Thousands of Years of Peruvian Culture and Not an Inca in Sight

Ex-Palacio Tschudi, Chimu City of Chan Chan,Trujillo
This entry is part 6 of 12 in the series Peru

Mention Peru and most people immediately think Inca. The iconic image of Machu Picchu‘s mystical ruins has invaded our collective psyche to such a degree that we tend to associate the country solely with the ancient Inca culture. Unquestionably, the Incas were a force to be reckoned with but they were by no means the … Read more

Where to Stay, Where to Eat, and What to See in and Around Cusco, Peru

Greens Restaurant in Cusco Peru offers lots of vegetarian options
This entry is part 6 of 12 in the series Peru

Cusco Peru was one of the highlights of my three months in Ecuador and Peru, but it took me a few days to ferret out the best things to see and do, as well as the best places to stay and eat, so I wanted to share what I discovered to help others who may … Read more

The Search for Culture in Cusco, Peru

Quechua women on steps of Sato Domingo Church in Cusco, Peru pose for photos
This entry is part 5 of 12 in the series Peru

Three Quechua women sitting on the steps of the Qorikancha Inca Temple smiled broadly and motioned me over. They quickly arranged their vibrant traditional costumes and struck an adorable pose, complete with infant and baby lamb. “Cuanto?” I asked suspiciously. How much? “Lo que quieres,” they answered. Whatever you like. My instincts screamed “NO” but … Read more

Machu Picchu, Not-So-Lost City of the Inca Empire

Late afternoon view of Machu Picchu Citadel as clouds part and sun breaks through
This entry is part 4 of 12 in the series Peru

The day I had dreamed about for much of my life – visiting the Lost City of the Incas – finally arrived. Twitching with excitement, I climbed out of bed and watched the cloud forest emerge from inky blackness, hoping for sunny skies. An hour later it was clear my wishes were not to be … Read more

Two Days of Heaven at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

My room at the Inkaterra overlooked lush gardens where tropical birds flitted
This entry is part 3 of 12 in the series Peru

I crossed a footbridge over a small tributary of the Vilcanota River and pierced an invisible veil. Leaving behind the sad little town of Machu Picchu Pueblo, devoid of trees and littered with broken down hostels and pizza pubs, I stepped onto the exquisite grounds of Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, where brilliant hummingbirds flitted … Read more