¿Cuanto cuesta irme a _(fill in the blank)___?” This is what you should always ask before getting into any taxi especially in Peru. Now, it is widely understood that a cab fare around the centro should only cost 3 soles maximum but once you get outside the main neighborhoods, the prices goes up a sol or two. A cab ride, even to the farthest neighborhood should only cost 6 soles maximum. As a resident of Cusco for over a year and half now I feel like I have a good grasp on how to deal with taxi drivers. Here is my advice.. [Continue reading...]

I sat down in Plaza Mayor observing the beauty of Lima and its people. I saw many people with their friends or family, as well as other tourists exploring the sites. There was a lot of bustling going on in the streets and plenty of street vendors trying to earn a little money. Yet, when I sat down I felt reminded of my travels in Europe and began ruminating about how the symbolism of this colonial architecture could impact the general Peruvian psyche. [Continue reading...]

I have just arrived in Lima to start working on this blog with Karikuy. I had a long flight before arrival and have felt jet lag more than usual. However, I am incredibly happy to be here and the colorful atmosphere I observed while driving from the airport only fueled my excitement and energy. Additionally, I have been looking through many wonderful Peru guide books* and have been completely blown away by the amount of travel options! Since I am new to this organization and blog, I believe a more formal introduction is due. [Continue reading...]

If you are looking to travel abroad to Peru or anywhere else in Latin America to learn, intern or volunteer, then you want to check out www.LIVFund.org. LIVFund is a brand new non-profit organization that supports learn, intern and volunteer initiatives in Latin America through the LIVFund Scholarship. This unique funding opportunity allows you to put the money you are awarded towards the abroad program of your choice. You can even design your own program if you’d like as LIVFund also supports people who prefer to experience Latin America “indie” style. Basically, if you are over the age of 18 and have plans to learn, intern or volunteer abroad in one of the following countries for at least one [1] week, you are eligible to apply. Gap year students, that means you too! [Continue reading...]

While my dad and I unfortunately didn’t have the time or the energy to hike the famed 4-day Inca Trail to get to Machu Picchu, we chose an equally exciting way to get there; the Sacred Valley Tour. Instead going to Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu) directly from Cuzco via train, we drove for several hours through the mountains to small town of Ollantaytambo where we boarded the train. Along the way, we stopped at three archaeological sites and drove by several more that were nestled away on the hillsides. It is a beautifully scenic and enjoyable way to start the journey to Machu Picchu, and I highly recommend it! . [Continue reading...]