Antigua, the so-called jewel of Central America, is a rustic old colonial town an hour's bus ride away from the ugliness of Guatemala City, the nation's capital.

Now a Unesco world heritage site, the city (which is small enough to walk from end to end in an hour or so) exudes charm and captivates anyone lucky enough to visit.

The main square is picturesque, complete with a fountain and horse-drawn carriages (though, like New York, these are solely for tourists), there are also churches and cathedrals scattered around.

The best way to see the city is simply to pick a direction and start walking, as things of interest are around every corner. Transport links are good to all other parts of Guatemala and beyond, and if you feel fit enough there are several excursions available to climb the local (still active) volcanoes.

Good food and drink is abundant, as are local goods such as textiles and pottery, available from the market or any number of stores and boutiques around the city.

Along with Flores, Tikal and Semuc Champey, this charming city is the highlight of any trip to Guatemala, and thoroughly recommended as a base for exploring the rest of the country.