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Lori goes to Peru
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  • Lori B

Lori goes to Peru

Come along with me! Let’s go! Read more
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  • Trip start
    May 30, 2026
  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Lover's Park
    Lock wall21$1 to weigh yourself1Door for tall people1Printing press1Ceiling in monasteryMonastery choir chairsMonastery library. The smell is divine in this room.1Catacombs1CatacombsLast supper with cui (guinea pig)1Ceviche!1Bringing this very bag of cocoa beans home to roast

    Day 1.

    May 31 in Peru ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    Gorgeous day. Temperature, culture, and flavors.
    Some of my favorite things today. Romantic statues by the sea, museums , monasteries, catacombs, old churches, walled cities, ceviche, dancing…. Firsts. Can life get any better?!Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
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    Day 1 more.

    May 31 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    And some videos. To hear the language and enjoy the dancing. The rotisserie chicken is marinated in coca-cola and soy sauce (have not tried it yet- but wait). Also, still to try…….the guinea pig (cui), which according to the famous “last supper” painting at the cathedral, was a dish for the disciples (note the meat on the plate). And of course, tired me. Resting with the winning angel. And I will need to rest as there are 3,000 varieties of potatoes to try here.Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    1On our way..
    I hope just getting close makes me wiserCandelabra of ParacasJesús' profile1My PeguinRed footed boobyPregnant momma taking a rest.Mr. FishermanThank you Mr. Fisherman for supplying the factory!Peruvian TukTuks1Found it!

    Day 2- Paracas

    June 1 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    Big news today…..
    Started early to take a boat ride to the “Galapagos of Peru” to find my penguin in Peru.

    Oh, and also to see the “candelabra” artistically drawn around 600-200 BC.

    Then to see the sea lions, cormorant commune, red-footed Peruvian booby, and the penguins!

    Pay special attention to the photo with the pass through cave. Local legend is that you see the profile of Jesus looking down at the sea. And on the return, I met the man of my dreams. Mr. Fisherman, who caught the fish for my ceviche and then was resting barefoot and without a care in the world, as the pelicans snacked around him. What a blessing to have your work done and find peace being still as the world buzzes around you. Just a head nod and toe wiggle and back to rest. And I shall now do the same as we head to try to surf on the sand dunes…. Stay tuned for Lori’s scrapes and bruises about to happen. lol.

    And I had the best seat mate, friend, and joyful celebrant in Luis today helping me find that penguin!

    Info on the candelabra:

    The Paracas Candelabra (also known as the Candelabra of the Andes) is a massive prehistoric geoglyph etched into a coastal hillside in the Paracas National Reserve, Peru. Measuring roughly 600 feet (180 m) tall, it features a bulbous three-pronged design that is clearly visible from up to 12 miles out at sea.Key Details & MysteriesLocation: Northern face of the Paracas Peninsula at Pisco Bay.Age & Origin: Pottery discovered around the site has been radiocarbon-dated to roughly 200 BCE, linking it to the ancient Paracas culture. However, the exact age and creator remain a mystery.Design: It is carved about 2 feet (60 cm) deep into the sandy soil and reinforced with stones.Prominent TheoriesBecause there are no definitive written records, historians and archaeologists have proposed several theories about its purpose:Navigational Beacon: Its sheer size and vantage point make it a perfect landmark for ancient sailors navigating the Peruvian coastline.Religious Symbolism: Some researchers believe the trident shape represents the staff of the Incan creator god Viracocha.Ritual Significance: Others suggest it represents the San Pedro cactus or a local hallucinogenic plant, possibly acting as a beacon for people participating in ancient ceremonies.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    1"Dry soup"211

    Day 2 - part 2

    June 1 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    Little break for lunch then a Pisco winery tour. I ordered the soup with the noodles. When it arrived, I asked where the liquid was. They explained to me that it is a special “dry” soup…. Hmmmm
    That was a first.. Never tasted dry soup before….

    Now on to the distilled wine made the original way since 1860. Same equipment; same methods.

    Off to the giant sand dunes to ski! Wow. Hard to see how steep they are in the pictures. But they are San Francisco street or ski run Streep!

    When I say “ski” I mean lay on a snow board. lol.

    But guess what?!! I did not break a leg! And it was fun! I laughed the entire time we were in the buggy. Then took a break and laid on top.

    Off to Nasca! First time I’ve ever wanted to see a line…. Bad joke!

    And finally, I made a new friend and got a besito to go!    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler

    Sand. Sand. Sand. More sand.

