Current Time in GuatemalaCity
Guatemalan culture regarding time
Guatemalan culture regarding time
A culture where "Latin time" is deeply rooted
In Guatemala, the sense of time is not as strict as in Japan, and it is common to be a little late for the scheduled time, which is also called "Latin time".
Valuing time with family
People tend to value spending time with their family after work or school, and dinner and holidays are often centered around family events.
Focusing on daytime activities
Most activities are from early morning to afternoon, and many commercial facilities and government offices tend to close early in the evening.
Guatemalan values regarding time
A flexible sense of time does not hinder trust
In Guatemala, even if you are a little late for an appointment, it does not often lead to a deterioration of human relationships, and flexibility tends to be appreciated.
Life in accordance with the rhythm of nature
In areas where there are many agricultural workers, it is important to live in accordance with nature, such as starting activities at sunrise and resting early after sunset.
A culture that values "the present moment"
The culture places more importance on "what can be done now" than on future plans, and there is a flexible attitude to accept things even if they do not go as planned.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Guatemala
Appointment times are only a guideline
Even in business situations, delays of about 10 to 15 minutes are not uncommon, so it is important to take it easy and not rush.
Be aware of the opening hours of government offices and banks
Government offices and banks often close around 4 p.m., so it is best to visit in the morning. If you go in the afternoon, they may already be closed for business.
Time differences due to traffic conditions are common
In urban areas, traffic congestion is so severe that it is difficult to predict how long it will take to travel, which often leads to people being late for appointments.
Fun facts about time in Guatemala
"Mañana" does not necessarily mean tomorrow
In Spanish, "mañana" means "tomorrow," but in Guatemala it is sometimes used in an ambiguous sense, meaning "someday," and does not necessarily mean that it will happen right away.
Schools are mostly divided into morning and afternoon shifts
In many schools, classes are held in morning and afternoon shifts, and students have different starting times.
Daylight saving time is not adopted
Guatemala is close to the equator and there is little change in the hours of daylight, so daylight saving time is not adopted. The same standard time is used throughout the year.