Lovers in Lima

During much of my people-watching, I couldn't help but notice the abundance of couples everywhere! Of all kinds and all ages. Parks are apparently a place designated for couples to go hang out and enjoy each other's company. But even just walking around, I saw parents holding hands while their kids ran ahead, an elderly man take his wife for a spin on the dance floor, teens hanging out on benches embracing one another... I could go on. The display of affection among couples really struck me here. Even just the simple gesture of hand-holding was much more prevalent than in the U.S. There is such a feeling of romance in this city I didn't expect and it was so lovely. I might even call Lima the "Paris of South America" (or atleast of Peru) if I'd been to other countries in SA which I haven't... yet!

People Watching

Below are some shots I snapped of Lima's citizens throughout the trip. I really enjoy taking pictures of people, whether I ask permission or not, because I think it's very telling of the culture and place you're in. Plus, people watching is one of my favorite things to do. Here you get a glimpse into the wide variety of what I saw. Happy people watching!

Llamas in Lima

coolest alpaca ever (fake of course)

One of the things I was most excited about in going to Peru was the fact that it is the native land of llamas and alpacas. Llamas are one my favorite animals and the idea of seeing one in its natural setting just tickles me pink! I'm not sure why, but I think it started back in 7th grade when my English teacher and field hockey coach had this weird llama obsession that somehow rubbed off on me. I'd seen a few llama farms in the Pennsylvania countryside, but this was a whole other ball game.

When I arrived in Peru, I was informed that llamas are not easily found in Lima, but rather in Cuzco where Machu Picchu and the mountains are. However, I refused to believe there are NO llamas in Lima and thus was determined to see some before I left (without taking a trip to the zoo). Thanks to Steph's friend Lori, she knew of this Huaca- an ancient ruin site of the Incas- where they had llamas and some other farm animals. So we ventured to the Huaca and I got my llama fix. Below are some pictures of the ruins, the workers who worked on restoring them, and of course the stars of the show. I can't quite explain it, but they're just funny-looking animals, and they make me laugh. It's just something in their faces, how they show expressions, even how they sit cracks me up. Hope they bring a smile to your face like they do mine.

me & steph

taking a break...

Guinea Pigs- Cuy- are eaten here. I didn't try it though.

Coca plant- though Peru is a country that does not use it for drugs.

making faces...

Ceviche in Peru: check.

The other day, Stephany, Ximena, and I treated ourselves to a lovely girls lunch at La Mar in Miraflores. We figured it'd be worth going to a nice place known for their Ceviche to get our fix. The banana and sweet potato chips (chifles) that were brought to the table with various yummy sauces definitely were a hit. Our waiter was kind enough to bring us a second bucket full since we attacked them the second we sat down.


Then the Ceviche arrived. It was indeed delicious, though a bit too spicy for Steph and myself. We were chugging our water in between bites and didn't realize we could've requested the flavor to be toned down a bit since we have sensitive tongues. After getting our fix at La Mar, we wandered around and did some afternoon shopping. It wasn't until the next morning that we realized the spicy Ceviche wasn't going to let us off the hook that easy. So, we learned: in the future, when consuming very spicy food, absorb it with something starchy or of stronger substance than just corn and sweet potato. Otherwise it doesn't turn out too pretty on the other side.

Cafe Time

While Stephany, Ximena, and I were enjoying an afternoon cafe y postres (coffee and sweets) at the lovely San Antonio, I couldn't help but notice this woman. She is the epitome of relaxed, casual chic to me. She's one of the few people I've seen since I've been here that has style and dresses well. There aren't too many people worth stopping to take their photo as there is a lot of mass-production of what is popular so nothing too unique or attention-grabbing. I felt a bit paparazzi-esque snapping her photo, but as you can see, she probably didn't even notice. I love how she and the two men she's with are just simply enjoying finishing their red wine on a warm, sunny afternoon. This is Lima: laid back, relaxed, and all about Almuerzo (lunch).

Oh, and this chick is pretty cool too. Here's Stephany and her chill, retro style... before the pastries disappeared.