Early in the morning I arrived from Michigan. I was a bit tired, but I knew Michael was coming that night and we agreed to meet, at least briefly. My plan was taking a nap and meeting him around 10:30pm. Suddenly my cell rang. It was a business call - yes, believe it or not I work, haha. Anyway, I'd have a business dinner and after that I'd meet Michael, so almost no time for a nap. Ufff, it was a busy day: business + TB :P

I was at the dinner when I got Michael SMS. He has already arrived to Lima and was at his hostel. I sent him a SMS back, letting him know I'd be there in 30min more less. It was almost midnight when the dinner was over. I was in a restaurant in the same area where Michael was staying. So it didn't take me long to arrive to his hostel. I parked, went to the hostel and we met in the lobby of the hostel. It was so nice, finally meeting him. We have been in touch since a while. There were a lot of emails, messages, etc, but no voice or moving face, haha. I was driving, so I didn't want to drink maybe a couple of drinks, but my favorite bar was closed, NOOOOOO! It has been closed by the city hall. I don't know how long it would take until they reopen, hopefully not long and Michael and I can go there when he comes back from the south.

Anyway, we went to a restaurant/bar and sat at the patio. We started to chat and it was funny how I felt we were already friends from some time ago, haha. We had a couple of drinks and he was a bit hungry, so I ordered for him some Peruvian appetizers. Although it was a brief meet up, I had a great time just sitting and talking to Michael. He's a really interesting person, with lot of experiences and wants to learn as much as possible from the different cultures and people. Since he decided to visit Peru, I have been giving him some info about the country and he did his own research online! Wow! I couldn't have asked for somebody more interested in my country and you know I'm proud of my perucito. So, perfect match :)

Well, it was almost 1:30, when we left the place. I had to work tomorrow and Michael was a bit tired after the long trip. This was a short Meet Up, but new adventures would come the next day, hehe.

This cafeteria is one of the only 2 at the airport after doing customs and going through security. It's ok, nothing special or extraordinary. But it's almost the only one there, so it could be packed if there are many flights leaving at same time. It's expensive compared to the cafeterias located before customs & security. I would recommend you to go to one of the cafeterias outside if you are hungry and leave this as your last chance, hehe. The service is very nice if they are not packed; otherwise it can take a long time and they could seem to be a bit rude. The food is light and you can find juices, soft drinks, not so soft drinks, sandwiches, salads, etc. The tables are big, so you can use your laptop without any problem; actually there is a problem: No Wi fi!!! ok, not everyone is an addict, hehe

The past few days I was busy with my job and also with the TB’s visiting Lima �" what a surprise, haha! So I didn’t have time to pack in advance as I usually do. The day before leaving I got news from Chris & Carla who were back in Lima, but against my nature, I had to say no to the opportunity of meeting this sweet couple. Well, I already met them when they arrived to Peru, so not so bad, but sad :( 

I started to think about what to pack, mmm. Eric was giving me some support online, haha. Well, I tried not to spend much time in TB that day; otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to pack at all, haha. Packing wasn’t so simple, not only because I don’t have things clear about what to wear, but also because I had a little and loud buddy who didn’t let me move… yes: Gunther!!! He’s getting better. This time he grabbed my sleeve and didn’t let me move my arms, OMG, next time it won’t be easy.  But nobody or nothing can stop me for traveling ;)

My flight was leaving almost at 11pm and I didn’t want to bother my parents asking them to drive me to the airport. So we met at home and I asked for a cab. I arrived early and had an experience a lot of people had for 1^st time. When we are going to the USA, usually we have to go through a pre-security. I have never had problems with it, but this time the guy asked me about my last time in the States and when I said: 3 weeks ago. He got surprised and started to check every single stamp in my Passport and try to look if my Visa was a real one, haha. He asked me where I was the last time: KC! Mmm, strange… and where are you going now? Michigan, stranger… hahaha. The flight was going to New York and most of the people were staying there. I was the only one flying to MI. I love to be unique ;) 

Well, there was another guy checking the bags. I was hopping he wouldn’t check mine, since I packed it really carefully. Well, he didn’t do it, although I noticed he wanted to do it, but the line was getting bigger and what could an innocent little girl do??? ;) I did customs, went through security and had free time. I just took a cup of coffee and started to write about my last meet Up in Lima. I couldn’t get connection to Internet, but I wanted to have the new entry ready, so whenever I had the opportunity to log on, I would just copy & paste it, hehe. That small cafeteria was packed!!!

