Under $100: Flores

The small island of Flores is mainly used as a jumping off point for trips to the Mayan ruins at Tikal, but it is a charming little town that merits a day of exploration.

Start your day with breakfast at Hostel Los Amigos, which has earned a reputation for big portions of travelers’ favorites, such as pancakes and omelettes ($7). Take a boat across the lake ($1) and climb to the observation tower that affords great views back across to Flores, whose higgledy-piggledy roofs look great in the sunlight.

Hostel Los Amigos © John Barrie | Flickr

Make the short trip back over the lake and head to San Telmo for lunch. The charming restaurant is decked out in bright colors, and offers a welcoming shady retreat from the beating sun. Order the curry, which is sweet and not too spicy, and wash it down with one of the many milkshakes or fruit juices ($10).

Once you’ve digested your food, rent a kayak ($10) and paddle around the island at your own pace. You can also kayak out to the floating museum, which contains a number of Mayan artefacts. It won’t win any prizes, but it’s certainly an oddity.

© Pablo Hidalgo | Dreamstime

Back in Flores, drink in the sunset with some beers at Terrazzo Restaurant & Bar ($3 each) before descending to the bustling night market where local women feed the masses at rock-bottom prices. Order an assortment of dishes including crunchy tostadas with various toppings; tacos; crunchy burritos; and sweet cakes for dessert ($5).

To top off your evening, get down to Sky Bar for some more beers and cocktails ($3 each) before retiring to bed.