Every now and then, you just want something peaceful, spacious, and homey. Casa Renaissance is the perfect place to get away from it all. We were blown away by the size of the rooms. High ceilings, two double beds, a t.v., desk, free wifi, hot water, and shared bath cost us Q100 (USD$13). Casa Renaissance is owned by a friendly Dutch expat and run by Poepie (pronounced poop-pee), the well-fed, resident dog. The hostel is conveniently located three blocks from the main square in Quetzaltenango on 9a Calle 11-26.

The set lunch at Sagrado Corozon is savory, filling, and cheap. Your meal will come with a salad that will include more than just lettuce, tomato, and onion. You'll get a juice and dessert, usually a fruit. Small plates are 20Q (USD$2.50), large plates are 30Q (USD$3.85). The restaurant is located just 2 blocks from the Central Park at the intersection of 9a Calle and 11 Avenida, and is open Mon-Sat, 8am-8pm, and Sun, 11am-3pm.