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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CHIFA

I’m a little nervous to return to the States and eat beef, because if it tastes radically different than what I’ve been eating in Peru, it will only confirm my suspicion that I’ve been eating dog at ‘El Gavilan"

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Takeout Chifa

For my Aunt Winnie who has a difficult time figuring out what the food pictures are:

‘Pollo verdura’ - Chicken, fried rice, broccoli, lettuce, peas, and red peppers. Yum.

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Nothing like Chifa on a Sunday. There’s construction going on behind the fence and it’s quite interesting to watch the progress every time I walk by. At the rate they’re going, I give it 3 months before the foundation is finished.

I hope everyone had a terrific Saint Patrick’s Day! Trying to explain to Peruvians the significance of the day was rather difficult but telling them it was a reason to drink was quite the opposite. Had a lengthy discussion last night about which country (Peru vs. Ireland) was more known for potatoes. We settled on “it’s all relative”.

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Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you ‘Lomo saltado con chaufa’. It’s one of the most popular/cheapest plates found in a Chifa here in Arequipa, Peru. For S/.5, it’s hard to pass up for a quick bite around lunch time.