I went to the gate and tried once more time with the Internet and I got it!!! No need to say what I checked first, haha. Yes, yes, I’m an addict. “Hello, my name is Yadi and I’m a TB Addict…” Just sent a couple of emails, talked to my mom and it was time to go on board, yeah!!!!  The adventure was starting, yeah!!!!

I haven’t been sleeping much the past few days. I have been busy and it was part of my plan to be tired during the flight, so I would be able to sleep. But I can’t help it talking and meeting people, haha. Next to me there was a guy with his niece. His name is Karl and he’s also Peruvian. He lives in NJ now and was visiting family with his niece, who just speaks English and visited Peru for 1^st time. Katey is so cute! She was really excited about the idea of flying but was also sad, because she was leaving her dad in Lima.

Karl talked to me in Spanish and when the flight attendant came I talked to him in English. Katey was amazed with that and wanted me to talk just in English, haha. She was sleepy and fall asleep quickly. I was thinking about doing the same, but Karl could talk almost as much as I do, haha. Funny Peruvians, haha. Everybody wanted to sleep, but not the 2 Peruvians, haha. He was telling me he came back to Lima after 8 years and found a nicer Lima. He was feeling prouder to be a Peruvian and couldn’t wait long to come back to Peru. I loved what he said so much!!! Perucito!!!!

Ok, next day would be a long one and exciting one, so better try to sleep at least a couple of hours, hehe, time to turn the lights down, ZZZ.

Ok, so we arrive at the Jorge Chavez international airport in Lima. I was so excited to see my family again. They all live in Peru, and even though I visit them once a year, I still miss them terribly.  At the airport they were already waiting for us, of course, it was a very emotional meeting, specially for my parents. After all the crying was doned we head home, about 40 minute, crazy drive from the airport, we were more tired than hungry and went right to bed. We stayed with my family, so I really don't know much about hotels, and my parents live in a neighborhood called la molina, and although safe, it doesn't really have much to offer. Taxis are very cheap and everywhere, but as a tourist I would recomend to stay close by where the action is, ie miraflores, barranco, etc.
Lima has a lot to offer, I would say the nigthlife is pretty cool, and there are many different places and neighborhoods to choose from. There are a couple of malls that are worth visiting along with the main plaza, downtown. I would recomend to go with a local, a friend, a guide, just in case, since it can be dangerous.
My stay in Lima was short and mostly to see my family and friends more than anything else. All we did here was eat, choclo con queso! (boiled corn and fresh cheese) and fried fish, these simple things tasted soo good!!!.  I also got to see Rossanna, my best friend, we meet when we were like 3 yrs old and lived close by forever, more than a friend she's a sister to me.
The next day we had a BBQ at my grandma's house and boy was the food good. One of the things they made were anticuchos, which is a sort of shish kabob, you can made it out of anykind of meat. Though, the real ones are made from the beef's heart, and trust me, it might sound gross to you, but it's the best thing in the world! Other of the peruvian dishes you can't miss on is ceviche, pollo a la brasa, and the pisco sour!! The BBQ turned into a party and everyone had fun. It was great seeing all my family, unfortunately I left early because we were flying to Puno the next morning. 

