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.
World Cup..
Qualifiers all afternoon. Glad to be in a country where soccer is the national sport. Although missing NCAA football is starting to take its toll. Biggest game today is Peru vs. Bolivia, of which I have bet on the latter. Half the fun is the debates I have with my students about how terrible Peru is at soccer. I guess we will see in a couple hours.
Police with riot shield was one of about 20 who escort the refs off the field. Peruvians can be a little rowdy. Now I understand why they the stadium doesn’t sell beer.
Sport Boys
Went to Sport Boys (lima) Vs. Melgar (arequipa) soccer game which ended 5-1 Melgar. Being literally the only person wearing the pink Sport Boys jersey, I got yelled / laughed at for the majority of the game. But you better believe I celebrated our only goal in style, although the crowd wasn’t as enthusiastic about it as I was. Nothing like a local Peruvian soccer game to remind you that swearing sounds much cooler in Spanish.
I was walking behind this guy for awhile today and no matter how I tried to justify it, I couldn’t find a logical reason for his shirt. “Farmer’s Daughter” is clearly over my head.
As I sit in my living room eating Lomo Saltado and yelling at Germany to “Take it to the hole!” I realize this is exactly where I want to be. Perú is a fantastic country and I’ve met some of the coolest people here. Except for those ‘oh so pleasant’ employees who work at the border and refuse to give me anything longer than a 3 month Visa. Thanks for making my life easier.
I read a really well written article in the NYT yesterday and I couldn’t help but think, “That dude has a pretty sweet job”.
Cada loco con su tema
An advantage of South American countries is all the soccer games on tv. Today is day 2 of the Eurocup and I’m hoping Ronaldo breaks his leg so Germany can pull through with a win. My cocky students, of course, want another shot at the champ and eagerly chose Spain because ‘well they won it last year so…’ I’ll take that bet.
One of my students yesterday was talking about hookers (yes, as in prostitutes) and another student asked him what a hooker was. He told him that it was something you used when you fish. To which student #2 responded “Oh, hookers! Ya, I use them all the time, but sometimes they break and I have to get new ones”. <– I hate when that happens.
Maca, what keeps me going for those 8 hour Saturday classes
WEEEEW CHELSEA!! After being stuck in class all day, at 4:20 I made a mad dash for the door and into the nearest tienda to catch Drogba sink the last shoot-out goal for the win. My students eagerly accept bets with me because, “You’re American, what do you know about soccer?” But come Monday, I’ll not only get to enjoy my pockets full of soles, but also the look of regret in my students eyes knowing that next time, they’ll think twice about betting on a German team.
Soccer / Fútbol
Me:I'm excited for some soccer this afternoon
Student:It's called 'Fútbol'
Me:Not in America kid
America renaming Europe's most popular sport. TFM.