What countries speak Spanish most similar to Guatemalan Spanish?

Question

I know that Spanish is the same language in different countries - but I'm specifically interested in Guatemala since I'll be working here and probably coming back here repeatedly over the next few years.

I'm curious if anyone knows what other Spanish-speaking countries are the most similar to Guatemala with respect to slang, expressions, and just general forms of speaking (including usage of vos etc.)?

Thanks!

Answer 1

I would say that Mexican Spanish would be the most similar, as many Guatemalans go back and forth between the countries. Also, many Guatemalans that I have met use similar slang and expressions as many Mexicans that I know.

However, I have never been to Guatemala, so if I am wrong please correct me. - vivalafuriaroja, Jun 28, 2011

Estoy de acuerdo, Viva... - Jeremias, Jun 28, 2011

Guess that makes sense, thanks! I guess the main difference is vos - Cyradis, Jun 28, 2011

Answer 2

The short answer is: the closer geographically speaking, the closer in general. Being so close to Mexico, the Mexican variety of Spanish is not that different, and it should be quite influential given its size. However, in terms of vocabulary and "voseo", El Salvador is probably the closest one, although it shares many features with Honduras too.