Exploring Lima

June 26 - Free Day - Walk to Barracco (Bohemian district)

Thankfully, The Fulbright Program knew that at this point, we were all overwhelmed and exhausted, but in the best of ways. Our minds have been filled with history, culture, and educational discussions. A free day to catch up on sleep, process our thoughts, and explore on our own was exactly what we all needed. Some adventurous Fulbrighters went on day-long tours and excursions, but I was happy to join a small group to walk to Barranco and casually peruse the Bohemian area of Lima. Though it was a laid back, casual, and relaxing day, I still walked over 20,000 steps and was exhausted by nightfall.

While in Barranco, I enjoyed a Tex-Mex lunch, shopped in a boutique-like Sunday market, and explored the street murals by local artists. I’m grateful for the opportunity to casually explore and continuing building friendships with my fellow Fulbright colleagues.

June 27 - Inka Market

Today started with an easy morning, meeting in the lobby at 9:30 to head to the souvenir market. After a ten minute bus ride, we arrived at the Inka Plaza where we had an hour and a half to peruse the shops and barter for souvenirs. I was able to grab a couple lightweight Alpaca scarves for gifts. Most of the alpaca items that I’ve found thus far are too thick for the Florida heat, but these are perfect. At only 10 soles ($3.50) each, I grabbed several to give as gifts.

A quick bus ride around the block, lunch was awaiting us at Costa Azul. We were greeted with passion fruit pisco sours (and lemonade for us non-drinkers), which were apparently much stronger than usual; we sat and relaxed until the appetizer was brought out. The 3 courses for this lunch were: crab empanadas, fish/seafood soltado with rice, and a slice of the most decadent, moist death-by-chocolate cake. With full bellies, and some with a little buzz, we grabbed a quick cafe con leche (coffee with milk), loaded the bus, and headed for our third school visit, driving along the beautiful Pacific coastline. Today was one of the few times that the sun peeked through the fog/smog, and we all enjoyed the beautiful views.