Peruanita Bonita

Cajamarca might actually win as my favorite city in Peru, rivaling for my affection with Arequipa. Nestled within the extremeties of the Andean highlands, this city is known for being the last Incan stronghold before the Spanish conquest. The Battle of Cajamarca marks the end of one of the most interesting civilazations in human history. And the Spanish didn't hold back on marking the legacy of their conquest-- there are so many churches here, I feel like I'm in Italy or something. The churches are absolutely beautiful. There are two churches around the Plaza de Armas, or main square. The Iglesia San Francisco has stained glass windows that are illuminated at night-- so stunning. I really can't describe it and my camera will never do it justice.

Beig so close to the Andean highlands comes with some serious perks. The city is known well for its cheese and dairy products, and also chocolate. Subsequently, it is known for having many pastelerias, or bakieries, filled with mouth-watering sweet treats. Tomorrow, my British friend Sophie and I are going to do some serious sugar diving.

But really, tonight was one of the highlights of my trip in South America so far. I have been in Peru for almost two months-- I just love it so much, it's so hard to part with. The people in Peru are so kind, warm, laid back, and happy. And the food is just incredible.

Sophie and I went to a bar called "Usha Usha". I honestly just went to accompany Sophie, and I was expecting the usual gringified nonsense (loud music, drunk dudes, and overpriced everything). However, this place totally blew my expectations out of the water... as soon as we walked in we were welcomed by congenial surroundings, soft lighting, various South American artwork on the walls, and a huge poster of Mr. Che himself. Also the owner, Jamie, greeted us warmly and loudly. The bar was basically just five South American dudes hanging out over a bottle of wine. Each of them had an instrument, and they went through ballads and traditional folk music, some in Quechua, Spanish and Guarani. The songs were so tranquil and lovely,and performed with sincerity. I understood so little of the words, but the music spoke to me so clearly. There was a song about dreams, another about the raven warning of dying love, and others celebrating the strength of hope. Jaime and his friends toasted respectfully to us, and he told us about the different musical instruments used by the northern Peruvians in pre-Incan times. As you can see, I've completely fallen for Peru. It's so rich in history, culture, nature and most saliently, spirit.

Tonight reminds me of why I need to travel. Yes, need-- travel for me is not a choice. I can't imagine living a life without learning as much as I can about the world and our common humanity. The scenery is gorgeous, but really connecting with people is the most fulfilling aspect of traveling, more gorgeous than any glowing mountain or crystal clear lake. They say that the more you travel, the more you realize that people are so similar, in a beautiful way. And there is so much strength in this understanding, I truly wish that you can experience this also...