Guatemala: Adventures in Nature (1st ed) [Paperback]

Richard Mahler (Author)

Book Description

Series: 1st ed | Publication Date: October 1997

From the black-sand beaches of the Pacific Coast to the peaks of 33 volcanoes, Guatemala is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. An extensive listings of lodgings, restaurants, and services offers all the information needed by experienced travelers and newcomers alike. 65 photos, 15 in color. 12 maps.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Did you know that toucans have blue feet, that manatees have whiskered noses, or that some iguanas are called "Jesus Christ lizards" because they move so quickly that they seem to run across water? This book will help you explore Guatemala, "the land of many trees," one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. In a week's time, you can climb (one of 33!) volcanoes above the clouds or commune with howler monkeys in a cloud forest, bask on black-sand beaches or explore a limestone wonder. Guatemala's natural wonders are found among the surreal magic of the ruins of the ancient Maya and the current-day cities and villages of their ancestors. Thoughtfully presented with a useful chapter on conservation and responsible tourism, this is a guide packed with practical advice.

Product Details

• Paperback: 408 pages
• Publisher: John Muir Pubns; 3rd edition (October 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1562613707
• ISBN-13: 978-1562613709
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.8 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,582,087 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Richard Mahler believes being a writer is the best job in the world. He sees it as a passport to explore new places, ideas, people, emotions, and perspectives. "I couldn't imagine doing anything else for a living," he says. For decades, Richard has used this passport to write about arts, culture, health, politics, conservation, travel, indigenous peoples, the media, and personal transformation. As a newspaper columnist, he tells stories of the interesting but little-known New Mexicans who make his state the most quirky and independent in the U.S. Richard has written thousands of articles for hundreds of print and on-line publications, in addition to being an independent radio producer and commentator. He has authored (or co-authored) eleven books, including a recipe-filled summary of Santa Fe's best restaurants, a travel guide to Palm Springs, meditations on the rewards of gardening and of aging, and a memoir about the 97 days he spent in the stillness and solitude of an alpine wilderness. When not writing, Richard is a free-lance editor, teacher of mindfulness-based stress reduction, and tour guide for visitors to historic Silver City, NM. He loves to hike in the deserts and mountains near his home atop the Continental Divide. Richard invites comments on his work via www.RichardMahler.com.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Completed Updated In 1999, June 7, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Guatemala : Adventures in Nature (Paperback)

As the author of this book, I am predictably biased in its favor. However, I feel it's important to say that I spent several months in late 1998 and early 1999 poring over every word, photo, and map to make sure that it was correct, helpful, and informative. Readers will find everything from restaurant and hotel reviews to reports on Spanish schools, craft markets, and Maya ruins. I find Guatemala a fascinating and rewarding country to visit and it remains one of the world's greatest travel bargains. However, since the Peace Accords were signed in 1996 and the guerrilla war ended, more and more people are discovering this place. Therefore, prices will only go up. I'm convinced that there is no better time to see the unspoiled treasures of Guatemala than right now, before the crowds descend. My specialties are the contemporary and ancient cultures of the Maya as well as the national parks of the country. In the latest edition of my book, I've gone to great lengths to include every possible useful tidbit of information on these subjects, from the best place to explore the rainforest to the best way to tour Tikal. As always, I am eager to receive reports from readers, who supply me with some of the best insider information available. Enjoy!

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If you love adventure, this is your book!, June 21, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (Guatemala, city) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Guatemala: Adventures in Nature (1st ed) (Paperback)

The investigation of Richard Mahler in Guatemala is above excellent, and I really love all the details of adventure in it. I recommend this book to every tourist and local people, is amazing all the beauty that we have down here. Is very complete, including hotels, restaurants, what to see, what to do in each part of the country. A list of volcanoes, rivers, caves and recommendations of fishing, cycling, kayaking, etc etc. with a list of tourist operators on each issue. Great book!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent!, January 28, 2000

By 

Ron Mader "Planeta.com Founder" (Mexico) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Guatemala : Adventures in Nature (Paperback)

(From Planeta.com Journal) - Reading Richard Mahler is like opening a letter from a well-traveled friend. This is the second edition of a regional classic. Its coverage of environmental issues and travel options is first-rate. This is a must read for any eco traveler.