    June 1 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 26 °C

    So, after two showers and three ear washes, I might regret doing the demo on how to get down a steep hill without walking on a troubled knee. But it worked. We all got down. Some of us a little more dizzy than others. Memories……Btw, Peruvian sand doesn’t taste too bad. Little gritty, but not salty at all….
    And still….no broken leg!

    Night. In nasca and ready for tomorrow.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    11113

    Day 3. The lines!!!!!

    June 2 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

    Today was for the Nasca lines.

    But, before we go to the lines…. I must test the Coriolis theory that water swirls in a different direction as it goes down a drain.
    Hmm…. It didn’t really swirl. Kind of just jiggled down. Will keep testing with different sinks and toilets.

    Note that I am starting my day clean of sand and ready for a flight.

    This is our plane. I understand that it will gently roll back and forth so each side can see the lines and some can use the “bags”…also a before picture….

    And here are some of the amazing lines…. And a cheat sheet with the names.

    The first picture is of Nasca lines currently being made next to the ancient ones. I liked the juxtaposition of old and new man made lines.

    There is always a reason it seems to make lines. And both are impressive in their own way.

    To give you some perspective, the astronaut is 32 meters high. That is the approximate height of a 10 story building. Wow.

    At the end of the day we we were exhilarated and had wind blown faces but a gorgeous drive along the coast! See you tomorrow.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    2
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    Day 4- Arequipa (pt 1)

    June 3 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    Wow! What a beautiful city. It’s easy to know you increased in altitude. Little tip, don’t try to use a liquid eyeliner as it explodes black ink all over you when you take the cap off.

    Started the day with the recommended coca leaf tea. Not bad, and it works!

    First thing to do is go to the local market. I’m on a quest to eat new fruits and find the 3,000 varieties of potatoes. You can see I tried…. How does one chose out o

    Now to go see a monastery and then a convent. Lovely places….

    After that, time to eat something new and have a “first”.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    1
    1Laundry washing station1

    Day 4 (pt 2)

    June 3 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    So many gorgeous churches here. This is a lovely cathedral by the town square where I will end my day doing something fun.

    But first… to the nunnery. One of many UNESCO heritage buildings surrounding us. Lovely place. Many pieces of art on the walls, ceilings, etc. Not sure I understand what the angels are doing in one… but they seem happy. Could be that one of them ran off with the man’s beer…? M

    Now dinner! Alpaca. When you nmgo to Peru, it’s a must… delicious. It’s like filet mignon. Very tasty. And the potatoes!!!! Thank you, Peru.

    So, not to end the day just eating the alpaca, I went on a quest for baby alpaca yarn…. How could I not?! Got some!! Who needs a scarf?!
    They actually keep the alpacas here and, instead of eating them, they shear them, spin and dye the wool, and weave gorgeous objects.

    After such a bountiful day, my friend, Luis, and I decided we needed to pass on some joy. So we purchased four toys to randomly give to children. Best way for me to end the day!! Here is one mother talking to us in the Quechua language with Spanish sprinkled in.

    Handing out toys in the park with Luis was like a glass of champagne. Bubbly and joyful and festive. Perfect end to a delightful day that was filled with joy.

    Thank you, Peru.

    Headed to Lake Titicaca tomorrow. Guess I will need more tea…. Night.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    1
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    Day 5- Titicaca here we come!

    June 4 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    Tonight I am simply going to explain the fun pictures. Early day tomorrow on the lake. I’m sure I will have much more to share from the lake.

    Woke up with a slight headache from the altitude, but ready to go higher. Arid but beautiful drive up some windy and roads with steep drop-offs. Snow on the mountains and volcanos and many wild pack animals and birds along the way.

    You will see that we decided to pay the toll as they must be very strict on toll skipping here.

    Turns out we are on the Volcano highway. Three in clear view. You can see me standing in front of all three when we stopped for lunch. I did not have cuy yet; but this is what they look like before they are cooked.

    And for dessert, the famous cheese ice cream with cinnamon. Yum!!

    Now off to the reason the town is called the “white city”. The only
    Quarry of sillar (volcanic petrified ash) is here. 26 families are allowed to harvest the white stone for the construction of the white buildings. All by hand. The stone is strong and heavy, but lighter than cement as it is porous. Note the demonstration. Many carvings from the stone, so I had to play on them; you know me. The female on a burrow is the traditional mill woman. Go Peru!!