This is a restaurant specialized in a type of Peruvian Cuisine: “Comida Criolla”. They serve daily buffet so you are able to try dishes from different areas of the coast and highland of Peru. They are located in a centric area, although the neighborhood is not the prettiest. But once you walk inside, you forget about the surroundings. The restaurant is casual and cozy, although many of their customers come from work wearing suits. The location has 2 floors. The food’s stations are located in the 1st floor, so if you want to be closer to the food, look for a table in the ground floor. The atmosphere is very nice with good music. There is a stage on the ground floor, where a band plays Peruvian music and dancers perform on Fridays and weekends. You can ask for your favorite songs or send greetings to your friends there. On the second floor there is a private room, which is perfect for receptions or private parties. The high ceiling gives a great touch to the place. They also have a waterfall inside the restaurant. The presentation of the dishes is very neat. The hot dishes are presented in traditional clay pots, cute! Ok, now the food. It’s very tasty!!! They say they are proud of our cuisine and can’t show it better. And after tasted their dishes, I felt prouder of being Peruvian – if it’s possible, haha. They have 3 stations. The 1st one of appetizers. You’d find cold appetizers like fresh fish and seafood, next to stuffed potatoes and red pepper. The 2nd station is focused on the hot entrees and sides as rice, mashed potatoes, etc. My favorite dish here is the “Aji de Gallina” Try it! And finally but not last there are the desserts, besides the fresh fruit, cakes and flans, there is the Lima’s most famous dessert: “Combinado” which mixes 2 desserts the purple corn pudding & the rice pudding. Delicious!!! The attention is really great. The cheff is walking around the restaurant making him sure, everything is going perfect. The waiters are taking good care of the customers too. This place is perfect for celebrating events. If you have birthday, they will give you a birthday cake. If your group is larger than 10 ppl, you’d get a free cocktail for each and if it’s larger than 20 ppl, you’d get a bottle of wine. By the way: the average cost is US$15 per person. Not a bad deal... I’m thinking seriously about including this in the Meet Up agenda… any comments???

This was Francois’ 2^nd day in Peru. The night before we agreed to meet for lunch. I picked him up at Rom’s at 1:15pm in my new car, haha. I have driven some TB’s before, but never with this car. Francois is the 1^st one :) So, this drive was even more special, hehe. Although is winter time in Lima, these past few days have been sunny and this wasn’t an exception. Ok, what do we like to eat when is sunny??? Cebiche!!! So, let’s go for some fish & seafood. I remembered he made a comment to one of my reviews of a restaurant, which serves a Peruvian buffet. So, instead to go to a place just for Fish and Seafood, better going to this restaurant, where he could get not only the Fish and Seafood, but also other Peruvian dishes :P 

The traffic was crazy, but finally we arrived. This place is in other area of Lima, close to the Financial area, but not in the same district. So the drive gave me the chance to show him other places of Lima, including the crazy traffic of the city, haha. I hope he considered it safe, how I drove, haha. We arrived to the restaurant and I was concerned about where to park. There were no free Parking Spots in front of the restaurant, but the watchman let me park in a Parking Spot saved for handicapped, hehehe. There was a table also waiting for us, lucky us!!!! We have been drinking the night before, so we just had lemonade and Inca Kola, hehe. Since it was a buffet it was self service. Francois followed me to the appetizers station. There was the Chef, Eduardo, who recognized me. He treated us as the favorite customers of the place, haha. He wanted to take pic of us and wanted us to try every single dish. Francois got some Cebiche and Seafood of course, besides other Peruvian hot appetizers.

We went back to our table and started enjoying our meal, while we were just talking about ourselves, travels, hobbies, etc. Ok, time for round 2!! These time the hot dishes. I joined Francois in order to introduce him to all the dishes. There was one “Aji de Gallina” (made of chicken with a dressing of milk, yellow pepper, etc) he wanted to try definitively. We have been talking about this dish, so it was a MUST and he loved it!!!! I didn’t want anything hot, so I went back for more cold appetizers and Eduardo told me I brought him luck, haha; my friends and I would always be welcomed there. After having our entrees, we were feeling a bit full, but Francois is just like me, he loves the sweets and desserts, haha. So, let’s move to the desserts’ station! We tried the Peruvian traditional dessert and despite we were full, we couldn’t help it and went for a 2^nd round :P

We left the restaurant around 3pm and we were thinking about where to go. Well, I wanted to show Francois a “huaca”, which is a mud pyramid. The biggest are in the North, but since he wouldn’t be able to go there, I decided to show him one that is located in Lima. It was the perfect time, before rush hour. We visited huaca “Huallamarca” in San Isidro. These huacas are the buildings – usually ceremonial – built by the Pre-Incas in the Coast. First we climbed it and then we visited the museum next to it. And I became a guide/translator, haha. Also we were able to see the “Peruvian dog”, which is special because it doesn’t have hair, hehe. While we were learning about the huaca, Jenny called me letting me know she would go to my house later that day. Ok! We had plans, hehe.  

