Cusco – The People

I loved the mountains surrounding Cusco and I could hardly believe that I was looking at architecture that was built in the 13th century and still standing. However, what I loved most about my visit were the local people who took time to talk with me and who showed me kindness during my brief stay.

I met Miguel on my first day in Cusco in the Plaza de Armas. He spoke better English than I did Spanish but that didn’t stop him taking the time to answer my questions about the city and culture. When he found out that I enjoyed hiking, Miguel told me that I must come back and visit the Colca Canyon, Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash, Chachapoyas (Warriors of the Clouds), Pacaya–Samiria National Reserve in the Amazon. He took the time to describe each and typed the name of each location in my smartphone notepad for me. I saw Miguel again on my last day in Cusco. He called my name as we passed on the street and I told him that it was my last day in Cusco. He insisted we go have a going away beer, which he poured and I paid for….I thoroughly enjoyed the brief time I spent with Miguel listening to him enthusiastically tell me about his beautiful country.