One Gal, One Backpack, and an Open Mind: Walking back in time

After a long overnight flight, I returned home this afternoon. I will certainly miss all of the warm, friendly people, excellent food and the many friends I have made while in Peru. Yesterday, Ana walked to my hotel at 10 a.m. We walked all over Lima, including a very neat town; Barranca. I can barely write the word without laughing. She told me I had to be able to say it before crossing the town line. I practiced a few times but realized, it was inevitable: no matter how hard I tried to get it, I am American and the tongue roll does not come naturally. I then challenged her to a few words like uncle (came out as ankle!). So we walked all over Barranca saying Barranca and uncle. Neither one of us had an impressive debut. Barranca was a very cool town. It was like stepping back in time, all of the buildings were very old with incredible architecture. I have always enjoyed architecture but never imagined I could thoroughly enjoy an entire day of looking at the intricate designs. We stumbled upon a Peruvian Hairless Dog which originated in pre-inca cultures. This wasn't necessarily a dog you would walk up to and say 'oh, he's adorable, can I pet him?' but cute in a different sort of way (I am not sure how to explain it haha). He had some sort of skin disease or acne, a mohawk, hairless body and a little hair on his tail. I think it might have been the mohawk that made him cute.

we stopped in Barranca for ceviche (raw fish). Much to my surprise, I enjoyed it. The fish is marinated in a lot of lime juice which changes it's texture. We walked to Miraflores and shopped at the Inka Market until I had to go to the airport. Inka Market is a street full of paintings, ceramics, alpaca and other art. The colors in all of the Peruvian crafts are so bright and colorful; they are wonderful!