Cusco is a stunning city and as it happens, the perfect jump off point for our quest to Machu Picchu! We spent days there both coming and going.  In that time we were able to learn some very pertinent pieces of information about Cusco and Peru.

Like, for instance, Peruvian cats are pretty much the same as cats everywhere as in “Lady, hurry up and take my picture and move on down the &$# road so I can get on with what’s really important… my nap time.

As the ever present South American stray dogs, take whatever they can get and sleep wherever they can…

The merchants work and sell in style and technicolor…

Teen became a Chincha drink connoisseur … I think hope the kind without alcohol…

The churches were grand and beautiful so as not to be outdone by the majestic surrounding mountains..

Side Photography Note:  There was a big sign in the way, preventing me from taking this photo symmetrically. Teen pointed out later, the sign said “no foto”.

And unless you want to be boosted for soles for services rendered – as in payment for letting you take their photo with the baby Llamas…

Take the photo from the back…

Be prepared to walk, alot…

Catch stunning views everywhere you go…

Oh – and very important!  If you are going to seek out the not to miss, but hard to find 12 sided stone, watch out for the “No Tocar” Lady.  No matter the time of day or night, the minute you get anywhere near the ancient stone, she will leap out of the shadows proclaiming her battle cry of “No Touching!!!!”.  Yeah, well, can’t blame a tourist teen for trying…

On the chance of any Incan God repercussions, for my non-payment of the Llama girls, unauthorized photos,  and Teens aggressive attempts to spurn No Tocar Lady, we thought it best to move on…

Next – The Ruins of Peru.

For More on South America: Go Here

For more Sweet Spot Travel: Go Here