Let's discuss communication in Guatemala and Mexico.
Sounds good. My Spanish is mostly limited to ordering tacos.
A good start! Guatemala has a mix of Spanish and Mayan languages.
It's not just one language. The linguistic diversity is impressive.
It's a challenge for tourists. In tourist areas, English is spoken, but venturing off the beaten path requires Spanish or Mayan knowledge, or a phrasebook.
Exactly. You need to know what you're asking for, or you might get something unexpected.
Mexico is mostly Spanish, right? Is it easier there?
Mostly, yes, but there are different accents and slang. Even fluent speakers might struggle sometimes. There are also indigenous languages spoken in Mexico.
Like Náhuatl and Maya?
Yes, many. They aren't always visible in tourist areas, but they exist.
Cultural norms are important too. How direct or indirect people are.
Mexicans can be polite and indirect. You might need to read between the lines. "Ahorita" can mean anything from "now" to "next week."
Like "mañana" in Spain! Is Guatemala similar?
Similar, depending on who you're talking to. It's more obvious in smaller towns.
So, Guatemala has more languages, Mexico has more widespread Spanish, but both have their quirks.
Precisely. Language learning and cultural awareness are essential for travelers.