A Textile Traveler's Guide to Guatemala Deborah Chandler 9781732352841

The vibrant character of Guatemala is most visible in its handwoven textiles, which are still in everyday use and readily available in native markets all over the country. A Textile Traveler's Guide to Guatemala is an excellent resource for discovering artisans, markets, shops, and those storied regional textile traditions. It's a beautiful resource for armchair travellers and an essential companion for those seeking an authentic cultural experience in this Central American country. Guatemala is a primary travel destination, especially for North Americans, with more than two million visitors each year. Hundreds of travel companies throughout Guatemala focus their tours on traditional artisanal crafts.

This travel guide offers a practical focus on safety and comfort for adventurous visitors who don't want the stresses and schedules of traditional tour groups. Geared to independent-minded travellers, this guide presents the safest and most accessible methods of travel, where and when to go, where to stay, and what to eat. Expert advice helps the textile traveller know what to look for, how to distinguish high-quality work, and how to shop intelligently and ethically. With abundant photographs, this guide celebrates the colour, joy, and energy of folklife in Guatemala.

Deborah Chandler is the author of the bestselling book Learning to Weave and co-author of Traditional Weavers of Guatemala. She has lived in Guatemala for twenty years where she leads textile-oriented tours. Nine years as Director of the fair trade organisation Mayan Hands has given her the pleasure and honour of working with many Maya weavers, learning from them at every encounter.

Chandler's detailed guide is packed with practical advice for discovering the handwoven textiles of Guatemala, which are still in everyday use and readily available in native markets all over the country. Geared to independent travellers, this beautifully illustrated guidebook explains the safest and most accessible method of travel, where and when to go, where to stay, and even what to eat.