Antigua is a UNESCO heritage site. It is very restrictive regarding the outside appearance of buildings. You can be standing in front of a Starbucks (yes there is one here) or McD and there is only a small plaque outside telling you what is inside. I quite like it. Antigua is very touristy place for gringos and locals alike. Especially on weekends. The key is go out early and beat the crowds. The local markets is a place to be seen. Cheap and fresh fruits and veggies and everything else. People everywhere. The local bus station is behind the market. There is no schedules, the bus leaves when the bus is full. Streets are paved with cobble stones. Not pleasant to ride on it and even worse to walk on it. Here are some pictures from the city.