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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Verde...

I’ve been in America for 5 days now and I’ve got a job as a host in a local restaurant. Living the dream.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!! It’s finally nice to be back in a country where this glorious holiday is not only recognized, but celebrated. 

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The first picture is a guy making wicked cool pictures using only spray paint. Unreal watching it come together. Oh and the pink stuff is cotton candy. 

I miss having an oven. Not saying I utilized the one back in the states on a daily basis, but it’s nice being able to have that option. I’m running out of recipes that call for ‘pan frying’ my chicken. Speaking of food, I have eaten rice everyday for the past 7 months in one way or another. Potatoes come in a close second. Peruvians sure do love their carbs. 

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More pictures from the parade. Cute little kid in front of me, so of course I creepily took a picture while her mom wasn’t looking. Peruvian kids are adorable, but I think 10 is the cutoff between cute and obnoxious. 

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El Corso was awesome. Biggest parade I have ever seen in my life. Wore a soccer jersey of a local team today and got compliments from more than 1 old lady, which was a bit weird. Ate some of the best street food I’ve ever tried, although discerning between ‘carne’ and 'perro’ isn’t something I thought I would ever have to do. Stranger things have happened I’m sure. 

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It’s crazy here in Arequipa. It’s Arequipa Day and the city is shut down because everyone is watching “El Corso” which is a huge parade throughout the city. Every city / town in Peru and bordering countries comes to Arequipa and performs their traditional dance in the parade, accompanied of course with traditional costumes. It’s pretty wild. More to follow later

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