Guatemala is beautiful, with a rich culture, history, and nature. It is also an excellent destination for travelers who enjoy drinking and having fun. Whether you prefer a refreshing beer, a fruity wine, or a strong rum, you will find something to suit your taste in Guatemala. However, before you indulge in the local drinking scene, you must know some essential facts and tips.
What is the legal drinking age in Guatemala, and how is it enforced?
The legal drinking age in Guatemala is 18 years old. This means that you have to be at least 18 years old to buy or consume alcoholic beverages in public places, such as bars, restaurants, clubs, or stores. However, this law is not always strictly enforced, especially in rural areas or tourist destinations.
It is not uncommon to see underage drinkers in Guatemala, especially during festivals or holidays. Some establishments may not ask for your ID before serving you alcohol, while others may be more strict and refuse to sell you alcohol if you look younger than 18. Therefore, carrying a valid form of identification, such as your passport or driver’s license, is always a good idea when you go out for a drink in Guatemala.
What are the Reasons and Risks of Underage Drinking in Guatemala, and How Can it be Prevented?
Underage drinking in Guatemala is a severe issue that needs to be addressed by the government, the society, and the families. According to a study by the World Health Organization, the average age of initiation of alcohol consumption in Guatemala is 13.9 years old, which is lower than the global average of 15.1 years old. The same study also found that 29.5% of 15-19-year-olds in Guatemala reported binge drinking in the past 30 days. Binge drinking is defined as consuming five or more drinks on one occasion for men or four or more drinks for women.
Accidents, injuries, or deaths:
Alcohol impairs your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, which can increase the risk of getting involved in a car crash, a fight, a fall, or a drowning. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is responsible for 16.8% of all road traffic deaths in Guatemala.
Violence, crime, or abuse:
Alcohol can make you more aggressive, impulsive, or reckless, which can lead to violent or criminal behavior, such as assault, robbery, vandalism, or rape. Alcohol can also make you more vulnerable to being a victim of violence, crime, or abuse, especially if you are a woman or a child. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is a factor in 24.5% of all homicides in Guatemala.
Addiction, disease, or mental health problems:
Alcohol can affect your brain, liver, heart, and other organs, which can cause various diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, pancreatitis, or cancer. Alcohol can also affect your mood, emotions, and mental health, which can cause depression, anxiety, or suicide. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is a risk factor for 25 different diseases and injuries in Guatemala.
Social, academic, or economic problems:
Alcohol can interfere with your relationships, education, or work, which can affect your social, academic, or economic status. Alcohol can also cause you to spend more money than you can afford, which can lead to debt, poverty, or homelessness.
The reasons why underage drinkers in Guatemala start and continue drinking are varied and complex.
Cultural norms and traditions:
Drinking is often seen as a social activity and a way of celebrating or bonding with family and friends. Many Guatemalan festivals and holidays involve alcohol consumption, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week), Independence Day, or Christmas. Some indigenous communities also have their rituals and ceremonies that involve alcohol, such as the Mayan New Year or the Day of the Dead.
Peer pressure and curiosity:
Many young people drink to fit in with friends or try something new. They may also drink to cope with stress, boredom, or emotional problems. Some young people may also drink to rebel against their parents or authority figures or to express their identity or independence.
Availability and affordability:
Alcohol is widely available and relatively cheap in Guatemala. Alcohol is found in most convenience stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, or street vendors. Some alcoholic beverages, such as beer or rum, are produced locally and are affordable. For example, a bottle of Gallo, the most popular beer in Guatemala, costs around $1.50. A bottle of Zacapa, the most famous rum in Guatemala, costs around $25. Other alcoholic beverages, such as wine or imported liquor, are more expensive and less common.
Lack of education and awareness:
Many young people in Guatemala do not receive adequate information or education about the risks and consequences of alcohol consumption. They may not be aware of the legal, health, or social problems that alcohol can cause, such as accidents, violence, addiction, or diseases. They may also not know how to drink responsibly or how to say no to alcohol if they do not want to drink.
To prevent and reduce underage drinking in Guatemala, there are some initiatives and programs that aim to raise awareness, educate, and support young people in Guatemala to make healthy and responsible choices regarding alcohol.
The National Alcohol Policy:
This policy was approved by the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala in 2017, establishing the legal framework and strategic guidelines for preventing and controlling alcohol-related problems in Guatemala. The policy includes measures such as increasing taxes on alcohol, regulating alcohol advertising and marketing, enforcing the legal drinking age and the BAC limit for drivers, promoting alcohol-free zones and activities, and providing treatment and rehabilitation for alcohol-dependent people.
