In this small but comprehensive list we’re going to let you into the secret of whereabouts you can find the new and second-hand books that could prove to be just what you need for a rainy day.
Located in the heart of Antigua’s 6’s and 7’s district on the corner of 6th Street and 7th Avenue, Antigua Books has Guatemala’s best selection of books in English as well as a respectable collection in Spanish and even a few in Mayan dialects. The store has a great selection of local and regional titles and is a perfect spot to look for local authors (and their books) both expat and Guatemalan. Don’t forget to bring the kids as they have a great selection of titles for kids of all ages in both languages. Travel guides, language workbooks, phrasebooks, maps, and everything from Dr. Seuss to Dr. Joe Dispenza, there is definitely something for everyone here. And don’t forget to say hello to their amazing blue-eyed wonderdog Azul!
Almost underneath the Santa Catalina Arch – you’ll find Nim Po’t. Apart from their gigantic space dedicated to the different types of artesanías that are produced in Guatemala, you can also buy second-hand books (in different languages and from a range of genres) at a good price. If you have the time to spare, take a good look at the wide range of books that they have on offer and take a seat in one of their enormous chairs whilst you enjoy something from their little café. You can even make an order of organic vegetables that they bring down directly from their farm at Cerro San Cristobal in San Cristobal el Alto.
Right opposite the Parque Central, inside the Casa del Conde, you’ll find a small space dedicated to books. The majority of the books that they sell are new and talk about tourist spots, traditions and Guatemalan photography and they stock an extensive collection of books on Mayan culture and from Latin-American authors. What’s another great advantage of visiting this shop? That you can grab the book you just bought and head to any of the beautiful spaces within Cafe Condesa and read it while enjoying a cup of good coffee.
Other options include El Tuerto, De Museo, Rainbow Cafe and when open Dyslexia.
