To whomever actually reads the introduction, in many ways this is a list of places I want to travel to in the near future (a few of which I've already been to). But this is mostly an article for you, the reader, who visits this site for insight into …
Peru
Budget for Volunteering in Rural Peru
Are you thinking of volunteering in South America? Why not volunteer in rural Peru? The options for improving your Spanish and immersing yourself in a unique culture are endless, and on top of all that, it can cost as little as $300USD per …
Local’s Guide to Ollantaytambo, Peru
Pronounced “O-yan-tay-tombo” and called simply “o-YAN-ta” by the locals, I spent two months of my life in this small Peruvian town, this a living Inca village just a few hours from Cusco and Machu Picchu.What Is The Sacred Valley Of Peru? The …
Peruvian Desserts & Dishes You Must Try in the Sacred Valley
Peruvian desserts and dishes are becoming world famous for their fusion of native cuisines, European styles, and some ingredients imported from Asia. Living in rural Peru for two months, I ate a TON of local food occasionally supplemented by home …
Machu Picchu Ruminations from the Sacred Valley
The majority of businesses in Ollantaytambo were closed for a few days, about a month ago. They tried to shut down the entire town, but some tourists remained behind and some businesses opted to serve them. It didn't surprise me or disappoint me, …
Backpacking Machu Picchu: How to Get to Aguas Calientes (Photos)
While living in the Sacred Valley of Peru, I went on an adventure to see Machu Picchu on a backpackers budget, widely claimed to be one of the Seven Wonders of the (Modern) World.The trip started on a Wednesday morning, when I got on the van …
Free Incan Ruins in Ollantaytambo: Pinkuylluna
Wondering what to do in the sacred valley, or in Ollantaytambo, Peru? How about visiting Incan ruins with— wait for it— no other tourists?A Sign From Above I have lived in Ollantaytambo for 2 months now, and I rarely, if ever, saw tourists …
Becoming a Godmother: On Peruvian Churches
Instead of taking my time and hiking back from Machu Picchu on my last of three saved-up days off, I took the very expensive train back from Aguas Calientes. I had a commitment. That afternoon was the confirmation ceremony for my …
How to See Salt Mines in Peru: A Guide In Photos
There are salt mines located about a 10 minute drive from Ollantaytambo, my town in Peru. Technically, the town they're located in is Maras, but the mountains take up so much room that they're more like Maras-adjacent. However, these salt mines …
Recipe: Peruvian Arroz Con Leche
This is my favorite food to make at work. My internship is in a chocolate factory, but when I'm there, I love to make rice with spice.About the Recipe Though the winner of favorite Peruvian food goes to Aji de Gallina, a creamy onion chicken …
