Earthquake

Xela had an earthquake two days antes. I was laying in bed, and all of a sudden, the ceiling started to awaken. This went on for about 10 seconds, and then my bed began to shake and the windows rumble. The owners didn`t seem to react, and there was nothing on the news. So, not quite sure what happened, I threw on a pair of pantalones, placed my sandals in front of the door and went back to bed.

The next day, I asked a few people if they had felt anything the night before, and they said ¨si... there was a 4.0 earthquake¨.

Apparently, earthquakes are a regular occurrence for Xela, and the locals think nothing of them. They also say that after an earthquake, the following days rain is much heavier, which indeed, it was!

In Search of a Grande Escoba (Big broom)

While helping the organization Xela Smiles, I noticed something that would be quite useful, a big push broom. After the party, it took the group 30 minutes -using small hand brooms- to clean everything from the floors. Thinking it would be a nice gesture, I`ve decided to buy them a big push broom. Though, surprisingly, the gesture is much more complicated then I anticipated. I`ve visited multiple stores, and none have the broom! Who would have guessed an item so common in the states would be impossible to find in Guatemala... Well, the hunt shall continue. I do not meet defeat with a smile.

Perspective, in Perspective.

While at a club called La Purranda, I and a friend asked for a Litro of Gallo. The owner of the establishment, who we`ve gotten to know over the last couple weeks, apologized but said they were out of Litros. Giving him a hard time, we started to joke with him and asked what type of place he was running. He then said that it was because his driver hand`t made this weeks run. We then responded that that wasn`t a good excuse. And asked what was up with the driver. His response ¨the driver was shot and killed¨. The conversations mood quickly dropped to a sobering state. It turned out, that while on one of his routes, a group of armed gun men killed him and, I think, the guard that always accompanys the delivery of beverages.

····Gallo drivers, and for that matter, many of the drivers around here, collect rather large sums of money when making deliveries. And, because of this, they are prime targets by criminals.····

As we left the bar, the owner again apologized for the lack of Litros. We turned around, told him not to worry about it and voiced our sympathy for what happened. A momment in time that makes you appreciate the little things and also opens your eyes to the broader picture.

The Living Jungle Gym

There is a Dutch organization in Xela, something like ¨Xela Smiles¨. The program is located in a town about 20 minutes from the city Center. The focus, give kids an area where they can go after school, so they can act and be treated like kids. Many of the parents work long hours, and in turn, have nowhere to place their children. Ultimately, some of the children are left without adult supervision, and absolutely no guidance after school.

Every month, the organization throws a huge birthday bash for children who`s birthdays are of that month. This month -not sure about other months- they were absent guys to help out. So I and a friend named Ryan acted as play toys. Needless to say, the children where extremely pleased to have a guy presence, and wouldn´t let go of me. Really makes you appreciate simpler things and how just the interaction an involvement of the human touch, creates so much happiness within others; especially children. I`m going to try and help them again sometime this week.

The following are a set of picture of the event- some I wanted and others, the children asked me to take. Seeing your image displayed on paper, or in this case the screen of a camera, is quite magical for many who have never seen their image before... that is, except for looking in the mirror.

I was just corrected by a nice person from Mexico

Puta does not mean ¨bitch¨, it means ¨whore¨. Though, odly, some of the people here in Guatemala have told me the opposite. I guess, depending on where you are, and who you speak with, the word has a slightly different translation.

Anyway, thanks for the correction.

I need a break from writing... So, I`v decided to come and type. Part 9

The dogs name was ´Puta´- in Spanish, the word means `bitch`. When Barbara and I returned downstairs, a group of people had huddled around MR. B and his dog. Peeking my head out the door, the sight was of an ignorant owner and a dog, not more then 2, that was loving the attention.

Crouched in a police dog trainer pose, MR. B extended his arm, and would call upon Puta to attack. With pleasure, Putas teeth would latch onto MR. B and Mr. B would proceed to spin Puta around similar to when someone, clean of drugs, swings a child around. Puta, enjoying every moment of the experience would clench her teeth tighter and tighter with every rotation, and MR. B, would scream louder and louder, saying ¨ai Puta! ouch! let go¨ Puta, after several times of hearing this command, would let go of MR. B´s arm. Then, after a couple sips of his drink, MR. B would continue the same routine over and over again. All the while, the people surrounding him getting a good chuckle out of the situation. What am I still doing her. Alright, it`s time to get out. I have to get up early in the morning, and I`ve had just about enough of this freak fest!

