Walk the Walk
One of the highlights of Xela is the ease of getting around town! For shorter distances, or more leisurely schedules, you can walk pretty much anywhere within the city. Take advantage of this on those bright and sunny days. Even during the rainy season, the mornings provide a window of opportunity to explore the city and take in the sights. Finding fresh fruits and vegetables at a market is never more than a ten minute walk away, transitioning from a cafe to a restaurant, and then to the bars at night is a common practice for many of the people who call Xela home. Take care when walking around at night. Avoid walking alone or exceedingly inebriated, as incidents do occur. Xela Vida recommends staying aware of your surroundings and making sure your friends get home safely in the evenings. Additionally, if you are alone, have a lot of distance to cover, or need to walk through less populated areas, you can always take a taxi. Agree on the price before you get in. You might even become friends with the driver and then you will always have someone to call!
Hop in and hang on
Xela has a well-run public transportation system. While it may seem daunting at first, you will quickly adjust and appreciate the ease and affordability offered by the options. Of course, there is a learning curve so be patient and keep an open mind. Some of the best adventures start here! Always watch your belongings while using public transportation and stay aware of those around you! Never bring important items with you unless it is absolutely necessary and always be discreet when you do. Don’t have your new smartphone out the entire time or take your expensive camera out just to look at the pictures you have taken. Traveling light makes it much easier to go from bus to bus, fit into cramped seats, and to enjoy the ride instead of worrying. Most of the Spanish schools in the area offer small day trips during the week that utilize these transportation options and provide a guide. This is the best way to learn the system without feeling overwhelmed, especially if your Spanish still needs a lot of work!
We Recommend - Microbuses
The best option for getting around town is the fleet of micro buses (minivans) that cruise through the city on designated routes. Once in Xela, it would be tough not to see them rolling around the streets with the “ayudante” (helper) shouting out the stops the van will be making (“Parque, Parque, Parque!”). Trips should cost you 1.25Q during the day and 2Q at night, barring special circumstances such as appearing to be easily overcharged or not having exact change. Always keep some coins and small bills with you for these rides and have your money ready! Pay attention to where you need to get off and mention it to the ayudante so they will inform you. These buses can get quite crowded so prepare to be squeezed in and don’t be shy. Remember to watch your belongings! A large backpack is not an issue, but if you have a lot of luggage consider taking a taxi.
The most important landmarks and areas when riding the microbuses are Parque Central, Parque Bolivar, La Democracia and Minerva Terminal. Look for the buses shouting “Parque, Parque, parque” near the Minerva Roman Columns to make your way back to Parque Central. If you are trying to go in the opposite direction from Parque Central, then you will want to look for microbuses shouting “Terminal!” (Terminal de camionetas, where you find the chicken buses). They can be found on the backside of Parque Central, near the church.
If you are closer to Parque Bolivar, you can catch microbuses here very easily. As long as you get on the right microbus, they will bring you through La Democracia (market and shopping area) and to Minerva (“Terminal”).. You will notice the giant Roman columns when you arrive at Minerva. The chicken bus terminal is on the other side of the street with all of the market stalls. It is possible to walk through, or to head towards the zoo and take a right on the main street “Avenida Las Americas.” It takes longer to walk around but it is a lot less hectic, so that might be preferable when carrying your belongings. Definitely ask for directions when needed (in Spanish), the people are very friendly. Other stops include “Hiper Paiz” which is where the Wal-Mart, large mall and movie theater are located.
Chicken Buses
WIthin the city, chicken buses are not the best way to get around. However, they are your best bet for getting to the surrounding towns. Chicken bus fares are typically 3Q for short rides but can vary. Chicken buses are most readily found at the “Terminal de camionetas.” The Xelaju pullman buses are also here and run regular service in the direction of the Pacific Coast to Colomba. Before hopping on a chicken bus, ask the ayudante to confirm where the bus is going. The city and route information written on the front of the buses does not always match the actual destinations. The ayudante and drivers are very helpful so don’t hesitate to ask them questions. Tell them where you need to get off and they will let you know. This is a saving grace many times. When your stop is approaching, move to the front of the bus to avoid slowing things down. This goes a long way towards fitting in and using the transportation like a local, but remember to hang on to the handlebars on the roof so you don’t fall!
Taxis
Taxis can be easily found outside of the chicken bus terminal by walking down the road against the flow of buses, at the first class bus stations, and near the main parks and shopping areas around Xela. Taxis can be reached by telephone and it is possible to schedule pickups ahead of time if you have an early morning bus or other needs. Most rides within the city will cost between 20 and 40 Quetzales. Agree on the price before getting in and always use common sense. If you don’t feel comfortable getting in one taxi, just take the next one.
Taxi Blanco y Azul
(502) 7763-2285
UniTax
(502) 5586-9729
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