We left the huaca and went for some cremoladas – yummy! The cremoladas are like iced water, so refreshing and tasteful. We went to the best place for Cremoladas and I got one of Carambola and he one of mango. They were refreshing. It was almost 6pm and I needed to do some shopping before going back home for our “Cheese & Wine”. First we picked up Francois’ Champagne. We agreed some time ago, we’d have that “Ch & W”, I would bring a bottle of Argentinean wine and he would bring Champagne hehe. After that we made a quick stop at the Indian Market. I needed to buy 2 shirts, hehe and then we went to the Supermarket. We bought cheese (Brie, Goad with Herbs & Peruvian), cabanossi (spicy sausage), baguette, olives and a bottle of Peruvian wine. I called Jim and he found a sports bar playing the baseball game he wanted to watch, so we would go to my house, after it was over, mmm, ok. 

Francois and I were back at my home around 8pm. We put the champagne, cheese and sausage in the fridge and had some free time before the people arrived. I needed time to check my TB, haha, also Francois had some time to know the SA TB Headquarters and we could see a book about Peru and discuss about ideas of where Francois could to go next. It was already past 9 when Jenny arrived. She was lost! But finally she could make it. The 3 of us were just chatting when Jim called me and let me know he was with another TB, Cinthia, who I didn’t know. Of course, she would be also welcome! Also Romain called and let me know he was leaving and was in his way to my house, yeah!!!!

Around 11pm the whole group was together: Francois, Jenny, Jim, Cinthia, Romain and Yadi :) We had our wine and cheese. Cinthia couldn’t stay longer. She was feeling a bit sick. First of all Jim wanted to play with Gunther, haha, and Gunther was more than happy to have a new play buddy ;) Romain was fascinated with the Brie. He wasn’t able to find a good one during all his time in Lima and Francois did it during his first day in the supermarket near to my house, haha. The 2 Miraflorinos: Jim & Francois, were proud talking about their city, what ?!?!?! I refused to accept that, especially from Romain who hasn’t visited Machu Picchu yet, but he just said: “Shadi, Shadi, Shadi, you have to accept the fact, I’m a Peruvian, haha, that’s what you wish, haha. Anyway, we agreed we all are “Cosmopolitan” :)  

Francois was telling the rest of the gang about the great time we had and every time, he told where we went, what we ate or visited, Romain opened his eyes wider and moved his head from one side to the other just asking: “Why??? Shadi, why didn’t you do it for me????” Well, simple answer: “Aren’t you a Peruvian? Haha ;)”

Francois wanted to smoke and went outside, 2 minutes later, he and Gunther were playing haha. The bottles of wine were gone, but we were still missing the champagne.  I took that out of the fridge and Francois opened it. We toasted for the “Cosmopolitan Friends” and for the next fun days to come. Francois would leave to the South after 2 days, maybe Jim and Jenny would meet him there. I would leave to MI in 2 days (it will be part of another blog) and Romain would fly to France on Friday. So it was a “Cosmopolitan Good Bye Party”. But at least 3 of us will be celebrating the Peruvian National Holidays the 28^th of July, yeah!!!!! 

The Cosmopolitan Friends rock!!!!!!!

Fly in to Lima Int'l Airport. Our flight landed at around 10:30pm. We had reserved Hostal Residencial Victor and a ride to the hostel. It cost us $10  to ride for about 15 minutes, so it wasn't bad. However the hostel was horrible! Looked like the worst neighborhood in Lima. Hostel was behind a closed gate, so we kind of felt safe, but still!!! Then again, we wanted a cheap place to sleep as we had to wake up early morning to get back to the airport to pick up our friends and together fly to Cusco. At least we slept, not so well, but we slept! Drive back to the airport cost us $8. Why less? Probably because at that point you will realize that you can get taxi for very little in Peru! Just ask few drivers. They all want to take turists, and you can really bargain with them, if of course, you know you can!

First of all, I have to apologize for breaking my rule/tradition/duty “ updating this blog not later than 24hrs after having a meeting”. Believe it or not I was busy working during the morning and didn’t have time during the afternoon; you’ll see why in the next entry… but here it is, yeah!!!