It´s currently raining, so here is part 8

I really need to get home. I´m not quite sure how much more of this I want to subject myself to. Though, Barbara seems to be pleased I´m here. Obviously, nothing going to happen... Hmm, not sure I want to piss off Mr. B too much more. I can see it know, tomorrow or the next day, I´m walking alone at night and WHAM, I get jumped from behind. All because of the jealous boyfriend who doesn`t even realize I`m not interested in his ¨Whatever you want to call it¨ relationship. A friend of Barbara´s approaches, she is in another type of spastic frenzy- constantly punching the air as she approaches. She doesn´t acknowledge me, but instead goes straight towards Barbara. ¨Hola, Amiga¨ she says as she extends a hand and grabs Barbara´s; still punching with the other. ¨Como Esta Chica?¨ she asked while still freneticly punching the air. ¨Vamos y Bailar (Come and dance)¨ Barbara, not feeling the music (I´m not sure anyone would have been able to feel this type of music unless, high) said no. ¨you Cansado, y no me gusto bailar para la musica (I´m tired, and I don´t like to dance to this type of music)¨ Barbara says. Then why the heck are we here!!!!! I ask myself. The spastic woman, with a disappointed face but continued punch, headed back on the dance floor, all the while never noticing me... the guy standing right beside Barbara.

¨Barbara, let´s get out of here...No me gusto la musica¨ I said. ¨No, mi amigos es aqui¨ She said. Some amigos! ¨¿Te gusta la musica?¨ I asked. ¨No¨ she responded I`ve really had just about enough of this evening, if we don`t at least head downstairs, then I`m definitely getting out of here! ¨bueno, vamos abajo (well then, let`s go downstairs)¨ She seemed amenable to this, and the two of us headed downstairs.

I Moved

Yes, I am now at a new place of residency. The place is much closer to the center of the city. And, is much more spacious. I am, however, paying a bit more- 280q for the month more. But, it`s definitely worth the price.

While leaving Casa Argentina, the woman asked where I was going. I felt I couldn´t tell here it`s becasue of her idiotic policies of leaving people in the street to be left as dog food (they seem to frown a bit about late night evenings). So, I told here I was traveling somewhere.

As a side note. I returned hoem late lastnight, to again a locked door and a delay in entrance. Fortunately, two others also has just arrived, and new the trick to waking them up. BANG, BANG hard on the window to their bedroom.

I know I`m opening myself up here...

So, I purchased a cell phone today. For those interested in the number, e-mail me. Not quite sure how much text messages are, but it`s a prepaid phone, so it`s not like I`ll wake-up one morning with a massive phone bill (you can text me from www.sagastume.com... obviously, you`ll first need my number). Anyway, I`ve decided to stay here for a couple more weeks and people were starting to give me a hard time about not having a phone, especially since it`s only about $32 including 100q worth of minutes.

And then, it happened again

I just got done with a meal. The cost, 21q. I gave the woman 25q. She didn´t have 4q change. So, she gave me 5q back, and said I could just return mañana.

I`m moving

Last night, I returned home around 1:00 in the morning. As usual, they had added an additional pad lock to the door. So, when I tried opening the front door with my key, I was greeted with a clang. I then proceeded to ring the doorbell, so they´d let me in. Minute upon minute and ring upon ring. Nothing, finally, after standing in the deserted street for about 30 minutes, someone unlocked the door and greeted me with ¨Passe Adelante¨. Yeah, I`ll Passe Adelante you. Didn´t you hear the door bell! ¨Hola, Gracias¨ I said in return.

Anyway, in the next couple days, I`m going to search for a new place. It is a shame, as I like the place I`m staying, but this door lock thing after 12:00am is really begining to annoy me.

A couple more photos

These are two shots of Son and I. As we walked in an endless search for the correct ride to San Pedro la Laguna.






This is of a Shoe Shine boy and an on looker, as a man got his shoes shined.

Cambio

Well, it happened again. This morning, after breakfast, I handed the woman 20q. And in an apologetic voice she responded with ¨No Tengo cambio¨. So, I once again have credit at the breakfast place that I frequent every morning. Though, this time it´s only 5q.

Story, part 7

How did I get HERE, again! Why am I HERE? What is HERE? Why is HERE, HERE?! OK, people, don´t you understand, this isn´t quite enjoyable. I don´t think I´m going to go back in. No, really. Arin, just walk away. Come one, you can do it, don´t go back into that door. Just DONT! The Argentine puts her hand in my direction. Arin, don´t take her hand, just don´t! I place my hand onto the Argentines, and she and I re-enter the Reefer, with Barabara close behind.

