Closing off an adventurous year in the most adventurous way possible. For two months, my studio remained closed as we embarked on an unforgettable inspiration journey. One that would deeply inspire my art and perspective. In May, I left my full-time career in marketing and graphic design to fully dedicate myself to my passion: abstract art inspired by nature, textures and colors encountered through travel. This journey was more than just an exploration of new places; it was about looking deeper, seeing more and embracing the layers of the world around us.
With my girlfriend Judith and our little son Otis (3), we set off to discover the essence of the ancient Maya civilization. Not just in Mexico, where our love for the culture had already been strong, but also in the breathtaking landscapes of Guatemala. Fun fact: according to the Mayan calendar, my energy is 8 B’atz, often associated with creativity and artistic talent. It felt like a meaningful connection to explore these sacred places with this in mind.
The Journey Begins: Yucatán, Mexico
On November 29, 2024, we boarded a plane to Cancún, heading first to the artistic town of Puerto Morelos. Nestled along the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, we spent our first few days immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture and letting the journey truly begin.
Flores, Guatemala: Where Jungle Meets Ancient History
From Mexico, we flew into the mystical cloud forests of Guatemala and wow! What a place! Our first stop was Flores, a small, colorful island town surrounded by a stunning lake. Our hotel was located at the edge of the jungle, where the sounds of howler monkeys woke us at dawn, blending with the breathtaking hues of the sunrise.
Behind the hotel, we found an ancient Maya pyramid from the lost city of Tayasal, still hidden beneath dense jungle growth. The town itself was a visual feast, with every building painted in bright, cheerful colors. Of course, we couldn’t leave without visiting Tikal, one of the most famous and mesmerizing Maya sites. Nestled deep in the rainforest, the towering temples stood as a testament to an ancient world, while colorful toucan birds, spider monkeys and even a jaguar spider added to the magic of the experience.
Lanquín: The Jade Waters of Semuc Champey
After nearly a week in Flores, a private driver took us on a breathtaking journey through the highlands to Lanquín, a hidden paradise nestled between misty mountains and lush cloud forests. One of the most inspiring experiences here was our visit to a local cacao plantation, a place where nature, tradition and craftsmanship came together in the most beautiful way.
Walking through the plantation, we were surrounded by towering green mountains and the soothing sound of a fast-flowing river nearby. The cacao trees stood tall, their branches filled with fruit in the most mesmerizing color combinations. Deep reds, golden yellows, soft purples and rich oranges. Each pod felt like a tiny work of art, shaped by nature’s hand.
The owners welcomed us into their home, where we got to experience the entire process firsthand. We roasted the cacao beans over an open fire, their rich aroma filling the air. Then, using traditional tools, we ground them into a smooth, dark paste, the essence of pure cacao. It was incredible to witness the transformation, to feel the connection between the land, the people and this ancient tradition.
As the day unfolded, we shared stories, laughter and moments of quiet appreciation. This wasn’t just a tour, it was a glimpse into a way of life, a deeper understanding of something we often take for granted. And in the end, it wasn’t just the taste of cacao that lingered, but the experience itself.
Lake Atitlán: A Canvas of Colors
Next, we traveled by minibus to the legendary Lake Atitlán, surrounded by towering volcanoes and home to some of the most vibrant villages in Guatemala. The only way to explore its shores was by lancha. A small motorboat that connects the different towns.
As we arrived, the sky welcomed us with a pastel-colored sunset over Volcán San Pedro. We stayed in a beautifully restored house in Santiago Atitlán, where our mornings began with the sight of hummingbirds dancing among flower-covered trellises. At night, we sat by the lake, mesmerized by the reflections of the fiery sunset while enjoying the warmth of a small bonfire.
We also visited the artistic villages of San Juan La Laguna and San Pedro La Laguna, where vibrant murals and hand-painted houses turned the streets into an open-air gallery.
Antigua: A City of Volcanic Energy
Our final stop in Guatemala was the charming colonial city of Antigua, but not before visiting the ancient Maya ruins of Iximché along the way. After a quick tuk-tuk ride through the countryside, we wandered through the remains of this historic city, imagining life as it once was.
In Antigua, we stayed in San Juan, a quiet neighborhood with a perfect view of Volcán de Fuego, which erupts every 20 minutes, lighting up the night sky with bursts of fire and ash. The city itself was a masterpiece, filled with cobbled streets, colorful facades and an undeniable energy that felt both ancient and alive.
From here, our journey led us back to Mexico. But that’s a story for Part 2...