Francois is French TB who right now is working and living in the USA. He contacted me some time ago, letting me know he was interested in visit this part of the world. We were in touch since then and finally the day arrived. Romain, another French TB who is now claiming being a Miraflorino, picked him up from the airport. Rom called me around 7:30pm when they were leaving the airport, so I met them at Rom’s place. First of all, giving a big hug to Francois!!! I felt as if I he was a good friend I haven’t seen for a long time, haha. We went upstairs and had a “Peru Libre” like “Cuba Libre”, but instead of Rum you use Pisco, hehe. We were just talking about our TB's experiences and the friends we have in common. I like how this site works!!!!! By the way, the first thing Francois wanted to do in Lima was: going to the “Tayta”, haha. During the day I contacted other TB’s to join us there ;) 

Before going to the Tayta, we went to have dinner. Rom suggested Pardo’s Chicken. So, Francois will try the Peruvian Chicken. What did we drink? Do I have to say it? Beer, haha. Our first toast with cold beer in Lima, yay!!! We had a tasty dinner and it was getting late, so it was time to move to Tayta. I have already made a reservation for the couch, but they usually don’t hold the reservations after 10:30pm!!! Francois speaks English and a bit of Spanish, but sometimes Rom was his translator, haha. Not because he needed one, just because we wanted things faster, haha. Night wasn’t cold, so it was perfect walking to the Tayta. We were just talking and thinking about what’s coming next for these TB’s addicts, hehe.

Finally we arrived to Tayta, the couch was free and we took a sit. Jenny was already there! She arrived almost 20min before us, but she didn’t waste time, she had already her mojito, hehe. The promotion of the day includes mojitos, screwdrivers, cuba libres & chilcano (pisco with ginger ale) for S/.9.00, hehe. I got my screwdriver; Rom & Francois got their “chilcanos” haha. We were just chilling out, when Jim arrived, yeah!!! Now we were complete! One French & 4 Peruvians, haha. Well, they might not be Peruvians but are living here, so… 

It was Monday, so it was supposed to be a slow day since we had to work the day after, but that rule doesn’t apply for TB’s, haha. Specially if we are having so much fun! Picture time started. Jim and Rom were telling Francois what they liked the most here and how it was to get adjusted to the culture. My respects, these 2 guys really love Lima!!!! I felt so proud of my Lima, yay!!! Ok, time for another drink… Francois got his 1^st Pisco Sour!!! And the rest of us ordered a pitcher of beer. The Tayta gives you a free snack, just fried corns, and Rom started to throw this corns to Jenny’s and my mouth, haha.

Francois is interested in the vineyards in Ica, where they grow the grapes for the Pisco. Jenny and Jim were there recently, so they were giving him advices. Actually they might meet there in the weekend. That will be super!!! Jenny was the only one who doesn’t live close, so she had to leave us. It was getting late – almost 1 am!

Rom was a bit tired and dressed his jacket, when Jim came with another pitcher of beer, haha. So we stayed longer, no complains at all ;) We left the place around 2am. I wasn’t driving – of course – so Romain will drive me to my home. Actually he drove all of us. In our way to his place, I showed Jim a sports bar where he can watch the Baseball game the next day.

We were transported to the airport and departed Cuzco at 07:55 on a TACA Airlines Flight to Lima where we arrived at 09:20. We got a taxi to the Plaza de Armas and spent the morning visiting the center of the city. There was some kind of International conference being held in the city this day.

Lima is the capital of Peru and its largest city. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the modern city is a curious mix of the modern mega city with some 'islands of modernity', large but orderly slum areas and colonial architecture in the city center. Lima was, with Mexico City, the seat of the Spanish rule during 300 years, and as such it has wonderful churches, cloisters and monasteries that are worth a visit.

Lima is also the best place to try the wonderful Peruvian cuisine, which has a huge variety of ingredients from coast, mountain and Amazon regions. The cold sea current in front of Peru's large coast makes the sea very rich in fish and seafood, which have a great taste due to the special plankton they eat. Fish and seafood restaurants are therefore the best, and not expensive. Lima has also a great subtropical climate, it is never too warm or too cold. People in Lima do not know what a raincoat or umbrella is, since rains are rare. In fact, Lima is built upon a valley surrounded by an extremely arid desert.

