| Subject: Re: Peru |
|
re the peru line, i know that a cuzco/mp trip is
plenty to occupy one vacation, but i would also like
to put a plug in for other cites in peru. i lived
there for a year and everyone who came to visit me
wanted to go straight up to cuzco--but when i was able
to talk a few into other areas, they resulted with
success. i particularly recommend the colca canyon.
the anchor city for this trek would be arequipa, which
is nowhere near as overwhelming as lima. in the colca,
there are beautiful hikes and great small towns. in
terms of other mountain region places to visit, i fell
in love with ayacucho (we went around easter, when it
is in peak festival season), however, i think that it
may not be as safe as other cities right now, given a
resurgence in sendero luminoso activity, something to
check on. i have a particular fondness for the coastal
desert south of lima, chincha and this little town
called el carmen are the seat of afro-peruvian
culture. peru is an incredible country and so much
variety, lots to see beyond cuzco cuzco.
in any case, you really can't avoid interesting places! best, jeannine |