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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Say Cheese

Because smiling like a normal person is boring. 

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Forum

This was taken at Forum for my friend’s birthday party. Peruvians sure do know how to get down. 

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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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“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! 

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Go-Karting in Peru

Go karting weeew! Last picture is the bar where my buddy and I had a couple beers to celebrate our victory of beating the two 11 year old kids on the track. Hey, a win’s a win.

There was also a giant soccer tournament going on outside and we noticed that everyone was eating pollo asado con arroz. After sitting amongst the crowd for awhile, we then asked the guy next to us how much a plate cost and he told us that it was a private event and food was invitation only. Turns out a league of taxi drivers was having a private tournament and we were told that “Ya, you guys are sort of crashing our event”. Duly noted señor. And with that, we finished our beers, stood up and left without making any sudden movements. 

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