Bam, Badam, Bam, Bam, Bam, Bam, Do, DO DODODODODODODODODODODO. The music blared at an almost intolerable level, the dancers had now increased, and my annoyance level would probably have been through the roof, though, the bizarre bacteria that was growing on the ceiling kept it just below height. Why, oh why did I return- oh, great, it´s Mr. B. ¨Hola, como estas!¨ I said in a perky, yet obviously irritated voice. ¨Hey man, you really need to get on this floor¨ He replied with eyes in a constant blink and head twitching. Uh, I try to keep my public humiliation at a minimum. But thanks. ¨Thanks for the offer, but Yo Soy Cansado¨ After hearing my response, Mr. B immediately headed back to the dance floor for some more spastic dance. Why did I return, why did I return... Argentine spots an individual who she knows and walks away. Barbara and I are now just standing there. The awkwardness, in my opinion, feels like two strangers who are going up 300 flights in an elevator. The two of you feel a need to break the silence, but at the same time, you´re content to just keep quiet.

Another, I Guess you Could Call Reflective

OK, so two of these type of things within the last two days. You´re probably saying, ¨Arin, you sure are getting deep! Maybe it´s time you return to the states???¿¿¿¨ I actually wrote this several days ago. There is a woman, who, for the last week, continues walking by and asking me for money. So, finally after around the 10th time of her asking, she inspired me to write a short poem.

With child in tow
In a cloth tied taught
She walks around, in a drifters cause.
Hoping those who see, will give-
Yet give, they do not.
The world seems filled with many sads
To just open your eyes-
they begin to become apparent
Though, help seems blind to the cause.
Absent of the helping hand, or just absent of the hand-
People walk past in a hapless trance.
Unconcerned with their life that's not
They just, continue to walk.


Now, I bet you´re wondering which side of the helping hand I was on. I guess you´ll just have to keep wondering.

Phone Call

Phone call

I just made a phone call to the states. It cost the same amount as my breakfast the other day, or, having my laundry washed and folded. Although, to put things in a more broadly defined context, the phone call lasted 14 minutes, and both my breakfast and laundry were only $1.30 a piece.

I also just returned from getting a hair cut. Cost 20q, with a 5q tip. Remember, the exchange rate is about 7.5q to the dollar, so the overall cost was about $3.30 US.

Reflective

I walk, because I feel like walking
I run, because I feel like running
I hike, because I feel like hiking
I lift heavy items, because I feel like building muscle
I have pets, because I want the company
I go out to eat, because I´m hungry
I plan trips on the weekends, because I want to relax.
I, am from the United States. And, though more and more peoples lives are loosing these privileges, the majority still have the options.


I walk, because I have to walk
I run, because I have to run
I hike, because I have to hike
I lift heavy items, because I have no other alternative then to carry heavy loads
I have pets... well, actually, my life can´t afford the luxury of another mouth to feed
I go out to eat only on very special occasions, and normally this is to a family or friends home
I plan trips on the weekend, so that I can travel to my job.
I, am from Guatemala. And, though more and more peoples lives are gaining in privilege, it´s a very very slow climb.


I know, it´s kind of a basic idea, but it gets the point across. Any other thoughts of places and examples of lives are welcome.

Money

Now that I have some, I´m going to make an observation. Though prior to the point, I want to preface the thought. Seven point 5 (7.50) Quetzales is worth about $1 American. The sum of a dollar in the states doesn´t buy much; and actually, most items cost slightly to well over the $1 mark. In particular, a basic package of mints is roughly around $1.20. So, as a shopper, the $5, $10, and $20 bills are quite common. And are easy forms of monetary tender to barter with. Occasionally, one does get into trouble when going to a convenience store and attempting to purchase something with a $50 or $100 bill, but not that often.

(I want you to think back for a moment, when the last time you experienced problems purchasing something and a vendor in the states did not have appropriate change. I personally can´t. But, I know there have definitely been times.)

Money here is really confusing. Throughout the last couple weeks, and actually, more broadly, throughout the total time spent in Gaut, I continue hearing the words ¨¿Tu Tienes poco combio?¨ (Do you have smaller change?). This was reasonable at the beginning of the trip, because the only thing ATM´s spit out are 100q bills (if I request withdrawal of 1000q I´ll receive 10 100q bills). As you can imagine, the lack of smaller bills is quite annoying and normally forces you to enter the bank -after withdrawing money from the ATM- so you can get change. Although, this doesn´t always prove wise, as at any particular time of day, you´re opt to find a line stretching across the block to enter a bank!

OK, now that you have a full background concerning cambio, I´ll get to my point. No one here has change! I just returned from a late breakfast. My bill was 15q. I gave the woman 50q and immediately received an agitated glare and the words ¨¿Tu Tienes poco combio?¨. I told her sorry but no. I now need to go back, in about 20 minutes from now and retireve my change- Because she didn´t have any to offer.

The following are past experiences concerning the same situation.

