Friday, September 03, 2010

Lima Peru

We have jumped ship temporarily. A trip to Peru has been on our agenda for at least a year and why not go now? Lima is on the southern side of the equator, 12 degrees south, 77 degrees west. Our boat is in Curacao at 12 degrees north and 68 degrees west. A short 4 hours and 30 minute plane ride via Bogota will give us a break from the relentless heat and 30 days of mystic adventure in the land of the Incas. From 32 degrees Celsius (90 F) in Curacao to 14 degrees Celsius (57 F) in Lima. Break out the fleece.


We tie up Fine Line nice and snug. Takes some time to get her ready. Hurricanes usually do not come as far south and west as Curacao but just in case....


5 pm at the airport we have a farewell drink and rest up for our journey.

Avianca airlines to Lima via Bogota Columbia. A nice ride

We arrived in Lima at 0130. Our driver is waiting for us and soon we are tucked away in our nice cozy guest house. The next day it is time for some exploring. Hiking shoes out and ready to go. Ooops, looks like Anne's 20 year old hiking shoes are not going to make it. They just don't make things like they used to. Guess we are going shoe shopping.

Our first stop, MiraFlores. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, MiraFlores is a hopping cosmopolitan suburb of Lima. Parque del Amor lies along the Malecon. Great walking and sightseeing. It is spring time here so lots of lovers are out and about.

The city of Lima is steeped in fog called garua. From April to October the sky is gray and overcast. It is just like being in Southern California during June Gloom when mist from the cold Pacific Ocean drapes the coast line. Around 1 pm the sun peeks out and makes everything come alive. It is short lived, however, by 4pm the gurua is back.

Lima is known for it's cuisine. The selection of fresh fruits and vegetables rival any California market.

Lunch at Mangos. On a terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Our view includes not only the obvious ocean but flying by our window at regular intervals are humans strapped to parachutes....crazy fools. Out to sea we spot three whales swimming south.
Lunch is amazing: cerviche, canchita, maize and sparkling lemonade.

Steve tries out a fried pork sandwich (got the statin drugs with us). A bit dry with all the bread but the meat is tasty on its own.

This city reminds of Manhattan. Bustling, lively, outdoor cafes, taxis....a bit noisy. A place that will awaken your senses.
Next we will visit the colonial heart of Lima, the Plaza de Armas. Museums, churches, stately mansions, more food.....AHHHHHH!
See you soon,
Anne and Steve
Lima Peru







2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Gurua has been the order of the day in San Pedro since May. No summer this year, water temp is about 65. Sounds like Peru!
Have fun!
Mike Shaw

Diane said...

Thanks for your wonderful pix and descriptions so we can vicariously enjoy your Peru trip!