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.
Sticklers...
Money. Peruvians have a trust issue with money. Every time I pay, regardless of the bill size, they inspect it as if it were a rare diamond, searching for any and all imperfections. Oh, but don’t worry, the minuscule tear has been taped up. “WE CAN’T ACCEPT IT”. I recently tried to pay a taxi driver with a S/. 5 coin and turns out, it was fake. A fake S/. 5 coin, who would go to all that trouble? At this point, I am used to this lack of trust and while the cashier is examining my bill I like to say, “It’s fake, pretty good job eh?” To which they give me a, “That’s not funny” look and hastily give me my change.
Siglo Veinte // Ardidas
Siglo Veinte, one of the black markets here in Arequipa, Peru, clearly doesn’t even try to hide the fact that they are selling fake merchandise. I suppose it doesn’t matter though if you are a big fan of “Adadis”.
Small differences
Talked with my students about the difference between a S/. 220 Adidas jacket at the Adidas store and the same jacket for S/. 20 at the black market. To which I was told, “The black market sells AdiBas and Mike instead of Nike”. Close, but no cigar.