- After finishing breakfast at a restaurant called Nicks, in San Pedro La Laguna, I handed the waiter exact change for the meal. Though, the amount I gave him didn´t include propina. So, after paying, I asked if he had combio para diez q. He immediately replied with no. So, I didn´t leave him a tip.

- At an Internet cafe, after spending 5q worth of time, I handed the lady 20q. She didn´t have change and asked that I return mas tarde to pay. I did.

- When picking up my laundry. I received the bill for 28q. I handed the guy a 50q. He didn´t have change, and asked if I could return mas Tarde.

- A breakfast place I regularly frequent on the weekdays. All I had was 50q to pay for the 15q breakfast. She didn´t have change. So, for the last couple days I´ve been eating off the credit of my 50q.

Well the list could go on... and on... and on. But, I will stop, as I think you get my point.

Where are the photos? Where are the photos?

Yes, that`s the question I continue to ask myself. Where are the photos????? Well, here they finally are! After getting sick of every Internet cafe telling me ¨No tengo tarjeta reader¨ I finally broke down and purchased one. And, what does everyone get because of my out of pocket expense... Photos!

On the road to Fuentes and the town of Zunil

Quick pit stop at a gass station. Notice what´s in the security of the gas stations hands!


City of Zunil

On the road retunring from the hot springs

Views

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose By any other word would smell as sweet."



A view from our $8 private room in San Pedro La Laguna.
A view from El Balcon nuestras habitacion.

Two Cool Belgiums

I hung out with the two of these great people for several nights in San Pedro la Laguna.

Transportation methods in Guat

This was a n over packed truck that was about to attempt an accent up the steep roads of Lago Atitlan.

The most packed Chicken bus I`ve ever had the uncomfortable privilege riding in. Plumes of exhaust filled the rear of the bus as Son and I stood for about an hour. All the while enduring speeds that any sane person would think crazy.

Story, Part 6

We sat chatting, on a cement bench, under the siding of Casa Verde. To be honest, I don´t truly recall what we spoke of. I think it consisted about her ¨novios¨ jealousy. And also, about how I was ready to leave the place. At some point during the conversation, I got up and went back to the Reefer, to go to the bathroom. I wasn´t in the restroom more then 2 minutes, although, when I returned, the EX or the Current (I´m just really confused) was cuddling Barbara and attempting to kiss her. Barbara kept moving her head to avoid contact. And, when I entered the scene, the guy backed off a bit but still kept his arm over her´s (to be honest, at this point the whole thing was so ridiculous, I really didn´t care what happened to who, just as long as Clyde stayed away from me.) Mr. B (who I will now refer to the current, EX, on again off again, or whatever he was) stayed with us for about 5 minutes and then got up, shook my hand in a sportsman like shake, and with a minor spasm to his walk, headed back to the Reefer.

Barbara apologized about the situation and then again repeated he was jealous of us. ¨What us are you referring to. If you mean us in the literal, then I understand, if you mean us as in ¨Date¨ then you´re way off. I kind of shook my head and said ¨let´s go to some other bar.¨ She agreed and we were on our way.

Pleased we were making progress away from the Reefer, I some how missed the fact that someone else joined our walk. It was an Argentine lady, who knew Barbara. The lady was about 50 and was in a very intense discussion with her. After a period of chatting, Barbara turned to me and said the woman thought I was really good looking. The Argentinian, then looked over at me, and kept laying on how gorgeous I was and how she loved my height. At some point during the conversation, Barbara mentioned we were going to another bar and asked the lady if she´d like to join. The woman chimed up and said, ¨I have a better idea, let´s go back to my place.¨ Believing any place was better then the Reefer, I agreed and we started heading, to what I thought, was her place.

On the walk over, Argentina, asked that we make a quick stop at the Tienda. We did, and she went to the front and handed over a bottle. It was a bottle of some type of Alcohol, almost completely empty. She asked that they refill the jar, which they promptly did, gave her back the bottle, charged her a couple Q, and we were all back in the street in no time. Except, walking in the same direction of where we just left, the Reefer.

I´m not quite sure how it happened, but within minutes, we were re-entering the place that I thought I´d soon be able to wipe from my immediate memory.