    Yikes! This is high. It’s in meters. The air is getting thin. Time to stop again for coca tea; but this time with all of the other herbs added that “will help” with the altitude. You will see the names in the short video. In case it doesn’t work, we have oxygen. See Luis doing a demo with our guide. Hope I don’t need it. But I have my canister, just in case.

    Look at the cute llamas, alpacas, and vicunas. They are everywhere as we are driving through a preserve for the vicuñas.
    They are on the ground and on the road as you can see. Adorable.

    And again, here are some working women that spoke with us in their native language. The two women are explaining that they are washing the potatoes for the alpaca to eat. The woman with the baby is a new mother and brought her baby to work with her. Lovely.

    And lastly, just arrived at Puna which sits on the rim of Lake Titicaca. Wow! It’s cold and the air is thin. Was informed that tonight will be hard to sleep, but the hotel has oxygen if you need it and look at my snack bag; expanding so much it might burst. lol.

    I think I will skip the snack and try to get some sleep for an early morning.

    Fascinating day.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    1

    Day 6- Lake Titicaca (pt1)

    June 5 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 0 °C

    Amazing! Highest lake in the world! It was chilly and gorgeous. I am dressed in layers with another new hat made of alpaca to keep me warm.
    Started with a hotel view of the sunrise over the tip of Lake Titicaca (Titicaca) and a lovely (long) boat ride out to the floating homes of the Uro people . The main income source for the occupants (1,200-2,000 on 120 islands) is tourism and fishing. Thus, when you arrive, you check in with their authorities and are assigned an island so that visitors rotate between all islands. Very organized and fair system. Once on a floating island, you are greeted by the families that live there. They explain the history and process and charm you with their humbleness, hospitality, beauty, and textiles to sell. This system of commerce started when the first Protestant missionaries (SDA -1958, followed much later by Mormon) found them impoverished and isolated and taught them to sell handcrafts to visitors to improve their conditions….the tradition continues. While the men fish and attend to the Totora reed layers of their foundations, the women embroider traditional pictorial stories onto hand-woven alpaca and sheep cloth. And no one is leaving the island without something.

    I cannot explain how fascinating the system is. Because they don’t live on land and are in a National Reserve, they don’t pay taxes. They have solar power, and each island has a boat made of reeds to get to the mainland for goods, etc. One floating island holds 4-6 families and can last for around 20 years.
    There are also three churches on their own floating islands, SDA, Mormon, and Catholic. Other than for modern goods or advanced education, the Uro people can function within their traditions and floating communities much like they have for 600 years. It was a treat to see and experience this amazing culture and systems of living.

    Next, a 45-minute boat ride to a natural island called Tequila, also in Lake Titicaca.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    X marks the spot. So i stood on it. Why not?!Bird poo that looks like a face. Yep..1

    Lake Titicaca- part 2

    June 5 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 9 °C

    This lake is huge! What a gorgeous boat ride to Tequila, with views of both Peru and Bolivia. The lake toggles between both countries. And yes, even the Uros people would need a passport to cross the lake between countries. Another reason to anchor your home. There are Peruvians and Bolivians on the same lake.

    Tequile island is spectacular.
    The roughly 2,200 Quechua-speaking residents (Taquileños) live strictly by the ancient Inca moral code: Ama sua, ama llulla, amaquela (do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy). Due to this, the island has no police force and virtually no crime. What fine ideas!

    They also use a social dress code to distinguish married men and women from single ones. Their marriage laws also follow the Inca tradition of requiring couples to live together for a minimum of 6 months to a maximum of 2 years before marriage. If the couple has not married within the 2 years, they must separate and end the relationship, as they are considered not compatible.
    All of the men fish and knit. The women weave and sell handcrafts. You can tell if a man is married by the color of a unique hat worn to the side and holding coca leaves to exchange with others as a form of greeting. The single women cover their face with their black poncho, while the married women can show their faces. Also, the tassels on the ponchos are yellow and orange vs. darker red, blue, and purple.

    When a woman has decided to marry her companion, she weaves a strong, wide belt for her intended that incorporates her hair to show devotion and sacrifice to her intended. The belt provides support for his back as he tills the fields, showing a cooperative system of sharing the workload. The women and men tend to the land together with the babies held on the mothers’ backs. Beautiful traditions. And very symbolic.

    The primary religion is a unique blend of Catholicism and traditional Andean spiritualism (religious syncretism), which includes a great deal of respect and sanctity to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Qutamama (Mother Water).

