Voy a Guatemala!

This Saturday I'm off to Guatemala for the IV International Birdwatching Encounter sponsored by the Guatemala Tourism Board. The goal of this event is to "promote Guatemalan locations that have birdwatching potential, so that Guatemala can be positioned as a worldwide birdwatching destination, generating the interest of new international markets (for example, Europe), and to favor alliances and businesses between national and international enterprises interested in this activity." In a nutshell, the event will host representatives from bird tour companies, ornithologists, writers, artists, and me in an effort to promote eco-tourism in the country. Pretty darn sweet. We will be visiting some incredible areas over 8 days including Tikal and Yaxha National Parks. One day will even be devoted to a "Birding Challenge" (think Big Day). Birding and camaraderie will be plentiful. Food will be interesting. Photos will be more than abundant. I will post extensively on my return and you will get to see the full cast of characters who attended and all the beauty of what is sure to be an exciting trip.