First off, Xela can be cold. Rainy season lasts from May to November, and you can expect a shower most afternoons. From December to April Xela is dry. Daytime highs range from the 50s to 80s, depending on the month, and nights are usually chilly, most always dipping into the 50s and 60s.

The Mayan people of Guatemala's western highlands are modest, so dressing conservatively is respectful, especially when visiting more remote communities. Valuable jewelry may attract unwanted attention, so is best left at home.

Xela is a fairly modern and safe city, and most people dress in average, western style clothing. You will be impressed with the quality of Xela's nightlife, and wish you had brought a few nice things to wear out at night. Guys, bring jeans. In Guatemala, it is viewed as immature to wear shorts, and you will feel out of place in a bar or discoteque. A nice pair of shoes may also come in handy when you suddenly discover you were born to Salsa!

Xela has several wireless hotspots to connect a laptop, but there are also internet cafes all over town which charge 4-8Q an hour and stay open until 10pm.

Earplugs are a very good idea! They block out street dogs, cackling roosters, and whatever else might wake you if you are a light sleeper.

With these things in mind, here is a reccomended packing list for life in Xela.