    In the many the pictures you will see the landscape, potato harvesting, locals, yarn spinning, the marriage hat, my quinoa soup, a local demonstrating how the chukjo plant is used as a soap for cleaning everything from wool to bodies with its saponin suds, some fun stones in the walking road which traverses the island, and the peaceful animals of Tequile. And back in Puño, some shots from the local museum. The bulls are what the locals give to newlyweds to place on their roof as a symbol of protection, luck, and the couple sharing work together with strength in their new home. I am tempted to buy a pair tomorrow in Cusco, even if I am single. My home should be protected too! LOL. Lastly, I am just bragging that I made it two days and did not “touch the button”……Gorgeous and plentiful day.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    chimboya MoutainIt's high up here! CieloNice herd of alpacaBest smelling rose!Wall with steps build by the Incas 600 yrs agoAqueduct built by the Incas; still functioningPart of Inca aquaduct to townDepiction of the Inca templeCenter wall of temple remainsGraduated windowsWall construction.The stone work!The Inca way road. Straight as an arrow and still in useOutside columnsColumnStorage silo

    Off to Cusco… goodbye Puño.

    June 6 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 10 °C

    On the road again… and what a beautiful road. Snow-topped mountains, mid-high green hills, valleys of stone walls fencing in gentle domesticated animals; tended to by local shepherds. Add in an occasional field of haystacks next to a lake or river with cows, and you just can’t get any better than this. Life….

    And we are going higher. Oh my, indeed the air is getting thinner and Lori is getting a bit dizzy. Suave, suave, Lori. Drinking lots of water and tea and pushing myself, not to continue, but to slow down. A hard challenge for me, as I want to run, jump, climb on things and blow bubbles…. But, I am appreciating the limits that less oxygen can put on a body. So suavecito it is….
    We made it to 4,335 meters or 14,223 feet, which is 2.7 miles above sea level. And to think I got a nosebleed in Denver. 1 mile is nothing now! lol. The mountain with snow behind me is called Chimboya and was sacred to the Incas and remains sacred today. Many people leave three coca leaves or other offerings here for blessings and gratitude. I did it and wished a blessing for all of us and those reading this. And tons of gratitude!

    Now to where Lori could get lost for days. My first Inca temple and village ruins. Welcome to my heaven. Built by the Incas over 600 years ago with nothing but rocks for tools. Smaller rocks hitting huge stones to carve bricks that fit together without mortar. You could not pass a piece of paper through these temple rocks. Amazing. I want to stay and study the architecture and construction! Would the group miss me?

    The row by the church is so straight that around the Summer Solstice (Dec) the sun aligns perfectly with the temple row and marks the Inca year. I added a picture from the internet for demonstration.

    The aqueducts are original and still bring water to the village. Amazing. The circular buildings were actually silo-type storage. A vast number of them for a community of around 200. Life was abundant; or conquering was a profitable business….

    Yes, I took too many pictures for one page. See part 2 of my great day!    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler

    The road to Cusco- pt 2

    June 6 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C

    More details on my first Inca ruins. And I’m in love. I think I am ready to walk the Inca trail. Will start researching and consider it; but I’m motivated. And I’ve already touched it. Camino Santiago— check. Inca trail— maybe next.

    The smaller rectangle stone areas were garden beds. Again, move me in!

    And lastly, back on the road, I took this picture of gas prices. If I am doing the conversion right, it seems like a good deal. Who’s good with math?    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler

    Interesting event.

    June 6 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    I’m sure you remember that I found yarn. Well, one must have knitting needles to knit the yarn. So I went to a wool store tonight around 7 pm (dark), in Cusco, and walked in to purchase needles. When I told the staff I needed knitting needles, they sort of ushered me out saying that buying needles at night was related to witchcraft. I was a bit confused, but left without the needles. Now, knitters are a gentle and gentile group of people. Usually grandmas and me..

    So, I looked it up and saw that I must have really scared them. I now understand their expressions and concern and statement that they don’t sell them at night.

    Just had to add this educational story. I love to travel. We learn something every day. And I truly hope I didn’t scare them, I just wanted to do a little knitting with the alpaca yarn in the Andes.

    Tomorrow I will buy the needles; in the daylight.

    Update: our local tour guide confirmed today that knitting needles can only be sold from 6 am until 6 pm.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Quinoa
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    Day 9 - part 2

    June 7 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    Oh, the scenery is majestic! Enjoyable drive through the Andean Highlands to “Sacred Valley”. Many locals are out for voting and Sunday activities and in their Sunday best.

