I did not make the 4:30am wake-up with the other travelers at the hostel to make an early start to Tikal. The dark sky was threatening rain, so I decided to splurge and check into a hotel with air-conditioning, cable TV, lake view, pool, and hot tub. La Casona, a step above my usual accommodations when traveling for a month, has a pink with blue trim exterior, a cheery, yellow- walled dining room, pool-side bar and outdoor dining. Luckily I was allowed into a room way before check in. The room was nicely decorated although not that big as it was a single for $35US. I watched the storm from the deck and waited hours reading about Tikal and watching TV. Eventually the sun made an appearance again so I headed down to the pool. While sunning on a lounge chair a boy of about five wandered over and asked in Spanish why I was not swimming. I had read warnings about the fear of foreigners and child abductions here, so I was a bit hesitant about interacting with him. With a smile to the parents who were busy with a toddler, I got in the pool, and the boy started talking to me. I asked his name and by this time his mother came over with a slightly concerned look on her face. I told them my name and said nice to meet you in Spanish. I must have passed muster with mom, because she encouraged him to speak to me in English, "say nice to meet you". We all had a chance to practice another language, play and blow bubbles. It was a cute experience. This a great choice for families or couples wanting a romantic evening setting. The staff was pleasant and helpful exchanging money and providing luggage storage after check out.