Story, Part 5

¨¿Why is he jelous?...Well...¨ she said, ¨He is -or was- my quote un quote `boyfriend`¨. ¨I see... huh...¨ I responded. ¨Yeah, he doesn´t like seeing me with another guy¨ Well, obviously not! But who said this was that type of evening??? After the people that I see you associating with, I don´t think I want anything to do with that type of situation. ¨huh, well, he´ll just have to deal with it. Arin, don´t be stupid, you might get yourself into a situation you don´t want. Who knows where his mind currently is... ¨Barbara, let´s go outside, or at least downstairs for a bit.¨

Barbara and I then proceeded to walk down the steps and into the grand outdoors, though prior to our departure, she went to use the bathroom, yet again. This time I decided to hang out in the doorway. As I waited, this guy who looked part surfer dude part guy from the Discovery Channel ¨Bounty Hunter¨, walked up beside me and started to touch my arm. This went on for about 10 seconds. I then spoke up ¨Hola¨, in a deep feministic voice he returned with ¨Hoooollllaaa¨. ¨¿Como te llamas?¨ was my next question ¨Me llamo (I actually don´t remember his name. For now, let´s call him Clyde) Clyde¨ he then went on with touching my arm. Tired of the situation, I moved my arm to politely shake his hand. This seemed to be a good idea. That is, until he then wouldn´t let go of my hand. Fortunately, Barbara returned from the bathroom just as I was on a half minute of intent hand shake.

Rehash of Information From Last Year

Thought this might be interesting. I posted it last year, but thought it would be good to post again.

These are all minimum wage figures- It´s also possible they´ve changed slighly from last year... But I doubt it.

Guatemala (44 hour work week that includes working Saturday):
- Workers in Agriculture receive $5.06 per day
- Workers in non-agricultural jobs receive 5.19 per day

Honduras (8 hours per weekday and 4 hours on Saturday, for a total of 44 hours):
- Workers receive $4.23 per day. An increase of $0.45 as of April 2004

El Salvador (44 hour work week):
- Workers in the commerce and services sector receive a minimum daily wage of US$5.28
- Workers in industry receive US$5.16 per day
- Workers in the maquila or textile sectors receive US$5.04 per day
- Farm workers receive US$2.47 per day
There have been no mandated wage increases since 2003, but it is expected that the government will revise the minimum wage in 2006 (it is customary to review it every three years).

Panama (48 hour work week):
In Panama, prices vary by region, but the highest minimum wages are...
- Workers in the Construction sector at 13.25 per day
- Workers in the Telecommunications sector at 13.20 per day
I wasn't able to collect data for agriculture, but I'm sure it is much lower. I did learn, however, that coffee pickers -efficient pickers- can receive about $20 a day by picking coffee- keep in mind that this is seasonal work.

Final Set of Bank E-mails I Plan to Post

Sylvie sent this message to me yesterday (not sure what happened to Edwards e-mail...:

Dear Arin,

I just checked your account and noticed the funds were put back into your account. I know you went trough a difficult week, but I hope now you will be able to enjoy the the remainder of your stay in Guatemala.

Best regards,

Sylvie

__________
My response to Sylvie, today:


Sylvie,

Thanks so much for the follow-up. I went to the ATM yesterday... And, now have money again. I realize that all of you went out of your way to assist me in my moment of poverty, and appreciate all the help and concern.

Thanks so much for following through and the expedited assistance,

A happy man who once again has money to spend (Arin)

Story, Part 4

Upstairs proved a true sight. Between the scarred cement posts; the cushions that looked to be taken straight from a water soaked dumpster; the ceiling tatooed by years of smoke -or how people where smoking that night, months; and hyped DJ that overtook only a small section of floor, were crowds of people. All seemed to be attempting their own interpretations of hyper dance. There were people who hinted a vague familiarity to Tae-Boe, others who´s enthusiastic arm swinging brought back memories of the last Traffic Police officer I saw in LA, as they attempted to direct vehicles, and others, who seemed to act in a frenetic panic as they tried to stomp on anything that looked slightly suspicious (aka, dirt on the floor).

Barbara and I headed to, what people there called ¨the bar¨. Though, I´d describe it more as ¨A big table, with two bottles of alcohol and a tiny refrigerator that contained Ice.¨. As we ordered a drink, a friend of hers from across the table smiled and said hello. Though his name I do not remember, his actions were unforgettable. In a jittery manner (eyes twitching, arms vellicating, and stomach spasming) he graciously said ¨hello¨. ¨where are you from?¨ he asked as his head began vibrating to the music. ¨Estados Unidos¨ was my reply. ¨Ah, I lived there for 4 months. In Venice beach. My home was my old 1980 sedan. It was good times.¨ Now, obviously, I really should be the last one to judge a person who says they´ve lived in a car, especially considering I just returned from a trip doing the same thing. But, I believe there are different levels of ¨living¨ and this individual didn´t strike me as one who ¨lived¨ but instead truly ¨lived¨ (similar to a bum who ¨lives¨ outside) in his car. Our conversation lasted about 1 more minute, and then in a jolting fashion, he jumped the ¨bar¨ and went onto the dance floor and started what some would call the ¨Elaine Spasm Dance¨ (for those of you who watch Seinfeld).

