Living in Guatemala Through Food: Pepián and Rellenitos
You Want to Live in Guatemala... But Do You Know About Real Guatemalan Food?
Relocating to a new country can be thrilling, but it can also feel daunting when you do not know where to start. In Guatemala, food is more than just nourishment. It is your doorway into culture, connection, and belonging. With 93% of travelers engaging in food activities during trips, ignoring the role of cuisine means missing the heart of what makes life in Guatemala special.
So, let us explore the flavors that make living or retiring in Guatemala not just possible, but magical.
The Magic of Pepián
Pepián is Guatemala’s national stew, filled with chicken, roasted vegetables, pumpkin seeds, and dried chiles. It is bold, hearty, and deeply tied to Mayan traditions. Eating it for the first time often feels like stepping into a story written generations ago.
For expats and retirees, this is not just food. It is a taste of everyday life. With Guatemala offering a comfortable lifestyle for as little as $1,700 per month, dishes like Pepián remind you that affordability can meet cultural richness in one place.
Recipe at a Glance
When you settle here, you quickly learn that food like this is about belonging. And belonging is exactly what Shepherd helps you create.
Rellenitos de Plátano: A Sweet Tradition
Rellenitos are fried plantains stuffed with cinnamon-spiced beans. They sound unusual at first, but the combination of sweetness and warmth makes them unforgettable. Pair them with powdered sugar, and you hold in your hand a dessert that celebrates Guatemala’s love for balance.
Just as Rellenitos balance flavors, Shepherd balances your relocation journey. Whether you are retiring, starting fresh, or simply exploring, having a trusted partner is essential. Especially if you are a woman, knowing you can rely on a safe and supportive experience changes everything.
Why Food and Lifestyle Are Inseparable in Guatemala
Guatemala is more than scenic volcanoes and colonial towns. It is also one of the most affordable countries in Central America, where a single person can live well for $1,000 per month. This affordability, paired with its food culture, makes the transition smoother.
Guatemalan chefs are also redefining their cuisine on the global stage, gaining recognition for innovation and authenticity. This rise has turned food into a cultural export, sparking a growing wave of gastronomic tourism. For you, that means dining experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
Key Reasons Food Matters for Expats
With 42% of Guatemala’s population identifying as Maya, you taste indigenous heritage every time you sit down for a meal.
Living Here Beyond the Plate
Guatemala is not just affordable. Tourism already contributes 10.2% of its GDP, making it a vibrant and growing hub for culture and opportunities. By choosing Guatemala, you are entering a place where tradition and modern living blend.
When you let Shepherd guide you, your relocation does not have to be uncertain. From handling procedures to ensuring your safety, Shepherd makes it smooth. And once the paperwork is done, you can sit back with a plate of Pepián and truly feel at home.
Begin your Guatemalan journey with Shepherd! Contact Us today.