I've recently returned from a trip to Lago de Atitlán, Guatemala...

A beautiful lake home to a couple of large volcanos and a sprinkling of idyllic towns around its shores...

Each bringing their own unique character and flare. Whether you're in the hustle and bustle of Santiago city, the hilly traditional town of Santa Cruz or the hippie mecca of San Marcos, all of these towns present different pieces of a puzzle that add up to one perfect, whole adventure experience.

However, beware...

This place is frequently referred to by the small community of expat residents as "The Vortex"

Why vortex? Because if you happen to find yourself crossing paths with this magical place, there's a chance you'll find yourself never leaving. Or at least find yourself returning...

For good...

Like myself...

In a month's time.

Oh yes, I fell willingly into its grasp. That's part of its magic.

But what is it exactly that gives this vortex its mysterious powers?

Could it have been these early mornings spent on the garden pier?

Playing to this too-good-to-be-true backdrop of Tolimán volcano and the fisher boats passing by.

Or maybe the days spent meeting many of the welcoming indigenous residents...

Listening to their stories, learning their language and enjoying the kind, gentle warmth behind their culture.

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Although I have to say my highest suspicions rest with San Juan...

A town based on the lake, known across Guatemala for being "the town of artists" and, oh yes, it's as good as it sounds. MAYBE even better. Picturesque, cobbaled streets, laden with endless galleries and bucket loads of talent, splashing their gorgeous artistic expression all over the town's walls. For an artist like me this place really was too good to be true...

... A little too good to be true? Which, ladies and gentlemen, gives us our perfect suspect for mysterious and magical activity.