PERU

Country Overview:

"Arequipa, the white city of Peru and the gateway to the Colca Canyon, offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty."

Located in the heart of southern Peru, Arequipa is a city that showcases the best of what the country has to offer. From its stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage, to its beautiful natural surroundings and delicious cuisine, Arequipa has something for everyone. Arequipa is a hidden gem — it's a place where you can experience the very best of Peruvian culture and history, all while enjoying the beauty of the Andes mountains and the Colca Canyon. Whether you're looking to explore the city's historic center, sample its delicious cuisine, or simply relax in its peaceful surroundings, Arequipa should definitely be on your travel list.

I lived in Arequipa, Peru from September 2011 to November 2012. I taught English, practiced Muay Thai, and got really into learning Peruvian slang. I also visited Lima, Cuzco, Colca Canyon, and Playa Mollendo.


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Peru Rail

These are from Machu Picchu Pueblo, the little town that sits about 30 minutes from MP. Good times…

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Urubamba

And this is Urubamba. Lovely day here in Peru. Machu PIcchu mñn

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Gustavo

"If I commanded a city, I would forbid reggaeton. In bars, in public, it would even be illegal to have on your ipod. Reggaeton is stupid and I hate it. Oh what music do I like? I like heavy metal Catholic rock." - Gustavo (a student), after being asked what he would do if he were in charge of a city. I hope he never gets elected into office.

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Cabanaconde: Not a lot to see. It’s really only there to serve the tourists that come to hike Colca. Although small, it was such a cool city; well all 4 blocks of it. Being there takes you back to a simpler time of life. Street food cooked over open coals, native indigenous clothing, and mules, donkeys, and horses as the normal means of transportation. Only challenge of the city was watching where I stepped. 

The last picture isn’t Cabanaconde, just some little pueblo on the way. Aren’t you glad there is a structure to these pictures?

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