    For the agronomists out there, let me show you Moray. The Inca Empire (Tahuantinsuyo) consisted of around 40,000 nobles and a total population reaching 12,000,000 between 1527–1532. Their secret to growth: conquest, and feed eveyone. They were incredible and experimental agronomists dedicated to feeding their recruits and converting them with bounties of corn, beer, coca leaves, potatoes, and quinoa (first picture). They did experimental farming at Moray, with circular concave terraces. Each level created a microclimate enabling them to grow more lowland crops like coca leaves, avocados, tobacco, etc. Happy bellies in the belly button of the world.

    And the salt for flavoring came from the Moray salt mines; 3,000 hand-chiseled salt pools that cascade down the Sacred Valley. These salt pools have provided many colors of salt for almost 2,000 years and are a stunning site to see. And the salt is wonderful as well. Some of you will be tasting it soon!

    And now, the local textiles. We visited a local alpaca weaving center. All hand-spun yarn from tended alpacas; hand-dyed with native plants, and knit or woven into pieces of art. Yes, I am bringing a poncho to Machu Picchu. Watch for it.

    Also, enjoy the baby bundling demonstration. When she flips the baby to the front, it allows her to carry two children (one in front and one in back) while she works throughout the day. She stopped spinning to show us and then went right back to it. It was a treat to watch it all.

    The last two pictures, again, show some more potato varieties and cuys on a grill; just waiting to be tried.

    Bed now, leaving at 3 a.m. for a strenuous hike to the highest point of the trip. Stay tuned….    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Building built utilizing the original Inca stone baseOriginal Inca center1Yea, it is a fountainBulls on the roof1111Cusco from aboveWhat it looked like 600 yrs agoSacrificial stone

    Day 9- Cusco, Cusco, Cusco

    June 7 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 11 °C

    Cusco did not disappoint!

    First, I have to tell you about last night; after the brujeria… Luis and I went to the town square (video below), which was gorgeous. The homes above the town were lit up and glistening like jewels in a jewel box. This square was, and still is, the center of the town. The Incas called Cusco the “Belly Button” of the world. It was originally shaped like a Puma (“Titi”), which is a sacred animal. With the religious ruins I will show you tonight forming the head. Obviously, it has grown in the last 600 years, but the main town square still remains at the center of the town.

    After a quick dinner, we decided to just wander and get lost and explore with no direction. We saw many things. But the most impactful was when we encountered three young men by a market that asked Luis if he would buy their trinkets. When Luis declined, they asked if he could buy them something to eat from the store. So, deciding to be Santa Claus, Luis said “Go get what you want”. The boys ran through the store with wide eyes and contagious excitement as everyone watched in surprise. They picked cereal, cookies, fruit, yogurt, candies, and soda and cereal bars. They couldn’t believe what was happening. Five bags of groceries later, we got many hugs, gifts of trinkets, smiles, and effervescent thank you’s. And a beautiful new word in Quechua: (Tupananchiskama).

    Translated to Spanish: “Abrazos & bendiciones. Hasta que el mundo nos vuelva a reunir”.

    Translated to English: “Hugs and blessings. Until the world brings us together again.”

    Tomorrow is also Election Day in Peru, so like in Puerto Rico, no alcohol sales on election day; but here that starts at noon the day before and ends on Monday. Everyone must be sober and well-rested to vote.

    Now to the head of the Puma, SACSAYHUAMAN (pronounced like “sexy woman”), a sacred and religious site with 1,200 pound hand chiseled stones that had to be carried from the quarry 3k away. Then shaped with a cutting rock to perfection. You cannot pass a credit card between any of the stones. Standing near it, you feel small and amazed at the engineering and craftsmanship before wheels, tools, measuring tape, and drones.

    Just north of this temple, and making the ear of the Puma, is a cave where humans (female virgins) were sacrificed as offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth).

    This complex is still used for traditional celebrations; without any sacrifices.

    Ok, let’s keep going. We have lots more to see and enjoy.

    Last pictures are a cute alpaca and dinner in a few days (cuy). And a hill topped Jesus now overlooking the ruins of the Inca temple.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    A must before the climbLowland start1Mid way up a stop for more coca tea and the view1Vendors selling fried alpaca and hot cocoa.This man will stamp you passport for 2 sol.Tada!Tada againNew cool friends.1Look at this!

    Day 10- 7 Colored Moutains.