Overwhelmed with the environment, my mind started shutting down. My new found ability to communicate in Spanish was lost, and my only hope was that Barbara would do all the talking and I could just nod or say ¨Si¨, ¨Por Que?¨, or ¨No?!¨. After several minutes of silence, Barbara leaned over and said ¨El esta jealous¨. Completely confused with the statement, I asked her what she meant.

Yo Tengo Dinero

I have money agian! There are still a few things I´ll have to take care of with my account (like penalties for a couple bounced checks), but I have money again!

Another life experience I can check off the list of things I needed to experience. :)

We Lost Power Last Night

While sitting at a cafe with some Americans, and one Swede, the power all throughout Xela went out. I wouldn´t have thought much about the situation, except the owners of the cafe immediately locked all doors and boarded all windows. We stayed for probably five more minutes, talking via a foe kerosene light (battery powered light that looked like a kerosene lamp). When we entered the street, the only sights visible were those that ran on backup power; and they were limited. Uninterested in getting mugged on the 10 minute return to the Hotel, I hailed a Taxi. When we arrived back at the hotel and attempted our key in the door, we were greeted by an interesting surprise. They had added additional locking precautions since the power outage. It took them about 5 minutes to let us in, but we finally entered our compound, safe from the lurking dangers outside.

Agitation

My bank is beginning to agitate me, though, just a bit. The below is an e-mail I received yesterday morning.

________
Hello Arin,

I got your faxes. Thank you for your speediness in getting them to us. The
faxed letter that you signed should be fine.

I will take the documentation to my managers, and write you again as soon as
possible!

Sincerely,

Edward
_______

And then, my response:

______________
Great- Thanks!

Looking forward to having money in my account once more,

Arin
___________


You´d think, by now, I´d have received a response saying something like ¨You have money!¨, or, I log into my account and I´d say to myself, ¨I finally have money¨. But, neither have happened. And I´m getting tired of checking my e-mail in case and not seeing a message from them. If nothing happens by 2:00 Guatemala time, I´m going to call them and begin turning nasty... Or, at least a little more forceful.

I guess the only positive thing about this is that I´m updating my blog much more, since I´m constantly checking my mail.

E-mail from Son

yo

on the way to guatemala city my bus got a flat tire and out me behind 2
hours. so i am currently writing to you in antigua. i´m staying at hotel los
encuentros and have scheduled a ride to the airport leaving at 11am.
hopefully there won´t be anymore mix up. anyway, my flight info is still the
same just that i will be coming in on august the 8th and not the 7th. vinh,
if you can pick me up that would be great.

chau

son

Long Time Coming... But Here is Part 3

After several hours of discussion, all of which in forms of gestures, botched Spanish, some English and more bad Spanish, we opted to head to a club I will refer to as ¨The Reefer¨.

The decision started innocently enough. We´d spent quite a bit of time at El Barrio and were ready for a change. While walking to the club, it seemed that on each corner, sat or stood, mindless drifters in a state of total confusion. Barbara and I joked of each of the individuals states. And I, personally humored by the sight of each of the peoples drug induced states, thought that would be the only time on this trip I´d see such sights.

Our entrance into the club was interrupted by Barbara's need for the bathroom. As the club was small, I opted to wait in the hallway until she was through in the Bano. Her minute in the restroom, felt more like a decade of waiting. While patiently awaiting her return, at least three people walked past me to access the upstairs. They would then re-emerge in state of disarray and then several seconds later, repeat the same actions all over again- This probably happened about 4 times before Barbara re-entered the scene. Smiling and oblivious of the situation -or at least ignorantly assuming she oblivious- she motioned to the steps and we started up the dark path to a scene that would compare to that of a 70´s late night trippin bash.

Gone

Today, my crutch; my only sense of sanity; my only outlet to vent of the annoying ¨j¨ people are gone! Gone! I´m all alone, in a foreign country, with no money, and no language skills. AHHHH.

OK, so I´m playing with this update. Son left today. He borded a 8:00am bus to Guatemala City. He´ll then need to catch a taxi to the airport, and will hopefully manage to make his 2:20pm flight. As long as he doesn´t hit traffic along the way, he should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to his departure.

My money situation should be cleared today. I went to the police station yesterday, and filed -hopefully- the necessary report (innocent, and stupidly, I forgot to bring my spanish dictionary. Tough, it would have been convenient to have, I managed to explain -for the most part- the situation. The officer was very friendly, and once I was able to sit and see someone, the process for filing the report was quite seamless- The only aspect I wasn´t fully comfortable with, was telling him how much I lost; and though it wasn´t much in US standards, the amount I lost would be considered a small fortune to a Guatemalan.)... At this point, it should be as easy as the bank looking over all the $&/··& I faxed them and crediting my account.

