If you plan on getting something to remember your stay here in Guatemala, I also stock many items made or grown here in Guatemala. If you plan on flying or driving out of the country, the plants won't go because of various restrictions. It should also be noted that these plants are not taken from the wild. They are cultivated here in Guatemala so you are not contributing to deforestation.

The pictures above of the bowls and the book are made from the fiber of the banana trunk. The trunks are chopped up finely and starch from the yuca are mixed in with the fiber and water. At that point screens can gather the pulp to make paper or form into various shapes. They are not water soluble but they are great for holding fruit or just as decoration. I also have picture frames and cards made from this material. Sometimes corn husks or the native fabrics are used to adorn these beautiful items. The baskets are woven pine needles. The craftsmanship on them is incredible. Also the prices on these items are amazingly inexpensive.

BEUCARNEA RECURVATA (PONY TAIL PALMS)

Pony tail palms as named by many, are endemic to the Yucatan peninsula as a whole. These plants are traditionally grown in some areas in Guatemala. Where a local know-how is continuously exercised and improved.