    June 8 in Peru ⋅ ☁️ 4 °C

    Well, well, well… I have now hiked to above 16,000 feet. It took trekking poles, a thick hoodie shirt, two coats, a scarf, gloves, leg warmers, wrist warmers, wool ear warmers, some flowers, and an oxygen stop; but I made it. It was spectacular! The scenery was majestic. Look at the snow-covered mountains adjacent to the 7 mineral-formed colored mountains! I’m a lucky girl. Incredible and worth the altitude pressure.

    My “silent sinus syndrome” seems to not be silent at high altitudes. In fact, it screamed at me and was quite obnoxious.

    In Lori fashion, I did it before I Googled. SSS and altitudes are not friends. So once up there, I took a motorcycle down to lower the pressure. Now that was exhilarating. You can imagine the switchbacks with a local driver racing through them a little faster than expected. He gets paid by the number of trips, so the faster he gets you down, the faster he gets another 50 sol. I survived it with glee. What an experience; fun and worth every bit of the nausea and crushing headache. I would happily do it again if anyone wants to!

    Tomorrow I am headed to Aquas Caliente via train.

    Then the big day tomorrow: Machu Picchu. Can’t wait. I’m ready for more.

    The last two pictures are parcha treats. The parcha here has a hard shell, is a little sweeter, and meant to be cracked open and either poured out or sucked. Delicious. Here I am putting it on top of some vanilla yogurt. Just wanted to share. Food here is amazing. Hoping to get the cuy very soon.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    pisco Terraces from above
    Statue depicting Inca hugging the sacred condor, puma and snakeOf course Luis runs into friends from Luquillo in the middle of Pisac1The view from the climbAgricultural terracesGrain storage and protectionCave gravesLunch time. Cuy on the grillLunch on a stick. A Peruvian pinchoRoasted CuyAnd they said the brains were the best partDessert at lunch- candied tomatoCelebrating my birthday and end of surgeries1Lori's happy dance

    Day 11 - on the way to Aqua Caliente

    June 9 in Peru ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C

    Bear with me…..It was an amazing day. We have three parts of pictures. - We started outside Cusco in Pisco, which is home to 15th-century Inca agricultural terraces and bathhouses. It is also home to the largest cliffside cemetery in the Americas, housing more than 3,000 graves. Some of the best preserved mummies and ancient burial features have been excavated from these cliffs. You know I am in heaven….

    Then lunch… and I have to try the local guinea pig. I’ve already had alpaca many different ways. Turns out Guinea pigs are delicious. Tastes like a chicken married a duck, had a child, and grilled it over wood. That said, the guide mentioned that the head and brains are the best part. No one was willing to try it with him. But we had to have someone…….It was not bad, and I believe I left a tad bit smarter than before.

    I am here as a birthday gift to me for turning 59 and getting through two surgeries this year. Two surgeries that truly scared me and a yr that rocked my perfect world.

    A special thank you to Spencer, who never left my side, tolerated many doctor visits (even when I told him not to), hormone treatments, fainting spells, sat in surgery waiting rooms, interviewed doctors, researched labs and diagnosis, took care of an impatient patient, and is covering for me at work right now. And watching Frida. I love you, son!
    You raised me well, and you are the best human on Earth. I can never thank this man enough.

    And to all of my friends that sent lots of love, know me well, and didn’t think me crazy - I love you. You all got me here. And I hope you know I did my best to help you along my own journey. You are the best. I love you and will shout your names from the top of Machu Picchu tomorrow.

    And to Luis, who is here with me, making it even more special. We are huffing and puffing our way through the highest altitudes Peru has to offer. This is my celebration trip; so I danced. Even if I don’t know how. This is life. And life doesn’t get much better than today. Until tomorrow! Each and every day! We are each more blessed than we see. Each stronger than we think. Each more loved than we know. Eat life and eat the world. Eat the brains. Climb the mountain. Show up for life. Do everything. Life is short and amazing.

    Lori is joy shopping with you. Let’s all keep shopping for joy and love and “firsts”! Hoy!