The National Commission Against Addictions:
This commission was created by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance in 2018, which coordinates and implements the actions and programs related to preventing and reducing addictions in Guatemala. The commission includes representatives from different sectors, such as health, education, security, justice, and civil society. The commission also works with international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, the Pan-American Health Organization, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
The Alcohol-Free Zones:
These are areas declared by the municipal authorities to be areas where the sale and consumption of alcohol are restricted or banned. The alcohol-free zones are usually located in places where alcohol consumption can cause public disorder, violence, or health problems, such as schools, hospitals, churches, sports venues, or public transportation. The alcohol-free zones are also implemented during certain times or events, such as elections, religious celebrations, or national holidays.
These initiatives and programs are essential steps to address the issue of underage drinking in Guatemala, but they need more support and resources to be effective and sustainable. Moreover, they need to be complemented by the involvement and participation of the families, the communities, and the young people themselves, who are the main actors and beneficiaries of the prevention and reduction of underage drinking in Guatemala.
What Laws and Regulations Govern Alcohol Production, Distribution, Sale, and Consumption in Guatemala?
The laws and regulations that govern alcohol production, distribution, sale, and consumption in Guatemala are the rules and norms that are established by the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala and enforced by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, the Ministry of the Interior, and the National Civil Police. These laws and regulations are intended to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the population and to prevent and reduce the negative impacts of alcohol abuse and addiction.
The Law for the Regulation and Control of Alcoholic Beverages:
This law was approved by the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala in 2013, which regulates and controls the production, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages in Guatemala. The law defines the types and categories of alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, liquor, or spirits. It establishes the requirements and procedures for obtaining the licenses and permits to produce, distribute, or sell alcohol in Guatemala. The law also sets the taxes and fees for alcohol production, distribution, and sale and the sanctions and penalties for violating the law.
The Law for the Prevention and Control of Alcohol Consumption and its Effects on Health and Society:
This law, which regulates and controls alcohol consumption in Guatemala, was approved by the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala in 2017 and established the legal drinking age and the BAC limit for drivers, and the restrictions and prohibitions for alcohol consumption in public places and at certain times.
The law also defines the roles and responsibilities of the authorities and the institutions in charge of enforcing the law, such as the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, the Ministry of the Interior, and the National Civil Police. The law also establishes measures and programs for the prevention, education, and treatment of alcohol-related problems, such as the National Alcohol Policy, the National Commission Against Addictions, and the Alcohol-Free Zones. The law also sets the sanctions and penalties for violating the law.
The Decree for the State of Prevention:
This decree was issued by the President of the Republic of Guatemala in 2020, which declares a state of prevention in the whole territory of Guatemala to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The decree includes several measures and restrictions that affect the production, distribution, sale, and consumption of alcohol in Guatemala.
- The suspension of the licenses and permits for the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol in Guatemala, except for those essential for the health sector or the food industry.
- The prohibition of the sale and consumption of alcohol in commercial establishments and public spaces between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., except for those authorized by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance or the Ministry of the Interior.
- The prohibition of the sale and consumption of alcohol in private vehicles, except those used for transporting authorized personnel or goods.
- The prohibition of the sale and consumption of alcohol in any place with a risk of contagion or transmission of COVID-19, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, or markets.
These laws and regulations are subject to change depending on the situation and the government’s decisions. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed and updated about the current laws and regulations that govern alcohol production, distribution, sale, and consumption in Guatemala.
What are the Best Places and Types of Drinks to Enjoy in Guatemala?
If you are of legal drinking age and want to enjoy a drink in Guatemala, you have plenty of options. Guatemala has a diverse and vibrant drinking culture, where you can find different types of establishments, beverages, and atmospheres. Here are some of the best places and types of drinks to enjoy in Guatemala:
Bars: Bars are Guatemala’s most common and popular places to drink. You can find bars in almost every city and town, offering a variety of drinks, music, and entertainment. Some bars are casual and relaxed, while others are lively and crowded. Some bars specialize in beverages like beer, wine, or cocktails. Some bars also serve food, snacks, or appetizers.
- La Esquina Jazz Café: This is a cozy and elegant bar located in Antigua, Guatemala’s colonial city and tourist hub. The bar offers a selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, coffee, or tea, and a menu of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, or desserts. The bar also features live jazz music every night, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere.
