$20-35 US$35-50 US$50+ Average Meal Prices
Low Mid High Deluxe US$2-5 US$5-10 US$10-15 US$15+ -
Tipping
Waiters expect a tip of around 10%, on top of the 10% IVA (value-added tax). Hotels charge a 10% tourist tax in addition to the 12% IVA. Most hotels and shops have fixed prices, but you'll be expected to bargain at markets - remember to keep your sense of humor and perspective.
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
