Cusco

While a day in Lima can be quite fun, the real destinations on this journey are in-land and magical indeed.  The first half of our trip will take place in Peru, along with ten other American’s, as we are whisked from town to town by Aventouras, an adventure tour company that is taking care of every detail. This is an adventure themed experience, meaning that in each special location we will be either biking, hiking, rafting, or kayaking. The activities will be offset by eating, stopping at historical sights, brief periods of sleeping, and frequent use of Tylenol (for me at least).

We all met for dinner in Lima, and then the very next morning we traveled back to the airport for our flight to Cusco. I should probably inform you now that I’m not listening with precise attention to much of the offered information. Maybe that is for you to fill-in, because I can see that some of you would be so interested in the history here. For instance, can anyone among our group tell us all why Cusco is so special? I was hearing fragments of information about Pre-Incan times, then the Incas and their amazing abilities, then there was another civilization that came along sometime before the Spanish arrived. It all sounded fascinating, but I wasn’t in the mood to listen with my ears and head. The beauty of the surrounding mountains, some with snow tops, the crystal clear atmosphere unobstructed by clouds, the narrow cobblestone streets, the traditionally dressed locals with big hats and long black braids.... OH, who has time to listen when there is so much to feel and see? That’s just me of course, if there is someone in our group that was listening, please tell us all some more about Cusco!

Time for a fun lunch

Our little group very quickly jelled to perfection. We all marveled and were surprised by the beautiful boutique accommodations, and fabulous restaurants, selected for us in advance. Upon arrival we walked to lunch, offered in support of a local children’s social project. How unique, fun, AND delicious! There will be pictures and video to follow. Afterwards we were given tours of the main cathedral (no pictures allowed inside), the remains of the Incan temple within the city (fascinating architecture), and an Incan mountaintop temple complex with sweeping views of the city. This incredibly long day was followed by a one hour break at the hotel before heading out for dinner. The restaurant was magnificent, and as I promised to many of you, I ordered the local delicacy of grilled Guinea Pig. I hope you enjoy the photo memories that I have loaded from Cusco... there is SO MUCH more to come!

The only way to eat it... so many small bones