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Guide
Flores, Guatemala π¬πΉ
#788
,
Nomad Score:
61%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Flores is a picturesque island town located in the northern part of Guatemala, near Lake PetΓ©n ItzΓ‘. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 20,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of 20 Mbps, with options for 100 Mbps in some coworking spaces. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 7.85 GTQ; ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 110V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Tigo and Claro, with good coverage in most areas. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Western Union and local banks offer services, with Revolut and Wise being common among expats. |
π Accommodation | Options range from $15/night hostels to $80/night boutique hotels. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards accepted in many restaurants and shops, but cash is still widely used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available, typically costing between $20-$50/night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Los Amigos and Casa de la Isla offer budget-friendly options. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The main island area offers scenic views and close proximity to restaurants and shops. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The areas around the lake and island's main square provide peaceful environments for longer stays. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Red Monkey is a popular coworking space in Flores offering reliable internet and a community vibe. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Flor offers good coffee, free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable atmosphere for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Drop-in meetups occur frequently at The Red Monkey and other local cafes. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Look for local expat community events on Facebook groups dedicated to Guatemalan nomads. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is available in surrounding areas, and local tuk-tuks can be hired for short trips. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bikes can be rented from local shops for about $5 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is around 2 hours away at Playa Santa Elena. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Avianca operates flights in and out of Flores. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and United have routes connecting Flores to major U.S. cities. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Flores is accessible via the main highway leading to the Tikal region. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Flores does not have a train service; buses and shuttles connect to major cities. |
π Public Transport Passes | Local bus and shuttle services run frequently, with no formal passes available. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses to nearby towns and attractions like Tikal cost around $2-$3. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital PoliclΓnica is the main healthcare facility offering basic medical services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes are offered at La Casa de la Cultura. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | There are a few smaller gyms; the Fitness Center offers basic equipment. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats provide wash-and-fold services for about $2 per load. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | TukTuk is popular for local food delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Ceviche de pescado is a must-try local seafood dish. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | CafΓ© VΓa is known for its vegan and vegetarian-friendly menu. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | La Casa de la Abuela offers delicious traditional desserts and pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like Mercado de Flores are great for fresh produce and local delicacies. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local e-commerce is developing; Amazon delivers in Guatemala. |
π Grocery Delivery | Some local supermarkets offer delivery services for groceries. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The waterfront bars and cafes are popular for nightlife, especially on weekends. |
π» Local Brewery | Donaire is a small local brewery known for craft beers. |
π· Wine Bars | Enoteca serves a selection of wines and tapas. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer delicious tamales and pupusas. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizza is available at several restaurants, including Pizzeria El Forno. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Cathedral of Flores and the Santa Barbara Ruins are must-visit landmarks. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Museo del Islote offers insights into the local culture and history. |
π° Historical Sites | The ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal are a short distance away and worth the trip. |
π Religious Sites | The Church of San Vicente Ferrer is a significant local religious site. |
π Annual Events | The Festival of San Juan in June is a vibrant local celebration. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The colorful colonial buildings on the island enhance the town's charm. |
π Theater Venues | Local performances can be found at various community centers around the town. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The local market is a great spot to shop for handcrafted goods and souvenirs. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music can often be found at local restaurants and bars, especially on weekends. |
π¨ Street Art | Look out for murals around the island that reflect local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Classes are offered at various local establishments, focusing on traditional Guatemalan cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local artists showcase their work at small galleries throughout the town. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Many buildings in Flores date back to the colonial period and are well-preserved. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Flores is known for its unique blend of Mayan and colonial heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Lake PetΓ©n ItzΓ‘ offers opportunities for kayaking and swimming. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with extensive trails and wildlife. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | There are paths along Lake PetΓ©n ItzΓ‘ that are perfect for walking and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoints from the island offer stunning sunsets over the lake. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Tikal National Park is ideal for birdwatching, with numerous migratory species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Check with local guidelines, but some spots along the lake may allow bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL offers reliable parcel delivery services out of Flores. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops provide basic repair services for phones and laptops. |
π Table Tennis Spots | The community center has facilities for games and activities, including table tennis. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Spanish language schools such as La Casa de la Cultura offer courses. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Flores has a small library where books and quiet study space is available. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Local community centers host events and activities open to newcomers. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | The gaming scene is limited, but various local cafes cater to gamers. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No major casinos in Flores; nearby towns may have limited options. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $40,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $32,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $72,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $54,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $80,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $850 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $68,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
π¦ Tax System | Residents taxed on worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 31% |
π§Ύ VAT | 12% VAT applicable. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax varies based on location and property type. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 3% during property purchase. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No specific tax benefits, standard rates apply. |