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
Differences...
There’s a 6'5 chubby Colombian guy in my Muay Thai class and our trainer was asking him what he thought about Peruvian girls vs. Colombian girls. Right off the bat, he said Peruvian girls were stuck up. He also said that right now in Colombia, it’s around 35C and in Peru, it’s 16C. Because of this, he said that going to Peruvian clubs, girls are wearing layers upon layers of clothes and he’s bored because there’s nothing to look at. But in Colombia: (At this point, he then pretended to walk like a Colombian girl) “They wear mini skirts and a tiny bra, boom, ready for the club”. hahaha this kid had everyone cracking up
Spanish Test
Saw this on Reddit and couldn’t help but think, “This has got to be a Spanish class in Arizona”.
Represent...
I went to see “Warm Bodies” the other day and in the beginning of the movie the president says, “And god bless the United States of America” and I yelled “WEEEEEEEW” and all of the sudden I heard numerous Peruvians shout, ‘BOOOO’ and 'CALLATE!“
No love for the EE.UU
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”.
Nicknaming
Student (Rain Man): What am I supposed to call you: Mr. Hill, Degen, teacher…?
Degen: Call me “El Tigre”
Gumby
We’ve got a special post today. Ladies, I’d like to introduce you all to my student, Juan. He discovered my blog and proceeded to laugh and tell me that no one reads it. So to all those ladies out there that are interested and clearly not reading this blog, don’t hesitate another minute! He goes by the name, “Señor Don Juan Ton” or “Gumbi” due to his gangly stature.
Juan: I told you I’d post this
How Not to Pee
I’ve seen more ‘how to not pee’ signs here in Peru than probably my entire life. I guess they’re necessary.
Trip of a lifetime...
I had my students write travel advertisements and here was the winner:
Have you ever wanted to see paradise on earth, also known as Pyongyang, North Korea? If you sign up now, you can be one of the 1st hundred people to say, “I love North Korea!” One lucky winner will even have a private lunch on the grave of Kim Jong-Il. Don’t wait another second! Call 1-800-IheartNK to reserve your spot now!
This kid had me cracking up this morning.
Where you at?
Things I have not seen since being in Peru:
1. Convertibles
2. Beer on tap
3. Toyota Prius
4. Public water fountains
5. Monster energy drink
6. Soda vending machines
7. Automatic Urinal
8. Milk in a plastic container. It either comes in a big juice box or a bag
9. Coinstar. Oh how I miss Coinstar
10. Water sold in bulk. As in a flat of 24 bottles.
11. Elevators. I’m sure they exist, but haven’t seen nor taken one in a year
12. Parking meters
13. Automatic soda/water dispensers used by bartenders
14. Fitted Hats
15. Cold open coolers for beer. Only a variety of 6 packs and singles are kept in refrigerators. Super markets (in Arequipa) don’t have aisles like the ones where cheese and milk are kept; designated only for beer.
16. Buttons for cross walks.
On an unrelated note, while surfing the net, I saw single serving packets of Sriracha and just about lost my mind.