In Antigua. Went on the Elizabeth Bell walking tour in morning and went to her Agency to book trasport for either of the two towns known for the kites on Day of the Saints. Her Agency said they do not do the transport but would get the information from other agencies they work with. When we came back, Elizabeth Bell said that no reputable agency would do transport and warned (extremely strongly) how we should not bring anything valuable and basically indicated we would be in danger.
Has anyone gone. Is it dangerous. Advice appreciated.
ladyb
1
aloysius
Either you have misunderstood the advice, or it was bad advice to begin with. I have been to the kite festival in Sumpango, spent about 12 hours there, saw no shootings, knifings, fights or accidents. It is not dangerous, at least no more so than any other crowded event would be most anyplace in the world, including the road accident hazards of getting there and back. Theft is a significant concern, so sew your money in your pants, and if you take a bag or camera guard them very carefully. Pick pockets and bag snatchers will be working, just like they do an most any crowded event around the world. The kites are awesome, and well worth photos, including construction of the larger ones as well as attempts to get them airborne. Ask at the tourist office about tours, which are for the most part simply scheduled transportation. Or ask at some tour agencies.
Buen viaje!
2
smokemon
Yes, I agree with Alo. Go and have a good time, just heed the advice above as in any crowd situation. Perhaps stop at the Animal Aware booth at the festival, you'll meet some nice people.
3
dizlaly
You're so lucky! You couldn't be in a better place for such a cool festival. Be careful, but know that this is THE place where barriletes are made. so cool.
4
latina alma
Aloysius is absolutely right.....the only major safety issue is with theft and it is very, very common so use your wits:moneybelt for passport and credit cards and large bills, inside your clothing or other safety precaution. If you carry anything, be sure it is something you are willing to lose. LIkely the Bell agency does not want to fool with these trips. THey are a hassle because the drivers have trouble getting back in to pick up passengers with alot of very tight driving in crowds to get in to pick you up and these trips dpn't sell for high prices. Elizabeth Bell ONLY does high end stuff. I'm not criiticizing her...one works just as hard to put together cheap trips and tours as they do for more costly ones so she leaves the cheapie stuff for the Guatemalan operators.
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