It has officially been (a little over) one week since I've come to Peru! I am learning so much and wanted to share my thoughts and experiences thus far...
More Culture Shocks!
1. Stray dogs are everywhere. I see upwards of 10 dogs on my 15 minute walk to school alone. I'm used to dogs being pets, so as a dog-lover this is especially odd to me. These dogs grew up on the streets and are not nice. You cannot touch them or even walk near them. If you see a dog laying on the sidewalk you should cross the street. Many dogs have rabies and are dangerous. In the city, they are more accustomed to people and (generally) will not attack. However, if you on a more rural road and see a dog, slowly back away; it will attack you.
2. Taxis are anywhere and any car is a taxi. As you walk down the street, you will constantly be honked at by cars who want to serve as your taxi. They will slow down as they get close to you and honk. Coming from a country where you hail your taxi, it is odd to have the taxis hail you.
3. The walls are thin! Everywhere I have been thus far has had fairly thin walls in that I can hear everyone and everything. This isn't much of a problem during the day, but at night, I can't sleep between the constant honking and whistles, and dog fights.
Visiting San Pedro Market
I recently toured the San Pedro Market and it was beautiful! It is bustling and filled with everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. It is indoors and it can get pretty warm. Our guide informed us that many of the cool items for purchase are actually imported from China. Should you want something more authentic, go to the Sacred Valley. In addition to the souvenirs, there were restaurants, farmer's markets, fresh meats, and fresh flowers. Check out the photo gallery below!
Museums
The same day I visited San Pedro Market, I went to two monasteries and Qorikancha. Learning, seeing, and touching history is an indescribable experience. Entrance to the sites was cheap (about S./8), and definitely worth it. To see Spanish courtyards, Modern architecture on top of Inca foundations, and walk in such sacred places is highly recommended. Furthermore, the sites are all in walking distance of each other and the Plaza de Armas. Click through the gallery below!
After visiting these sites, I walked throughout Cusco (about and hour) back to my house. In the heart of the city, with three other girls, I felt reasonably safe. I highly recommend the walk in place of taxis; you get to see so much of authentic life, murals, and more.
Thank for Reading!
XX, Didi
Comments