After a couple of months in Caracas, Lima is a big change. Things seem more relaxed here, and there is a noticeable tourist presence. We are also back in Hostel World, with lots of fellow travelers from different backgrounds and opinions. Prices are much lower than we´ve seen since Argentina and Chile (accommodation wise) and food is the least expensive yet. We´ve spent some time exploring different neighborhoods, and all have had something to offer. We are staying in Barranco, with lots of Colonial architecture, old buildings, and a sort of Bohemian feel. We are near the beach, and even have a view of the ocean from our room! Ceviche, of course, and seafood in general is what we´ve been eating since we got here. Everything has been delicious!
In Lima center, we checked out all of the historic buildings: churches, museums, etc. We had a guided tour of the San Francisco Convent (founded in the 16th Century) and Museum, including the famous catacombs (fitting to visit on Valentine´s Day, I think). Although no longer cloistered, some monks still live here! Just as beautiful was the Santo Domingo Convent, where we spent quite a while exploring this sanctuary where the remains of Santa Rosa de Lima, San Martin de Porres and San Juan Macias rest. Late in the afternoon, we were able to see the changing of the guard…very impressive, with lots of music, marching, gun twirling and the like.
We stumbled on a great restaurant in an old, crumbly colonial house where we sat on the balcony (see pics) and ate lunch with a pitcher of pisco sour. The menu was entertainment enough: Sangria de la Casa was translated as Bleeding House and the Cuba Libre? Free Vat. (Those who speak Spanish will appreciate this more.) One of the guys who worked there was a great source of information on the city. He gave us lots of ideas on where to visit in the provinces as well, as his dream is to start a tour company.
Back in Barranco there was a Valentine´s Festival going on in the plaza, with lots of music, dancing and food. Nightlife in the neighborhood is hopping, with many bars, nightclubs and peñas with plenty of locals and tourists dancing the nights away.
Looks like you guys have a great hostel. Super view. I read the statistics again–amazing #s. Have a great Peruvian exploration.
Loved all the photos, guys. What kind of dog was that? Your writings, as usua,l are artistic!
dad
It´s a Peruvian Hairless, here´s a link about it
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peruvian_Hairless_Dog
great pics once again. i too wondered what kind of dog that was.and what is ceviche ?(i know it is food, but what?
Thanks for thew dog info, I’ve seen other breeds of hairless dogs.
Jan-
Ceviche is ¨raw¨ fish and or shellfish that is cooked only with the citric acid of lime (or sometimes lemon). In Peru it´s prepared with thinly sliced onion, spicy pepper, and a bit of salt and other seasoning. A mixed ceviche here has consisted of white fish, octopus, squid, conch, scallops, etc. Usually it´s served with a slice of cold sweet potato on the side, and-or a piece of giant sweet corn.
see, i did get your reply here.(but thanks for letting me know it was here, or i might of missed it ha,ha)