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AN INSIDER ’ S GUIDE TO PERU
With Peru being well above sea level , the most difficult part of my trip was getting used to the elevation . I found that the prescription pills I had brought , along with the consumption of cocoa leaves , to be helpful , and aided me in acclimatizing to the country .
Compared to other countries I have traveled to , I found the clothes , jewelry and dyes made from the local crops to be some of the most amazing I have come across . These are the items that inspire me , and it is this inspiration that I want to bring back to my clients . In fact , it was the markets and bazaars of Peru that have inspired my newest event that will debut in the fall at J . Landa in Rice Village .
Favorite sight : By far , Machu Picchu . A close second are the Incan and pre-Incan ruin sites around Cusco . These complete the historical narrative of a powerful people . Because of our party size , we passed on the four-day Inca hike to Machu . But based on the feedback , if you have the time , it ’ s probably the most experiential way to arrive at this truly awe-inspiring place .
Favorite food : We loved the ceviche de pescado ! It was served tossed with a large Peruvian white corn called choclo . The choclo is also served steamed on the cob as street food pared with local queso . If you happen upon a local selling choclo , don ’ t pass on it .
Favorite hotel / lodging : Tambo del Inca – a Luxury Collection Hotel by Starwood located in Urubamba . Arriving late in the night after a winding descent into the sacred Valley ( Valle Sagrado ), Tambo greeted us with a roaring fireplace amidst a cocoon of beautifully woven alpaca throws and pillows . The rooms are as sophisticated as any in which we ’ ve stayed , and the staff is impeccably trained and didn ’ t miss a beat . The wine list in the cavernous dining room proved a joyous tromp through the best vineyards of South America .
Local Bazaar
Machu Picchu
Do not miss : Don ’ t skip Cusco . Even though the high altitude can be intimidating , this ancient city is an absolute tapestry of culture , food , shopping , historic sites and , of course , pisco sours . Pop into the Rumi Bar at the Palacio del Inka – Plazoleta Santo Domingo 259 , Cusco , Peru .
Insider tip : Find a great guide with a passion and knowledge of the local culture . The Andean people are warm and inviting . Don ’ t pass on the local experiences . If someone offers you a chicharone the size of your head , give it a try . You won ’ t be disappointed .
Paracas Beach
72 L O C A L | september 16