Saturday, July 19, 2008

The Lima Llama Experience

Unfortunately we will not be able to write about our amazing day on top of a llama riding through the streets of Lima. That´s not to say that we didn´t see some Lima Llamas, and it´s not that we didn´t get through a good number of streets during the day, but alas, we were unable to take a ride.

We are staying in a great little place right near Plaza Mayor and were able to see some very busy modern shopping areas as well as two old school plazas. The first is dedicated to the General who helped Peru declare freedom and the second is surrounded by one of the oldest cathedrals and the government´s palace (where we saw armored tanks and what we think was a fancy changing of the guard ceremony).

Later we went to this "really old place" where the Lima natives had built a pyramid for ceremonial stuff (like sacrificing young women ... yikes!). The experience was a bit surreal since from the top of the pyramid we could see that the area is totally surrounded by modern buildings (businesses and residences) which really brings to light just how endangered the ancient world is.

To end the adventure we walked along side an enourmous Peace Parade that was filled with children of all ages (including some senior citizens being pushed in wheel chairs) who were singing, dancing, marching, and chanting about the importance of bringing South Americans together and being truly dedicated to peace. We ended up at Larco Mar ... a modern area on the cliffs overlooking the ocean where we were able to relax and watch both a futbol game down on the shore and the parasailers crazy enough to fly right over us.

A fun start. We are still a little anxious about getting to the top of the mountain, so that weighs heavy on our minds as we try to take in all that we´re seeing here. Dan already noticed that Lima doesn´t seem as commercialized as some parts of Mexico ... we don´t feel like there are tourists everywhere or that the city is catering to tourists so much that it doesn´t have its own identity. I enjoyed seeing some of the children´s faces as we sat in the Plaza, hung out in the Central Park of Lima, and stood over the shore.

Can´t wait for what´s next ...

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Well, maybe the lovely Lima llamas left you laughing and not lonely.

Sounds like the adventure is a good one already. I'm sure you are enjoying seeing the people and particularly the children. I think the idea of the peace parade is interesting. I love the idea that they are actually being active in this area. Shouldn't we be too?

Seems like a lot of people are going to Peru these days so I am surprised that there isn't a more "tourist" feel to the city. I feel like Machu Pichu is getting many tourists and hopefully they can keep it pristine.

I just finished taking a virtual tour of MP. Found the connection on the Wikipedia site. It was quite fantastic for sure.

Sounds like you two are seeing many sites and having some r&r time as well.

Enjoy the moment.