Moving soon to the area of Jocotenango / Antigua. Safety questions

Member since 01 February 2017

ladulcecitaMember01 February 2017 06:30:30

Hi. First post- so much pressure!

We are moving (self, husband and children- 1 year, 11, 13, and 16 years old) to Antigua / Jocotenango area.

We are bilingual, have some family in Guatemala, and have visited the home that we are renting. It is at the bottom of the hill - where there is a large gated community.

It is Primera Calle y 3 Avenida area. We felt safe while we were there, but, haven't been back for 6 months, and don't know anyone that lives in the immediate area.

I was hoping that someone could tell me about the safety in this area- if there are any concerns. Again, we speak Spanish fluently, but, we are clearly expats.

We also worry about safety as it pertains to the baby. He is the love of our life, blond hair blue eyes, but, we keep having nightmares about kidnapping.

We will be there in less than a month, so, any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

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srbscott Member

Member since 07 March 2017

srbscottMember05 April 2017 13:57:51

A couple of things.
You start with a great advantage knowing the language.
There are no promises in Life.
Don't act/behave/advertise that you are rich gringos.
Get out in the community (outside of the gates)
Enjoy where you are going, it is a lovely area.
Pay attention without being paranoid.
Explain to the children that, for awhile, you want them to always know where the other children are.
And why. (Explain YOUR fears, not theirs)
You don't have to wear the watch/necklace/bling
All in all, it's as safe an area as one can expect in Central America.
Tiene buen tiempo!