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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Lima

Pictures of Lima, Peru before landing. Just for the record, Southern Peru has a better climate. 

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More from MP in Peru

No big deal, just one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the world. WHAT’S UP MACHU PICCHU!?!

And just for kicks, I thought I’d whip out ‘The Easterner’ and give it a read seeing as how I was so bored. Proud to be an Eagle?

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Peru Rail

These are from Machu Picchu Pueblo, the little town that sits about 30 minutes from MP. Good times…

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Urubamba

And this is Urubamba. Lovely day here in Peru. Machu PIcchu mñn

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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.

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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

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BOOM

2 days left in Arequipa and I’ve already secured a job as an ESL teacher in China starting in May. Damn it feels good to be a gangsta. 

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Ceviche from El Captian

The Cardiologists I tutor took me out for ceviche today. I can’t even begin to explain how delicious this stuff is.

Courtesy of ‘El Capitan’

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Fio

This is my friend and struggling English student, Fio. She’s a nurse at the heart clinic and for the life of her, cannot pronounce words with ‘th’ in them. 

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Ceviche

Peruvian Ceviche: Nothing quite like it

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Turn Off the TV

Truth.

As I count down my 10 days left until Cuzco, I get more and more excited. I’ll miss Arequipa, but at the same time, it will be nice to return back to the States where I can finally get my hands on all of the things of which I’ve so often said, “I wish Peru had _______”.  

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Fancy Lunch

My buddy is visiting from Camaná, so we and some other buddies decided to go out for some real food today. Went to “La Terraza” which overlooks ‘La Plaza De Armas’ here in Arequipa. Legit.

1st pic is chicken something, I forgot the name

2nd pic is ceviche, which is always delicious with 'chelas’ (beers) 

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New Kicks

The Octagon in the gym where I train Muay Thai and some new kicks I picked up yesterday. Coincidentally, the gym mats and my ‘tavas’ match

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Doritos what?!

Every bag of Doritos I have eaten in the past month or so has come with a mini packet of Ketchup or Mustard. I don’t know if this is a world wide promotional thing, or if they are just catering to the fact that Peruvians eat their chips in the most disgusting way possible. 

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