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.
Translate Fail
Even if they were using a translator, they still somehow managed to screw it up. As my 13 months in Arequipa come to a close, I can't help but reflect back on the whirlwind of an adventure I've had. My thanks go out to all those who made Peru an unforgettable experience. This country has opened my eyes, changed my perspectives, and humbled me more than I could have expected. I wish everyone the best and I'll see you in the future. Much love and many thanks Arequipa.
Wait wait wait...
Oh hello there,
It’s your last night in Arequipa and you want to go out?
How nice, here’s a never ending rainstorm and yes, we’re aware that there are no street drains, so the streets will turn into rivers. But seriously, have a good time
Sincerely,
Arequipan Weather
Camana, Peru
These are some fotos taken in Camaná, Peru. It’s always nice to get out of Arequipa, if only for the weekend. I’ve got less than a week left in AQP until I am off to Cuzco and then the States. It’s been an incredible 13 months and I am absolutely going to miss Peru.
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 _______”.
Fancy Lunch
My buddy is visiting from Camaná, so we and some other buddies decided to go out for some real food today. Went to “La Terraza” which overlooks ‘La Plaza De Armas’ here in Arequipa. Legit.
1st pic is chicken something, I forgot the name
2nd pic is ceviche, which is always delicious with 'chelas’ (beers)
Doritos what?!
Every bag of Doritos I have eaten in the past month or so has come with a mini packet of Ketchup or Mustard. I don’t know if this is a world wide promotional thing, or if they are just catering to the fact that Peruvians eat their chips in the most disgusting way possible.
Lights Out
The Superdome losing power really set things off here in Peru. My landlady forgot to pay the utility bill so I was without power all day yesterday. Halfway through my Muay Thai class, the power went off and we were informed that the entire Southern region of Peru had lost power. Walking down the street was an eerie experience. The sidewalks were full of people with candles, flashlights, and umbrellas. (It was also raining).
So after training I was hungry and decided to stop by a Chifa to see if the loss of power had affected their kitchen. Nope. All the tables were lit with candles and as I sat there and ate my ‘lomo saltado’, I couldn’t help but think, “It would suck to live in the 1700’s”.
ITA info about AQP, Peru
(International TEFL Academy)
I answered a questionnaire about teaching/living in Arequipa, Peru, so if you have any questions, this just about sums up every aspect of Arequipa.
Fun Fact: The picture of me at the beach was taken in Arica, Chile. Besides the casino, there isn’t too much else.
Last Day of Work
Good morning! Or good night? If you picked sunset, consider yourself the big winner
FIN!
After completing a full year, today was my last day at Extreme English. I’ll be here for the month of February, teaching private classes and practicing my Muay Thai/Boxing, and then off to Machu Picchu in March with the rents. It’s been a long and interesting year, that’s for sure. I’ve met a lot of real cool people from all over the world and I hope to see you all again in the future. I can’t say it enough; Peru is a super cool country. I have 1 more month to enjoy South America and I’ll certainly take advantage of my time off.
‘Plaza de Cayma’
The last picture is the Google-Maps-Mobile, so naturally as it rounded the corner I waved at it. So perhaps if you are randomly searching for La Calle Ampatacocha and the unnamed sidestreet, you’ll see a dashingly good looking gringo in a tank top waving at you.
