Day Before Departure

After our days in the wondrous Machu Picchu we are back in Cusco. As our day of departure comes closer we rush to take in as much of Perú as we can, including its beautiful products. Following a delicious breakfast that served one of my favorite drinks, jugo de maracuyá, we headed off to the San Pedro market. On our way to the market we came across the previas de Inti Raymi in the Plaza de Armas. Inti Raymi is an important celebration done during the Inca Empire and still done today. This celebration, in honor of Inti, the Incan sun god welcomed the winter solstice.

Upon arriving to the market, one was able to find an assortment of clothing, jewelry, and foods. Here everyone set up shop tightly together. The pathways allowed for a crowded flow of people with constant elbow bumping. Staring at an array of colors coming from the decorative Peruvian fabrics I was faced with more options than I wanted to have. I was finally able to buy a couple of mantas, which I had been eyeing ever since our arrival to Cusco. Many others bought mantas too. As we finished the rest of our shopping we headed back to meet the others for lunch and soon after we flew back to Lima.

In Lima we had dinner and headed off to one of UARM's musical arts show. We enjoyed some music by student rock bands. My personal favorite however, was the Marinera; a traditional Peruvian dance which I first fell in love with at Brisas de Titicaca.

As our last night in Perú was coming to an end we made plans with some UARM students to meet after the show. When we arrived back at the hostel and everyone was getting ready I called for a taxi to take us to Miraflores. We reached our destination with minimal difficulties so I guess my instructions were well given. I'm not very good with directions so I was proud of myself.

We spent the rest of our night with a splendid group of people. I could not have asked for a friendlier more inviting group to have spent one of my last moments in Perú with. The UARM students were truly fun and kind. I only hope one day they have the opportunity to visit us in Omaha so we can return the favor.