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When did you open La Iguana Perdida and what inspired you to do so?

I opened La Iguana Perdida in 1995.  Lake Atitlan is a stunning place and I just happened upon it - within 24 hours of ever having been on the lake, I decided to buy the wooden houses which made up the first incarnation of La Iguana Perdida.

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What makes your business different?

I have been here for so long!!  We have definitely been a model for many other hostels/hotels/lodges in Guatemala and maybe beyond!

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What has been the most rewarding part of opening La Iguana Perdida?

I'd have to say the quality of life and raising my family here in Guatemala.

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What has been your biggest challenge and how have you overcome this?

Environmental issues: hurricanes, mudslides, rising water, algae bloom. Now we are rabid environmentalists!!

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What's next for La Iguana Perdida?

We're not too sure ourselves!

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How has Tab helped La Iguana Perdida?

Tab has enabled us to not have such large amount go through Paypal. It's been nice getting to work with a business right at the beginning. We met the Founders in March 2015 and hopefully have helped to promote them around Guatemala! 

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Why is Guatemala a great place to visit?

There's loads of variety in a small country. The pride that the locals have of their culture is fantastic and the scenery is absolutely beautiful - you should come and visit!!

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Are there any trends/changes that you've noticed in tourism?

We've noticed that there are many more hostels opening up. I'd say there a probably more party hostels than there used to be, some of which unfortunately don't necessarily respect the local culture.

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What would your advice be for anyone thinking about starting their own hostel/hotel?

If you are ever going into a partnership, make sure you plan the exit strategy before starting.  Luckily my husband and I run the place so no need for an exit strategy! It is a load of hard work but great fun.

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Are there any websites or articles that you would recommend to other new hostel/hotel owners?

We have always used volunteers even before the internet! At the moment we get volunteers from Workaway.

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Find La Iguana Perdida at https://www.facebook.com/LaIguanaPerdida.

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