What a Great Evening

The 5 of us spent the evening in a place called Fuentes Gorginas last night. The area is known for their natural hotsprings. It was quite lovely; and we had the eveing to ourselves. At around 12 midnight, all the lights around the place turned off. And, there we were, surrounded by total darkness; the only company, our voices and the sounds of the deep jungle.

When we arrived at the spring, I decided it would be a good idea to head back into town and get some grocieries. This turned to being an innocently indiotic idea. By the time I and a guy named Andrew arrived into a town with food, everything was just about closed and it was incredibly dark. Buses and Taxis don´t frequent the hot spring, especially at night, and after our purchase of sundries, I ended up having to hail a truck off the street and pay him to take the two of us back to the spring.

The whole experience was splendid and on the return trip to the spring, we were presented with a spectacular view of the valley with the sun setting in the way off distance. We also helped out a local family (the 50q we paid for the ride is 5q more then the average Guatemalan makes in a day).

It looks as though I will stay here (Xela) for about a week. I´ll then head... well, I´m not quite sure.

Another E-mail to the Bank

Hi All,

I just returned to Xela, and dropped by the Spanish School. And, they had my card! Thank you so much for the prompt turn-around.

I´m not sure if you´ve yet seen my previous e-mail, but I tried going to the police station in San Pedro, but the office was closed. As I mentioned earlier, I´m currently in Xela, and will visit the police office tomorrow (Sunday). I do hope that once you´ve received all necessary information, that the process for placing money into my account will be expedited. In either case, I would at least appreciate you adding $100 - $200 into my account on Monday- Obviously, if I´d known about the necessity for the police report earlier, I would have faxed the information when I faxed and e-mailed everything else.

Once again, thanks so much for the service,

Arin

Typos

For some reason, the computer generates typos... As you might have noticed some of the e-mails I`ve cut and pasted are missing spaces... Not sure why. OK, I really have to get going.

Partial Bone Head!

So, over the last couple days, I`ve sent several e-mails to edward letting him know that I`d faxed the letter... The followoing is a cronological set of events.

8-2-06

Hi Edward,Just wanted to let you know I faxed the information several hours ago.Thanks so much for the great assistance,

8-3-06

Hi Edward,

Have you sent the card yet? Do you know when I might expect delivery;when I will have funds returned to my account? The rest of this week,I should be fine. But, by next week, I´m really going to need to havesome type of available funds.

Thanks much for all the help,
Arin

8-3-06
Hi Sylvie,
I don´t mean to be a pest, but I sent an e-mail to Edward yesterdayand today. The message was an FYI that I´d faxed the informationregarding my account. I haven´t received a response that he has infact received everything necessary, and I would just like to verifythat I´ve completed everything that I must do on this side. As eachdays passes, you can imagine, I grow a little more anxious.

Thanks for the assistance,

Arin

8-3-06

Hello Arin,

I apologize, I was under the understanding that Edward was helping you. Hetold me that the card was Fed-exed yesterday on 8/02/06, but it could be afew days to be delivered in Guatamala. I was also told by someone in Card Services that the provisional credit will be posted to your account by thisaftternoon. Hopefully you are doing okay until you receive the card, I understand the situation you are in, but please do not hesitate to contact me if you haveany concerns or questions,

Sincerely,

Sylvie

8-3-06
Hi Arin,

The card was shipped yesterday, so you should have it in 1-6 days.I spoke with my manager and he says we need you to verify which transactionsyou did exactly and you also need to fill out a police report, before anyprovisional credit can be given. In other words we need a signed letter anda police report faxed to us before we can put any funds into your account.We need an exact amount in order to process any disputes and to credit youraccount. You can send the fax to my attention at ···········.

As for the withdrawal on July 23rd, there are actually 5 withdrawals on thatdate. however, all of them posted on the 24th because the 23rd was aSunday. Do you remember about how much you took out before leaving for SanPedro?

Sincerely,
Edward


8-4-06 (If I were to write the date like a Central American, if would be my Birthday!!!! 4-8-06)

Hi Edward,

Thanks for getting the card out so quickly.

·····quick update so that the below makes sense. I was in Xela, but had to return to San Pedro 2 dyas ago to meet friends. All of us will be heading back to Xela today···

As for the police report, I am not going to be able to have one filed until I return to Xela. I just walked a mountain to file the report in San Pedro, but the station won`t re-open until 2:00, at which point I`ll be on a bus to Xela. So, I won´t have anything for you until Monday.

