Cool Cuzco

Before I move onto our trip to Buenos Aires and Santiago, I thought I would write a bit about Cuzco, Peru. Up until now, this city has been my favorite. Cuzco is located high in the Andes at about 12,000 ft. which makes for a very cool climate. Its a bustling cultural center among the ancient ruins of the Incan empire and the historical sites of the Spanish conquistadors. Cathedrals are built with Incan stones, and an Incan temple's ruins can be seen as the foundation for the Dominican monestary.

The city also boasts a European feel, no doubt of Spanish influence. The streets remain cobblestone in the center and most buildings have terraces. The views are also spectacular because of the hills. From our hostel window we could see little children practicing cultural dance in a square below; and the music from wind instruments carried up to our window as well.

Of course, along with the hagglers and nagging sellers of post-cards and finger puppets came many fabulous locals who sold tapestries and works of art. Many women carried bundles on their backs and wore local dress. Hats depict various areas of Peru, and although we never were able to tell which was which, it was interesting to note.

We spent a few days there in October, both before and after our hiking trips in the Andes and the Amazon. There was a lot to do and see, and I would certainly go back if I could. We spent some time in the artisan market, tasting the local dishes and finding great meals, the best one was only 12 soles for 2, which is equal to about $4, and visiting the Cathedrals. Just walking up the streets was a challenge at times because of altitude and the sheer fact that they were so steep.

Here are some photos for you:






Before I left for the trip, my dad asked me if I'd look out for evidence of large companies taking over business or negatively affecting locals' lives. Of course, this was due to his recent reading of Confessions of an Economic Hitman. Regardless of reason, and partially due to the fact that I'm interested in organic farming and the use of pesticides, I thought it was interesting that one of the only factories in Cuzco is a pesticide plant. Most of the other industries have left, and the existence of the pesticide company means that most of the local farmers use them. We noticed a large number of ads for them around the city. I couldn't resist mentioning this because it contrasts with the way of farming used by the Incas themselves, who were really good at using the climate and landscape to their advantage. (They obviously didn't have pesticides and used terrace farming, in circular patterns when possible. One theory for this is to help with irrigation.)
Anyway, it was an intersting sidenote. One for you, dad!