"NamasteDirect lives up to its name in creating a direct connection for visitors with the people, challenges, opportunities and the very heart of Guatemala's Mayan people. This is a rare chance to travel into the reality, both the heartrending and uplifting dimensions, of a rich culture and people whose very existence is at risk... And it is a chance to learn how to provide help that can really help—via microcredit and uplifting the poorest of women. This is a profoundly life-enriching journey! Thank you!"

- Rio de la Vista, 2005 trip participant

Guatemala Microcredit Trip

November 13 - 20th, 2010

Guatemala is one of the most vivid, colorful, indigenous, and complex countries in the world!

This 9-day trip will be a balance of microcredit-intensive and cultural, natural geographical experiences. We are purposely having a small group -- 10 maximum -- so that trip members can get the best experience possible!

Microcredit

• Visiting with borrower participants in the ground-breaking Namaste Business Development with Microcredit Program, which combines business education, personal mentoring, vocational workshops and loans.
• Time at the Third Annual Microcredit Borrowers Conference at Lake Atitlán, which will be attended by about 100 Mayan Businesswomen.
• An exposure to microcredit NGOs and a behind-the-scenes look at how they operate.

Culture and Geography

• Briefings by knowledgeable people on the political, economic and social aspects of Guatemala.
• Exploring the first Spanish capital in the Americas, Antigua, which is a UN World Heritage Site.
• Visiting Lake Atitlán, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Stay at stunningly beautiful Hotel Atitlán with sweeping garden and lake views, located next to the San Buenaventura Nature Preserve.
• Traveling to that marvel of the ancient Mayan civilization, Tikal

For more details and to reserve your spot:

contact Bob Graham