As per the withdrawals, judging that some withdrawals didn´t register until the next day, I must have withdrawn the amount for 106.00 from CREDOMATIC 0064 GT (7-24-06). All prior transactions were done by me, anything post, was not.

What do you mean by a signed letter? Do you need me to print out the e-mail that I sent that explained what happened and sign it?

Thanks,

Arin

The Southerners

Son and I returned to San Pedro de Laguna yesterday. We met-up with three of his old school buddies; all sweet people. I´m not sure how long we will stay here, possible another day possible a couple days. At least by Monday of next week, I will be returning to Xela to pick-up my new ATM card...

I am broke, but will hopefully have money soon

Dear Arin,

According to our card issuer If we Fed Ex the card, it can take 2-7 days forthe card to reach you, due to customs. Are you going to be staying at yournext destination for that period of time?Also, we will need a signed fax of where to ship this card.

Sincerely,

____________

Hi Edward,

Xela, where I currently am, is probably the best place to send the card. I¨ll need to find a fax, but in the meantime, the address here is:
Eureka Spanish School
CO Arin Gilbert
12 Avenida 3-35 Zona 1 Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, C.A

I¨ll hopefully have a signed fax to you within the hour- should I usethe fax number below?

Thanks so much for the speed of this issue!

________________


Yes, send the fax to my attention at ..........

Thank you.

I´m broke... but hopefully not for long

Ahh, you got to love small banks. After learning of my situation. I called the Harvard Credit Union. Almost everyone there knows me. I made it a point to go in and just say hi once in awhile; and mostley because I like the people. Anway, after chatting with the bank, I received these e-mails. The last is the response I mailed them.
______
Arin,

As you can see by the letter below, they do need a letter from you first, explaining the situation. Also, please write in hte letter to change your adress, so we can Fed-Ex you a new card ( we do need your signature) , and when you come back to cambridge, you just need to change your adress back. So as soon as whe have the letters from you , they will give you the provisional credit. Please contact me at ............, or by email, if you have any further questions,

Sincerely,

Sylvie
________________

Hi Sylvie,
We need an email/ letter from the member detailing the situation (amounts, dates, etc). We also need him to fax us the address where to send a new card. For his security and ours, the old card has been stopped. We will give the Provisional Credit before the 10 business days pass, but we need the letter first. We also need to know how long he will be in Guatemala, so that we can flag his new card. We will have the new card Fed-Ex'd to him.

Thanks,
Edward
______

Dear all,

Thank you for your speedy action to this matter. As you can imagine,
being stuck in a developing world with limited to no funds isn´t
exactly a situation one desires. To summarize the situation:

I arrived into Antigua, Guatemala on the 18th of July. Immediately
upon arrival, I visited the ATM and withdrew $105.96 (19th of July).
I then made another withdrawal of $92.75 (22th of July). I though I
had made one more withdrawal prior to leaving Antigua, it would have
been on Sunday, the 23rd, but I do not see any transactions that day.
On the 23rd of July, I headed with a friend to San Pedro de Laguna.
It wasn´t until several days of being in San Pedro that I decided to
try and withdraw money. San Pedro is quite a small town, and only had
one ATM; when I tried retrieving money, the machine denied my card-
This happens once in a while, so I didn´t think much of the situation,
and just borrowed some money from a friend. Several days later, we
arrived into the second largest city in Guatemala, Quetzaltenango
(Xela for short).

It was in Xela that I realized there was a problem. Yesterday (July
31st) he and I walked all over the city searching for an ATM that
would accept my card. After about 2 hours of unsuccessful searching,
I started becoming suspicious that it may not in fact be my card, but
could possibly be my account. It was then that I went to an Internet
cafe and was presented by the unpleasant surprise that my account was
at a negative cash balance.

At no point during my trip have I had my card out of my sight; As I
write this, it is in my pocket- though, now obviously worthless. I
also only used the card a two, possibly three times. And each
withdrawal was no more then $105.

This essentially sums up the last couple days. Currently, I am
running off of reserve dollars that I, fortunately, brought with me in
case of emergencies. My concern is that this will not last long
(additionally, I plan to be in Central America for another 1 month - 2
months). I hope you appreciate the urgency of the situation, as I
believe you do, and I thank you for your expedient resolution to my
situation.

I also want to extend a great ¨Thank You¨ for sending out my card
Fed´EX. Do you know when you will do this? As I mentioned, I am
currently in Xela. I was planning to leave this city in 2 days. But,
if you plan to send the card within the next couple days, I will delay
my departure from Xela. Once I figure out when the card will be sent,
I will e-mail -and I guess also fax my signature- with an address that
you can mail the card.

Thank you once again...

The poor traveler in Guatemala (Arin)