    Someone please offer to teach me to dance!    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Any view lodge. Insane
    People climbing to get to their roomThe rooms near the skyHalfway there...At the entrance to the ruins.. hmmmm..Amazing structure - temple to the sunThe craftsman ship is beyond compareOriginal floating Incan stepsView from midway upLook at this stone workTry to put a hair through this.The knobs were to heft the rocks up with wooden levers.AmazingNiches for artJust amazingA wall in a roomAt the sun temple.The valley from aboveBenches?Sunset

    Day 11 - Part 2

    June 9 in Peru ⋅ ☁️ 11 °C

    Now what? We go to Urubamba to the fortress of Ollantaytambo, made up of a series of superimposed terraces built to guard the entrance to this part of the valley and protect it from possible invasions by the inhabitants of the jungle. The Brazilian rain Forrest is just beyond the mountains. Enjoy the pictures and captions.
    There are no words.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Just behind my head is the Incan grain storage on the mountain
    Happy girlGoing up and up and upinca soldier housingTwo grain storage buldings in mountain acrossInca buildings at the topThe valley from aboveThese ancient masons!Little higher to goThis was the beginning of the aqueducts to feed the town below.Inca aqueducts still in use by the townHome build on Inca wallInca guard dogAqueduct in use in townTown streetInca art niches in the thriving townInca aqueduct cross section2My lunch. Each home raises 20+ cuy for special occasion. The skulls are their grandparents.Shopping in local marketInca doorway still in use by the townSunset over the town1This woman is still workingThe train to Aguas Calientes. Machu Picchu base campRiding on train. We made it a PR party. Peru will never forget us!1

    Day 11 - Part 3

    June 9 in Peru ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    And the amazement continues…. We visited a typical cuy raising room in an ancient home. Note their grandparents’ skulls in the niches; very typical.

    I will forever be amazed by the architecture, craftsmanship, and spirit here. It’s almost overwhelming.

    Following the energetic train ride, Luis and I rushed (carrying our luggage) to the Ministry of Culture building. Why? Because we decided one trip to Machu Picchu isn’t enough for us. Our tickets for the main circuit 2B are tomorrow afternoon and were sold out months ago. But we want to also go to the top with circuit 1b, which is near impossible to get and booked 6 months out. It’s the one with the famous pictures. So… we read that each day, this office releases 100 tickets to people that sleep outside to be in line when they open at 6 a.m. We knew it was impossible, but we decided to try. We huffed and puffed and got there before closing at 10 p.m. And guess what?! We got 2 of the last three tickets for 9 a.m. to the top. We will go in the a.m., climb to the top, descend, then back again in the afternoon with our group to circuit 2. Might as well do it all. Time to get back in shape!!!!!! Let’s do this.

    Back at the hotel in a town that won’t sleep. The energy and excitement in this town is effervescent and exhilarating. Machu Picchu, here I come.

    See you tomorrow.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    sunscreen ready

    Machu Picchu

    June 10 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    Here now. I am speechless. There are no words. And these pictures don’t do it justice. You have to be here. It’s powerful. And magical and unexplainable. Enough said….

    This is circuit 1 b. A gorgeous hike to view from above. I go back in an hour to do circuit 2- which is the lower part and city part you see below. And yes, the sun is bright; lots of sun screen. And the ride to the site was scary- for me. I’m not a fan of steep drops and sharp corners in fast moving vehicles. Enjoy.

    More to follow as I continue. Just wow!

    The energy and magic is something to experience. I know I will cry soon. I am
    Amazed. Btw, the couple holding their hands up got engaged right above me. And I haven’t done the main circuit yet. Just wanted the morning climb to view…. Almost enough. But there can never be enough to learn.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    2
    11111

    Machu Picchu 2

    June 10 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    Nothing to say.

    But… Between circuits, I studied more about Inca culture. I decided to wear an Andean Cross to walk the second circuit. The Andean cross with steps is depicted throughout Inca structures, including Machu Picchu. It’s a symbol of past, present, and future and represents the Southern Cross. The SC is used for navigation much as we use the North Star. I have spotted it each night I could while here. I remain amazed and cannot express the grandeur and splendor of the five-mile radius of Machu Picchu. Picturesque is the best word I can use.

    And then, yet another birthday celebration night. I’m starting to think it’s a reason to dance. And so we dance. And live! Staying alive! Having fun and living in the moment. Enjoying the people and beauty around me. Till next time, Machu Picchu! See you soon.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler

    Day 13- exploring the town/ train to Cusco

    June 11 in Peru ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Today was pack time and travel on Peruvian rail back to Ollantaytambo. Then a van all the way back to Cusco for the night. But first, my friend, Luis, is experimenting with AI and turned me into an Incan princess.. what do you think?! If I can find the dress, maybe I can stay at Machu Picchu! He is so fun…

    Little free time before the train by myself. So I had some eucalyptus tea and cheese focaccia to start the day..

    Walked around and handed out more toy cars to enjoy free hugs and smiles and lots of scenery. This town has thermal springs, lots of art, and both a train and a river that run right through it.