- Café No Sé: This is a quirky and eclectic bar in Antigua. The bar offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, wine, mezcal, or tequila, and a menu of snacks, such as nachos, tacos, or burritos. The bar also has a hidden speakeasy, La Ilegal, where you can enjoy a shot of mezcal in a dimly lit and mysterious setting.
- El Portal: This is a historic and iconic bar in Antigua. The bar is situated in the city’s central plaza, facing the cathedral and the fountain. The bar offers a selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, rum, or sangria, and a menu of dishes, such as soups, salads, or sandwiches. The bar also has a great view of the plaza and the surrounding volcanoes, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset or the people.
Restaurants: Restaurants are another option in Guatemala, especially if you want to pair your drink with a meal. You can find restaurants that serve different cuisines, from traditional Guatemalan dishes to international specialties. Many restaurants also have a bar area or a wine list where you can order a drink.
- Kacao: This modern and elegant restaurant is located in Guatemala City, the capital and largest city of Guatemala. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, meats, or seafood, inspired by Guatemalan cuisine and culture. The restaurant also offers a selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, cocktails, or smoothies, made with local and exotic ingredients.
- La Fonda de la Calle Real is a traditional and charming restaurant in Antigua. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, such as stews, grills, or pasta, based on Guatemalan cuisine and history. The restaurant also offers a selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, coffee, or hot chocolate, prepared with local and organic products.
- Sabe Rico: This is a cozy and colorful restaurant located in Antigua. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, pizzas, or cakes, made with fresh and natural ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of drinks, such as beer, wine, juices, or teas, grown and harvested in their garden.
Clubs: Clubs are the places to drink in Guatemala if you want to dance and party. You can find clubs that play different genres of music, from salsa and merengue to reggaeton and electronic. Clubs usually open late at night and close early in the morning. They often charge an entrance fee and have a dress code.
- Trova Jazz: This is a trendy and lively club in Guatemala City. The club offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, wine, cocktails, or shots, and a menu of snacks, such as popcorn, chips, or nuts. The club also features live music every night, ranging from jazz and blues to rock and pop.
- Rattle and Hum: This is a fun and energetic club in Guatemala City. The club offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, wine, liquor, or shots, and a menu of dishes, such as burgers, wings, or fries. The club also plays different types of music, such as rock, metal, or alternative.
- Las Vibras de la Casbah: This is an excellent and stylish club in Antigua. The club offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, wine, cocktails, or shots, and a menu of snacks, such as nachos, quesadillas, or hummus. The club also plays different types of music, such as reggae, hip-hop, and electronic.
Cafés: Cafés are the places to drink in Guatemala if you want to enjoy a coffee or a tea. You can find cafés serving different coffee or tea types, such as espresso, cappuccino, latte, or chai. Some cafés also serve other drinks like hot chocolate, milkshakes, or smoothies. Some cafés also serve food like pastries, sandwiches, or salads.
- Café Barista: This is a popular and modern café chain with several locations in Guatemala. The café offers a variety of coffee and tea, such as americano, mocha, frappuccino, or green tea. The café provides drinks like hot chocolate, lemonade, or soda. The café also offers food, such as muffins, croissants, or wraps.
- Café Condesa: This is a cozy and charming café located in Antigua. The café offers a variety of coffee and tea, such as espresso, macchiato, latte, or herbal tea. The café provides drinks like hot chocolate, milkshakes, and juices. The café also offers food, such as pancakes, waffles, or omelets.
- Café Sky: This is a rooftop and scenic café located in Antigua. The café offers a variety of coffee and tea, such as cappuccino, mocha, frappe, or black tea. The café provides other drinks like hot chocolate, smoothies, or cocktails. The café also offers food, such as soups, salads, or sandwiches. The café also has a great view of the city and the volcanoes, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
These are some of the best places and types of drinks to enjoy in Guatemala, but there are many more to discover and explore. Guatemala offers much to drinkers of all tastes and preferences, so don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun!
What are the Customs and Etiquette of Drinking in Guatemala?
Drinking in Guatemala is not only a way of quenching your thirst or having fun but also a way of socializing and expressing yourself. Therefore, there are some customs and etiquette that you should know and follow when drinking in Guatemala.
Be respectful and polite:
When you drink in Guatemala, you should always be respectful and polite to the people you drink with, the staff who serve you, and the locals who live there. You should always greet and thank the people you interact with and avoid being rude or offensive. You should also respect the laws and regulations that govern alcohol production, distribution, sale, and consumption in Guatemala and avoid breaking them or causing trouble. You should also respect the culture and traditions of Guatemala and avoid being insensitive or ignorant.
