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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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. 

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Chile is alright. I personally don’t think that any country needs to have such high denominations of currency (10,000 peso bills), pero cada loco con su tema. Arica has a real nice casino, although they didn’t seem to understand the concept of free drinks when you gamble. Vegas > Arica

Talked to an old Chilean cab driver and told him that we wanted to go to a bar where we could meet girls. Next thing you know he drops us off at a place and as soon as we walk inside girls are touching us, asking our names, the whole nine yards. I look at my buddy and simultaneously we acknowledge the fact that this is too easy. We are in a hooker bar. We quickly finish our beers, slide away from the ladies and leave. I suppose that ‘meet girls’ either got lost in translation, or that’s how old Chilean taxistas roll. 

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The Beach in Arica, Chile

This is ‘La Playa El Laucho’ in Arica, Chile and it was stunning. In case any of you are wondering, of course I got sun burned. Chile was super fun, although I don’t recommend going during Semana Santa because many stores and restaurants were closed. Just like like the subject of Chile in Peru, Chileans are quick to rag on Peruvians and seem to have an endless supply of examples supporting their belief of “Chile > Peru”. 

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