Digital Nomad Life in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala
Summary: San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. The population of San Pedro La Laguna is approximately 15,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in San Pedro La Laguna is estimated to be around $1,000 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in San Pedro La Laguna is approximately $400 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in San Pedro La Laguna is San Juan La Laguna, which is known for its stunning views of Lake Atitlan and its vibrant culture. The weather in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.
How do I meet people in San Pedro La Laguna?
When we asked people living in San Pedro La Laguna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in San Pedro La Laguna often join clubs and activities such as yoga, Spanish classes, and cooking classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art shows. Additionally, many expats join local sports teams or volunteer with local organizations. Expats can also meet people by attending local bars, restaurants, and cafes. Finally, many expats join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in the area," explained one person living in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.
What is life like in San Pedro La Laguna?
When we asked people living in San Pedro La Laguna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in San Pedro La Laguna is generally peaceful and relaxed. The town is small and friendly, with a strong sense of community. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the nearby Mayan ruins to taking part in the local festivals. The cost of living is low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The town is also well-connected, with reliable internet access and plenty of co-working spaces. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, San Pedro La Laguna is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.
Where should I live in San Pedro La Laguna?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One way to find a place to live in San Pedro La Laguna is to ask around the local community. You can ask people you meet in the town, such as shop owners, restaurant owners, or other locals. You can also ask your friends or family if they know of any available housing in the area. Additionally, you can search online for rental listings in San Pedro La Laguna. There are a variety of websites that list rental properties in the area, such as Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway. You can also check local classifieds websites, such as Craigslist, for listings," said one expat in San Pedro La Laguna.
What do I need to know before moving to San Pedro La Laguna?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to San Pedro La Laguna, they said:
"Expats considering retiring in San Pedro La Laguna should be aware that the local language is Spanish, so it is important to have a basic understanding of the language before moving there. Additionally, the cost of living in San Pedro La Laguna is relatively low, so expats should be prepared to live on a budget. It is also important to note that the town is quite small and remote, so expats should be prepared to live without some of the amenities they may be used to. Finally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Guatemala is not as advanced as in other countries, so it is important to have a good health insurance plan in place," explained one person living in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in San Pedro La Laguna?
"Expats in San Pedro La Laguna appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the slower pace of life. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with lush green hills and volcanoes, and the locals are proud of their Mayan heritage and culture. Expats also appreciate the affordability of living in San Pedro La Laguna, with a variety of delicious local food and activities that are easy on the wallet," said one person in San Pedro La Laguna.
"If anything the rebelliousness towards their corrupt government and their acceptance of a day to day optimism of life. I found that the poorest of people generally seemed to be the happiest," said one expat who made the move to San Pedro La Laguna.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in San Pedro La Laguna?
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in San Pedro La Laguna is the language barrier. Many locals speak only Spanish, and even those who do speak English may not be fluent. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life in San Pedro La Laguna, as well as the lack of modern amenities and conveniences. Finally, the cost of living in San Pedro La Laguna can be higher than in other parts of Guatemala, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," said one person in San Pedro La Laguna.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in San Pedro La Laguna for a while?
"If you plan to stay in San Pedro La Laguna for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a Temporary Residency Visa. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be renewed. To apply for the visa, you will need to provide proof of financial stability, a valid passport, and a completed application form. Additionally, you may need to provide a police report from your home country, a medical certificate, and a copy of your birth certificate," said one person in San Pedro La Laguna.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in San Pedro La Laguna?
We asked people in San Pedro La Laguna if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting San Pedro La Laguna. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to be respectful when speaking to locals. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding the use of alcohol and to avoid drinking in public. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local religious beliefs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion," said one person in San Pedro La Laguna.
"Sure, such as being at the cash register and telling the cashier when she was bagging the carton of eggs,"Ten cuidado con mis huevos" which translates to be careful with my balls. Foreigners tend to put the possessive on things, like my car and my eyes and my this and that which translates certain phrases differently in Spanish as noted in my example," said one expat who made the move to San Pedro La Laguna.
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What are healthcare services like in San Pedro La Laguna?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in San Pedro La Laguna, they replied:
"San Pedro La Laguna, a small town in Guatemala, offers a range of healthcare services to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. The town has a public health center, Centro de Salud, which provides basic medical care, including consultations, vaccinations, and maternal care. Additionally, there are several private clinics and pharmacies in the area, offering a variety of medical services and medications. For more specialized care, residents often travel to nearby towns or cities, such as Santiago Atitlán or Sololá, where larger hospitals and specialized clinics are available. These facilities offer a wider range of services, including diagnostic tests, surgeries, and treatments for more complex medical conditions. In San Pedro La Laguna, traditional Mayan medicine is also practiced by local healers, known as curanderos, who use natural remedies and spiritual practices to treat various ailments. This form of healthcare is deeply rooted in the culture and beliefs of the indigenous Tz'utujil Maya people. Overall, healthcare services in San Pedro La Laguna are limited but accessible, with a combination of public and private facilities, as well as traditional healing practices, available to address the healthcare needs of the community," remarked one member in San Pedro La Laguna.
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What are the pros and cons of living in San Pedro La Laguna?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the low cost of living in San Pedro La Laguna, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. They also appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the area, with Lake Atitlan and the surrounding volcanoes offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it easy for expats to feel at home and integrate into the community. Additionally, the availability of Spanish language schools and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture are attractive aspects of living in San Pedro La Laguna. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may dislike the limited availability of certain amenities and services, such as high-speed internet, which can be crucial for remote work. The infrastructure in San Pedro La Laguna may not be as developed as in larger cities, which can lead to occasional power outages and water shortages. The rainy season can also make transportation and daily life more challenging, with muddy roads and increased humidity. Finally, while the expat community is growing, it is still relatively small, which may make it difficult for some individuals to find like-minded people or build a strong social network," explained one expat living in San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Digital nomads and expats talk about what it's like living in San Pedro La Laguna.
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