The currency in Guatemala is the Quetzal – colloquially referred to as “Q”. Historicall it has traded between 7 and 8 to the USD, but from 2008 to 2009 the Quetzal has lost value quite significantly. Now Guatemala is a bit of a bargain for a fishing trip (at least once you get there !)
Salaries in Guatemala are low compared to US or European standards, to give you an idea (and perhaps to help gauge the “value” of a tip :
Unskilled day labor – you may see people picking fruit or cutting grass with a machete in the central reservation for example : $8-10 per day
Moderate skilled office or shop worker : $350/month
Skilled but not professional (may speak English for example) : $500/month
“Professional” (accountant, bank sub-manager, store manager) : $1000/month
Of course, just like anywhere, there are a small percentage of folks (mainly in the city) that earn a substantial amount of money, but for the most part, compensation is relatively low – and so a tip (or “propina”) can be very meaningful.
Willing to combine & share a trip?
High Quality fishing gear designed specifically for Guatemala. Guide fishing hats, Columbia "Bonehead" shirts, t-shirts, flies and much much more.
Ideal to stock up for your fishing trip to Guatemala or to bring as gifts (or prizes !) for the rest of the team !
We have a wide selection of fishing gear with and without logos and sailfish graphics.
