Border Crossing into Guatemala
After a lovely couple of days in San Cristobal de las Casas, a beautiful town I have been to three times now, we headed off into the clouds for the border with Guatemala. I have been a couple of times before, and loved it each time. But I have never crossed the border with a car. We had done all the necessary research into the crossing, what documents we would need, how many, where to go for each step etc., so we felt prepared for the unknown.
On the way there we were stopped by the usual police checkpoint set up before most border crossings. The officials were courteous, and asked for various documents, but as I was looking for the ones for the car the officer just said, ‘it’s taking too long” and waved us on. I think I showed the necessary confidence to assure him we had them and that was all that was needed as proof for him. And that’s been the story for Mexico as far as the police are concerned. They just can’t be bothered with the extra paperwork if they find something amiss. Good for them I say. Life is too short and it’s very hot.
Anyway, we arrived at the border. First you have to stop a few kilometres before it at the Banjercito office to export your vehicle and get the necessary documents to show to Guatemalan officials. This was a test of patience. The officials go out of their way to let you be aware that they are in control and they will get to you when they are good and ready, and only after the latest episode of their favourite soap opera has finished. Small dick syndrome, Dani calls it, and that maybe true, they like to make the most of the minuscule amount of authority their posting provides, but they got round to us, eventually. Even though there was no one else in the queue.
With all the necessary paperwork done you go a few kilometres on to the actual border. It is chaos, the road is lined with stalls and pedestrians selling all kinds of absolute non essential items, getting through it all is a challenge in a big SUV, and even more of a challenge to recognise the border station amidst the bustle. We were ushered into a parking spot in front of passport control. They fumigate your car for £1.50, stamp your passport and give you a receipt for the fumigation. Then you go another 10 meters to the vehicle import station on the same side. We had everything in order. Copies of registration, title, passport and driving license. It turned out they only wanted to see the originals and copied them themselves. It took a little while and during this they showed great interest in Dani’s UK driving license, Italian passport, and US vehicle and registration. Asking her how easy it was for her to get visas for America. And that was when we thought about how this must be an unrequited dream for these people. I, for one, felt extremely lucky to have been born where I was.
Documents, done, fumigation, done, sticker in window, done, we were ready to hit Guatemala. And the contrast is quite obvious. Things are very different here. It’s more chaotic, more hilly, more green and luscious and much more friendly. I think Daniela is going to love it. She is certainly loving the first hotel. A beautiful pool, a fantastic view, and a bar that serves you what you want when you want it. How much better could it be?
Hola Guatemala!
