In Arequipa...

Arequipa was one of the last cities founded by Spanish Empire in South America in 1540. Known as a "white city" for the white washed buildings and the Spanish inhabitants. During colonial times, the Indigenous people were not allowed to dwell in the city and lived in the outskirts instead. One distinguishing feature in the city is the expansive Santa Catalina de Siena Convent in the downtown area. The convent was originally built in 1579 and was constantly expanded and renovated due to growth and the damage from earthquakes. The convent is a maze of court yards, cloisters, bedrooms, kitchens, shrines and gardens. Many of the nuns and novices came from wealthy families and they were used to a level of luxury. As a result the interior of the convent is richly decorated with paintings from popular painters, court yard passages full of fresco painted ceilings and English pianos in some of the rooms.

This region in Peru is also known for such culinary dishes as the Chupe de Camarones, a tasty traditional shrimp soup. Gaint whole shrimps simmered in a milky and cheese broth with potatoes, corn, green pepers, rice and egg. Filling and delicious. The other known dish is Rocoto Relleno, a red chili pepper stuffed with meat, peanuts, cheese, onions, and other goodness accompanied with toasted thinly sliced potatoes and cheese, bathed in a creamy milk sauce. Heavy and spicy.

I just came back from a short two day trek into the Colca Canyon,
one of the deepest canyon in the world at 3191 meters (when measured from the peak). Full of dusty, terraced farm lands and a gorge cut by the Majes River and volcanic mountain sides sprinkled with the occasional village. During this time of year, there are plenty of white and black condors flying above the canyon. The actual climb down and up was surprisingly short at about two hours. The route was not deepest and by far the descent down the Grand Canyon is  much longer and warmer but the route into the Colca Canyon ends in a pleasant oasis and our accommodations (with beds, pool and shower). The Colca Canyon trail is a popular hike and it seems practically all the tour companies offer the same route and amenities. Just go with the cheapest tour as there is very little difference between tours but bring some snacks.

The sun has set in Arequipa. Time to get something to eat.