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.
Turn Off the TV
Truth.
As I count down my 10 days left until Cuzco, I get more and more excited. I’ll miss Arequipa, but at the same time, it will be nice to return back to the States where I can finally get my hands on all of the things of which I’ve so often said, “I wish Peru had _______”.
Cristal
It’s an odd thing, coming from a country with choices to a country with substantially ‘less’ choices. American grocery stores have, for the most part, upwards of 20-30 different types of beer to choose from. Arequipa, not so much. First, don’t even think about a 'walk-in cooler’. Where do you think you are? Second, there are about 7 Peruvian beers and an 'import’ section, which consists of Corona, Heineken, and MGD. At this point, I no longer get excited when buying beer, thinking, “Oh, I wonder if Blue Moon has their Winter Abbey out yet”. My thought process nowadays is, “What’s the cheapest beer in the fridge?”. But I’ll be damned if there aren’t 50 different types of Pisco available. Priorities Peru, priorities.
And because I’m classy, the 'I heart boobies’ bracelet was a present for my friend Daniela’s birthday. She was ecstatic.
Fruit
As I browse through the fruit section of grocery stores in Arequipa, I am continually amazed at the wide variety of fruits and vegetables available here. Although America has fruit available year round because of ‘modifications’, I prefer the Peruvian fruits and veggies more.
Although the name is written on these packages, I still have no idea what they are nor what they taste like. Just thought they looked interesting. Speaking of which, I ate a tiny orange banana yesterday that one of my students gave me, saying it was from 'la selva’. Thanks Olenka!
Not only have I not seen a Jeep here in Peru, American beer is nowhere to be found. And on this sunny afternoon, I see a Miller Genuine Draft Jeep parked across the street from my house. This country never ceases to amaze me.
“Uh teacher, why do we get the 4th of July off?”
“Are you kidding me?”
Living it up in style today as I enjoy our Independence Day down here in South America. Getting a bbq was a hassle, but with enough persuasion, anything is possible. Haven’t cooked with good ‘ol fashioned charcoal in awhile, but I’m always up for an adventure
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Classroom Conversations in Peru
Before heading overseas to be an ESL teacher, there are quite a few things that you really can’t prepare for. Like trying to explain the many different definitions of the word ‘swoop’ (excluding the EWU mascot) and why Americans make fun of Canadians. (For the record, 'because Americans make fun of everyone’ seems to be an easy answer). Although I would like to give my students a concise rule for English grammar, “Because that’s the way it is” is a frequent response. For example, after some verbs you have to use the infinitive, no questions asked. Why? Sorry to burst your bubble Jorge, but that’s English for ya.
After having a lively discussion with a Peruvian student who needed advice on where to travel in the States, we concluded that many popular travel destinations were located around the perimeter of the US; which also included most major cities. Not to mention my personal bias that the Midwest (besides Chicago) is rather boring.
I then asked her, “Where do you want to go?”
With which she replied, “Not New Jersey, I hear it’s really dirty”.
“Well you’ve certainly got a point there”
Soccer / Fútbol
Me:I'm excited for some soccer this afternoon
Student:It's called 'Fútbol'
Me:Not in America kid
America renaming Europe's most popular sport. TFM.
America: The future (apparently)
22 year old Peruvian student asked me if ‘x-ray glasses that could see through walls’ existed in America. Sorry to shatter your dreams Rolando, but we’re still a couple years away