Be moderate and responsible:
When you drink in Guatemala, you should always be moderate and responsible with your alcohol consumption. You should know your limits and avoid consuming more than you can handle. You should also avoid drinking on an empty stomach and drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated. You should also avoid mixing different types of alcohol or drinking alcohol with other substances, such as drugs or medications. You should also avoid driving or operating machinery after consuming it and use public transportation or a designated driver. You should also take care of yourself and your belongings and avoid getting into dangerous situations.
Be friendly and sociable:
When you drink in Guatemala, you should always be friendly and pleasant with the people you drink with and meet. You should always accept and offer a drink as a sign of friendship and hospitality and avoid rejecting or refusing a drink as a sign of disrespect or hostility.
You should also toast and cheers the people you drink with and say, “Salud!” (Health!) or “Chin chin!” (Cheers!) as a sign of good wishes and gratitude. You should also join and participate in the conversations and activities while drinking and avoid being shy or aloof. You should also share and enjoy the available drinks and food and avoid being greedy or wasteful.
These are some of the customs and etiquette you should know and follow when drinking in Guatemala, but there may be more depending on the place, the occasion, and the people you drink with. Therefore, it is essential to be observant and adaptable and to follow the example and the advice of the locals or the experienced travelers who drink in Guatemala.
Drinking in Guatemala can be a fun and rewarding experience as long as you do it with respect, moderation, and responsibility. Following the facts and tips we shared in this blog post, you can drink responsibly and safely in Guatemala and make the most of your experience.
Conclusion
Drinking in Guatemala can be a fun and rewarding experience as long as you do it with respect, moderation, and responsibility. We have covered everything you need to know about drinking in Guatemala, such as the legal drinking age, the reasons and risks of underage drinking, the laws and regulations that govern alcohol production, distribution, sale, and consumption, the best places and types of drinks to enjoy, and the customs and etiquette of drinking. Following the facts and tips we shared, you can drink responsibly and safely in Guatemala and make the most of your experience.
FAQs
Q: What is the legal drinking age in Guatemala?
A: The legal drinking age in Guatemala is 18 years old.
Q: Can 16-year-olds drink in Guatemala?
A: No, 16-year-olds cannot legally drink in Guatemala. However, underage drinking is every day and not consistently enforced in Guatemala.
Q: What are Guatemala’s alcohol laws?
A: The Guatemalan alcohol laws are the rules and regulations that govern the production, distribution, sale, and consumption of alcohol in Guatemala. These laws include the legal drinking age, the BAC limit for drivers, the restrictions and prohibitions for alcohol consumption in public places and certain times, and the taxes and fees that apply to alcohol production, distribution, and sale.
Q: Where can you drink in Guatemala?
A: You can drink in Guatemala in different establishments, such as bars, restaurants, clubs, or cafés. You can also revel in Guatemala in private places, such as homes, hotels, or hostels, as long as you have the permission of the owner or the manager.
Q: When can you buy alcohol in Guatemala?
A: You can buy alcohol in Guatemala in most convenience stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, or street vendors as long as you are of legal drinking age and have a valid form of identification. You can also buy alcohol in Guatemala in commercial establishments, such as bars, restaurants, clubs, or cafés, as long as they have the proper licenses and permits to sell alcohol. However, the sale and consumption of alcohol in commercial establishments and public spaces is prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. during the State of Prevention, a temporary measure implemented by the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Q: How do you ask for a beer in Guatemala?
A: You can ask for a beer in Guatemala by saying “Una cerveza, por favor” (One beer, please) or “Dos cervezas, por favor” (Two beers, please). You can also specify the brand or the type of beer you want, such as “Una Gallo, por favor” (One Gallo, please) or “Una clara, por favor” (One light beer, please).
Q: What are the best beers in Guatemala?
A: The best beers in Guatemala are the ones that are produced locally and are very popular among the locals and the tourists. Some of the best beers in Guatemala are:
- Gallo: This is the most popular and iconic beer in Guatemala. It is a lager beer with a golden color and a smooth taste. It has an alcohol content of 5% and a price of around $1.50 per bottle.
- Brahva: This is another popular beer in Guatemala. It is a light beer with a pale color and a refreshing taste. It has an alcohol content of 4.8% and a price of around $1.20 per bottle.
- Moza: This is a dark beer with a brown color and a rich taste. It has an alcohol content of 5.5% and a price of around $1.50 per bottle.