    I stopped and got an “Inca” massage. Wow! They know how to massage. It was like a massage, yoga and chiropractic treatment all in one. Lots of stretching, being pulled, cracking, twisting, twerking and rubbing. Amazing. I think I am actually taller now.

    Along the way, I discovered this bench with Paddington bear. Wondering why, I looked it up. Fun fact…this British bear is actually from the Peruvian jungle. He was sent to live with his Aunt after an earthquake. Lots of Peruvian pride around this character. I started to notice him everywhere. I am next to the jungle. Who knew? Now I have to watch the show. Apparently in #2 he returns to Peru. Cute.

    Ok.. now the craziest and most fun train ride ever. We upgraded to the observation car, and boy was there a lot to observe. As you go into the car, women receive a flower crown to wear and men receive a hat. Hmmmm…

    Then you see a five piece band playing Peruvian songs with traditional dancers to entertain you. But then…. The band breaks out into international dancing music, lemon refreshments and pisco sours are served and it’s mandatory to dance. Eveyone must dance in the car. Without exception. So we danced. And did conga lines. And danced. Coats came off, and we all enjoyed. At one point I had a climbing dance off with one of the entertainers. Not sure what dance it was, but I just followed along…

    And it’s not over. Next, you take your seats and are entertained with a fashion show of alpaca goods. In an instant the long train ride was over and everyone was energized. Boy do they know how to make a train ride fun here.

    Finally back in Cusco and early to bed. Tomorrow is an active day, and our very last day. Enjoy.    Read more

  • Lori BLori goes to PeruTraveler
    Hmmmm... not sure what it is; but I like him
    No idea what is going on here? But lots of work went into it. Earthquake?Could not play this and I like chess. Incas va Spanish editionUnbelievable all day parade to the saints in front of the cathedralSexy saint?A platform carried in front of statue to allow for men to restNot how the men are struggling. Dedication on a warm dayDay time fireworks at the cathedral.Pre-Inca puzzle wall designed to withstand earthquakes.Spanish wall across from Inca wall. Damaged in earthquake - called the "inc"ompetent wall10 sided stonePre-Inca designed in stone wallPumaCan you find it?The snake. Do you see it?13 sided stoneInsaneFull viewThe church on top of base of temple to the sun godCeremony to the sun god held in front of original Inca sun temple; now a Catholic ChurchLady selling orange juice. Look at the peels

    Last day in Peru- part 1

    June 12 in Peru ⋅ ⛅ 7 °C

    Today was my last day in Peru. So I made the most of it and used every moment. Not sure how many steps and hills I walked today; but I think I deserve to have a “j lo" bottom. My glutes are sore. Pretty sure I covered most of Cusco today and it was a treat.

    I have captioned each picture as there is a lot to explain.

    The day started with breakfast and some unusual art. First a doll at the breakfast table, followed by a tumble of activity in a shadow box. And then the chess set; which made me sad. But let’s keep going.

    Off to the main cathedral. Today is the day of the saints in Peru so we were treated to a giant parade which started at 9 a.m. and is still going at 9 p.m. The costumes and coordination are beyond the pictures can show. It was amazing. Daytime and nighttime fireworks and dedicated celebrants and vendors selling rosaries, candles and incense. What a day to be here.

    Now off to see the pre-Inca area of stone walls. Many of which have been built upon with colonial architectures. They are amazing. Each has stone footings up to 2 meters underground, small rocks at the base to absorb any seismic movement and multi-sided heavy rocks above. The puzzle-like system was designed to withstand both lateral and vertical earthquake movements; clearly it did. The locals call these walls the “pre-Inca" walls and those replicated by the Spanish the
    “inc-ompetent” walls, which have failed during earthquakes. The more sides the rocks have, the more they can withstand.

    Then to see the art in more pre-Inca walls. Pretty cool! The work is extraordinary.

    Next to the first Inca temple to the Sun God. Which was later mostly destroyed to build another cathedral. You can still see the darker Inca stones at the base to mid sections. These were originally covered completely in sheets of gold. And to my luck, the annual ceremony to the Sun God was also today. Which was attended by dignitaries, the media, group of nuns, devote worshipers, and lucky people to come upon it. Again, in Peru, the Catholic faith is combined with spirituality based on the earth (Pachamama) and Sun and everything in between.

    The day became hot, so the fresh orange juice was quite tempting. And the peels were impressive.

    Now, to the museum under the ground of the Sun God ceremony. Stay tuned for more…    Read more