Getting Ready
Passports
You will need a passport to travel to and from Guatemala. It takes about 3
months to acquire a passport. It is possible to get one in 2-3 weeks but rush
charges will apply. Be sure to make several copies of your passport. Leave one
at home with family or friends; pack one in each of your bags. This will ease
the process of applying for a replacement in the case of loss or theft.
Luggage
Be sure to pack reasonably sized luggage, wheels are always a plus. You will be
required to carry your own luggage through the airport and again on campus.
Without paying penalties, the airlines restrict you to check two bags up to 50
pounds each and one 40 pound carry-on.
Lost Luggage
In case you’re checked luggage is lost, be sure to pack some "essentials" in
your carry-on so you will have enough to get by until your luggage is returned.
If your luggage is lost, the airlines will either deliver it to the campus or it
can be picked up from the airport. We recommend keeping a copy of the
(Guatemalan Mission Outreach) contact information with you. It recommended
putting a special color ribbon all the team luggage. Make sure to count all
pieces of luggage (checked or and carry-on) it’s the best way to keep tract.
Departure Tax
Guatemala has a required $3 (or Q20) departure tax to exit the country (cash
only; no cards accepted). It's good to keep this money separate from spending
money, possibly with your passport.
Getting through Guatemala’s Airport upon
Arrival:
Recommended Shots
See your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for
immunizations to take effect. We highly recommend them if you plan on
interacting with the babies and smaller children.
Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)
Hepatitis B
Terrain
G.M.O. is located in the mountains, an
hour and a half northwest of Guatemala City. At 7300 feet above sea level, the
terrain around us is steep with lush fields for farming. We're located in
village Panimaquin, Chimaltenango. San Andres Itzapa our closes town has a
population of about 25 thousand. The city of Antigua is only a forty minute
drive.
Temperature
Located in the mountains, the altitude curtails the power of the tropical sun,
resulting in a moderate climate with perfect temperatures all year round.
Statistically, December and January are the "coldest" months with an average of
68° F, April is the "hottest" month with an average temperature of 77° F.
Though the days are typically warm, the temperature drops at night. We recommend
dressing in long pants and a light sweater in the evening and sleeping in a
sweat suit or warm pajamas.
Seasons
The four seasons, as they are known in most parts of the world, don't have much
meaning because of the almost constant temperatures. Instead, we distinguish
only between the dry season, which we call summer, and the rainy season, which
we call winter. Don't let the term rainy season scare you, however. It is not
nearly as bad as it sounds. The rain rarely lasts for more than an hour or two
at a time, leaving the air cool and fresh and providing sufficient moisture for
trees and flowers to bloom and blossom.
We recommend bringing a poncho during the
rainy season in case you are outside and get caught in a shower.
Where you’ll sleep:
We have several places for groups to stay as they visit us. There are rooms for
men's and women's use. Some sleeping quarters have shower facilities, while
others require the use of external "private" showers.
For group leaders our sleeping quarters have beds, the other group members have
foam mats.
Some things to remember:
A pillow
Sleeping bag
Earplugs (In case there is loud snoring.)
Sandals or flip-flops for the showers
Culture Shock
One of the wonderful things about visiting us in Guatemala is the chance to
broaden your view of the world. There are different cultures, languages, and
people; Christ's love covers them all. Below are a few things to keep in mind as
you visit our project and country.
Clothing
Clothes that expose arm pits and thighs are not acceptable. People often
dress-up when going into a city. Khaki pants, long skirts and jeans are
appropriate.
At the Project:
Alcohol & Smoking
Group members must refrain from abusive language, drinking alcoholic beverages
and smoking.
Sexual Abuse
Guatemalans in general are very “touchy” people. Just remember to “avoid all
appearance of evil.”
Work Ethic
Everyone’s job description is, “whatever’s necessary,” which is both physical
and humbling at times. Always keep in mind that the team is here to serve, not
to be served.
Denominational Beliefs
People from many denominational backgrounds come to Panimaquine. There may be a
difference of opinion with some doctrinal issues. However, any problems you may
have with G.M.O.’s teachings must be discussed with the staff in private — NEVER
with the project members.
Gender Roles
Men are given the role of dominant, decision maker while women are given the
role of submissive supporter. Female work team members should not confront male
nationals.
Safety
On campus in Panimaquin:
