GUATEMALA | Sunday, 6 January 2013 | Views [308] | View Larger Image
Due to the fact the Lake is formed by collapsed volcano, there is no supply of freshwater yet it is one of the deepest lakes in Central America. When a hurricane hit the area in 2005, it destroyed the sewerage system, and led to an outbreak of algae bloom in the lake. The daily laundry that takes place in the lake unfortunately continues to contribute to this algae bloom.
Having said this, I had never witnessed women as hardworking as the locals we met at the lake. From washing clothes at the break of dawn, to carrying huge loads on their heads, taking care of their children whilst selling their crops and products at markets, along with little medical care and primitive living conditions they survived. Each face spoke of a story of hardship, yet we were greeted everywhere we went with open arms, a smile and friendliness.
