When the word Peru falls on a traveller's ears he immediately perks up and Machu Picchu clouds his thoughts. Well been there done that and have to say Machu Picchu is not the only thing amazing about this South American wonder. I travelled to Peru this November primarily for a climate change conference COP20 but how could have I not planned a vacation around it being the travel junkie I am. A little halt in Florida and Atlanta (which I'll write about in upcoming posts) we landed in Peru. Peruvians are fun loving and warm people. Everyday is like a celebration with locals singing and dancing in public parks and always euphoric.
There are some points that should be taken care of, when travelling to Peru.
- Get a yellow fever vaccine prior travelling to Peru.
- Buy a local sim card on the Airport itself, they are cheap.
- Bargain a LOT! (They see a tourist an start their rip off session)
- Move out in groups in the night.
- The dressed up locals take money if you click their picture conspicuously.
- You can get a currency exchange from almost anywhere without worrying about the exchange rates. They are mostly near about same.
- Do not go Single! In Peru there is an extreme culture of public display of affection and you would find couples cuddling everywhere so if you're single you're gonna have a hard time.
This is one of the most affluent areas in Lima almost like it has life of it's own. This place never sleeps and is right over the Pacific shore.
Good rooms. Great service. Superb breakfast. Very friendly staff. But do not anyhow reach before the check in time, otherwise you might have to camp out in the lobby.
This Larco Museum is the best place to find out about the Peruvian history under one roof. You MUST hire a guide to tell you about the cultures and civilizations and show you around the museum. they do it in such an adorable and dramatic manner and the accent is cherry on the cake!
The most beautiful mall hands down. Standing proudly facing the Pacific Ocean Larcomar is a dream come true for shoppers, foodies and cultural enthusiasts. The place has a charm of it's own. Little cafes, all year round exhibitions, fine dining, branded stores, cycling track, play area, skaters and what not! Totally filled with tingling buzz.
Tiny little culture bursting Cuzco/Cusco is an inevitable halt for all the Machu Picchu goers. Cuzco is a place I enjoyed on foot the entire day and also a little by night.
