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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Moon

It’s an oldie. These days, Misti is covered in snow and barely visible due to the fog and rain.

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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.

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Life In Arequipa, Peru

There are little hundreds of these ‘we sell everything you need from the convenience of a corner’ stores around Arequipa. You can buy gum, water, candy, nuts, you name it. After I took the picture the 2 guys looked at me weird, but at this point I’m quite used to it.

Lookout! Another picture of Misti, the prominent volcano that I can see from literally every street I walk down. Taught my students the slang word “Shucks” and realized that I only use it sarcastically. To be frank, I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone say “Shucks” sincerely.

Shout-out today goes to Ratemystudyabroad.com! Quite an honor to be the weeks featured blogger on such a helpful website. Having studied abroad myself without any outside information, I would highly recommend this website unless you’re a, “Ah I prefer to wing it” type of person. Thanks again and good luck to: http://www.ratemystudyabroad.com/ !

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Woke up at 5:30 this morning for absolutely no reason, or it could have been because of the rooster(s), and finally got a glimpse at Misti, the volcano here In Arequipa. By 10, the sun is shining and not a cloud in the sky. It’s a trip; right now it feels like summer, but as we approach June/July, it’s only going to get colder. And by cold I mean not 75-80 degrees on a daily basis.

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Black market is awesome, despite the fact that they think you’re kidding when you ask for a pair of size 12 shoes. But I did have luck buying a new keychain, a ‘manopla’, for $3. “Misti”, the volcano, was taken from my roof, and during the rainy season in which I am currently in, it’s rare to get a clear view.