Lima, Day 0. Cusco, Day 1 (by Lawrence)

Today, Thursday September 3rd, we made it to Cusco! The taxi ride to the airport in Lima was a study in the Latin American traffic vibe. Everyone vying for the same opening in another lane, even if no opening exists. Liberal use of the horn. Spotty adherence to rules like "stop at a red light." Once in the airport more insanity ensued. Lines, pushing, fees to pay, more pushing, security screening. But the Peruvians have been so very kind to us when they see we are traveling with small children. We have been ushered to the front of every line we encounter once the authorities see our kids.


Speaking of our kids, Isabel and Sophia are such amazing travelers. Sophia has had her moments of frustration, but she is over them quickly. Isabel is a great help with Sophia and is taking in this whole experience in her quiet, thoughtful way. Both kids could feel the altitude once we landed here at 11,500 feet, but Sophia was pretty delirious. Her heart was racing and she needed to move and speak constantly. She has quieted down now, but those first hours found her inhabiting that hinterland between alarming and amusing.

We have moved into what may be our temporary residence, El Centro Tinku (you can see it on the web). We have a cute little studio apartment with a large sleeping loft for the girls. I am sure Isabel will tire quickly of her sister in bed with her, but for now that's the way it is.



My first impression of this place is that it is right in the middle of the Andes. After living in the Bolivian cities of Sucre and La Paz which are also officially in the Andes, this place feels more alpine. The final approach to the airport felt more like a skydive than a gentle glide. I was eye level with snow covered peaks as we whizzed by them in our jet.







The foyer of our new abode.






There is a lovely little courtyard here that serves meals and we all drank matte de coca right away. It is purported to help with altitude sickness and both girls loved it. It really does taste so good. It's a shame we can't get it in the USA.











Well, we are getting ready to go out for our first dinner. I think we will start cooking for ourselves tomorrow, but tonight someone else can do if for us.