Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is one of the most atmospheric towns in Central America. The city dates back to 1543, when it became the capital of Guatemala. Antigua's many handsome Spanish colonial buildings were almost completely destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1773. Three years later, the capital was moved to the present site of Guatemala City. Antigua slowly came back to life, and today its earthquake-ravaged convents and baroque churches, colorful Maya markets, and backdrop of soaring volcanoes offer endless photographic possibilities. Antigua was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

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Antigua, Guatemala - Images by John Mitchell

Granada, Nicaragua

Dubbed Nicaragua's "tourism capital," the handsome Spanish colonial city of Granada on the shores of vast Lake Nicaragua has become increasingly popular among travelers during recent years. Great pains have been taken to protect Granada's historical buildings and to preserve its colonial charm by ensuring that all new buildings blend in with existing colonial architecture. With its dignified churches, elegant plazas, colorful facades, and ubiquitous horse-drawn carriages, Granada promises to remain one of the most photogenic cities in Latin America.

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Granada, Nicaragua - Images by John Mitchell