After walking around we decided to go to the famous restaurant La Rosa Nautica, the beach in Miraflores. The food was delicious and we met a Portuguese waiter who was working in the restaurant.  We left the restaurant and before leaving for the airport we touched the Pacific Ocean water. After 28 countries visited we were finally touching the Pacific Ocean. We returned to the airport stopped for a coffee at Starbucks and departed at 18:15 on a return KLM flight to Lisbon. Rute and Nelson had to wait for another hour for their Iberia flight.

OMG, this blog is really endless. I’m starting to consider seriously the advice of starting a Second Part, mmm. Maybe for my TB’s joining Anniversary, hehe. Anyway, this week has been busy in my TB’s life. Everyday meeting a TB, how great is that!?!?!? Yesterday I got a message from Jenny, letting me know that 2 TB’s would be in Lima, but at the end they couldn’t arrive to Lima because of a strike. Oh! And I wasn’t expecting a Mini Meet Up with most of the Lima’s TB’s. Would I cancel the Meeting? No way!!! So here is the story, hehe.

The day before, the Meet Up point has already been chosen. Which one? “My” favorite place: “Tayta” :). We scheduled it for 8pm. Around 6pm, I called Romain in order to know if he was going. He told me, he’d go but not alone, he’d meet Karina an hour before, great!!! I wanted so bad to meet Karina - she’s a TB from NC and we have been in touch some time ago, even spoke by phone when I was stuck in Miami, haha. Anyway, Rom asked me to join them at 7 in Larcomar and I did the same with Jim. We met there, just to listen that Karina was already at the Tayta!!! I’m glad she wasn’t alone there. In our way to the Tayta (just a few blocks away), we stopped at Romain’s place looking for something we would definitely need. 

When we arrived I recognized Karina at first sight! It was time for a big hug!!! Karina was there with her cousin (I don’t remember her name, ooops!) and a friend named Katey. By the way, I have to say that Jim’s Spanish improved a lot and he can communicate in Spanish without problems. Congrats, Jim!!! 4 TB’s together, cool!!! Karina was born in Peru, but left the country when she was a little girl. Nevertheless she’s really proud of being a Peruvian, yeah!!! And well we weren’t the only Peruvians. Jim and Romain wanted to be considered Limeños too, haha. Ok, ok, you are honorary Limeños, haha. We were talking about how great it was meeting up, our TB’s experiences and of course why Jim and Romain decided to stay in Lima, hehe. Well, it was easy to understand why ;) Karina told me she tried to make Katie one of us, but she refused. Mmm, maybe she changed her mind after the Mini Meet Up, since she found it really cool the fact we were having a fun time, although we haven’t met in person before. Ok, now the explanation about the quick stop at Romains. We wanted to pick up some pennies! What for? Well, as a regular customer of the Tayta, I know all the promotions. And the promotion of that day was getting 2 beers for the price of 1, if you give a penny, haha. I had some with me, but we might need extra, so go for them, hehe. The pennies are hard to get in Lima. They are not accepted by anyone. Just the supermarkets and banks use them… Ok, first toasts and laughs started. Picture time, too. We were having a great time, when somebody showed up!

It was Jenny! I haven’t seen her since she went to Ecuador almost 1 month ago. She even brought souvenirs from the North for Romain and me. So sweet!!!! I had something from BA for her too, hehe. We were hopping Nelly and Lili could join us too. Nelly contacted Jim and let him know, that she wouldn’t be able to do it. I called Lili and she couldn’t either :( Ok, that will be the reason to plan another Mini Meet Up, hehe. Karina will be here whole July, so we can still make it happen, hehe. We were just chilling out, toasting, taking pics and laughing as crazy when I noticed someone was missing, mmm. Where did you go, Jim??? Hehe

Karina and I started to take fun pics and jumping from one place to another, haha. We were getting ready to dance, but the dance floor is not open on Wed, too bad… Well it’s hard to find a good place to dance on a weekday, mmm. Would that stop us? No way! We started dancing anyway, haha. So much fun! 

I feel so good and full of life when I meet TB. It’s awesome how we talk about the different people we met on the site as if they were friends who live next to us, haha. So many common friends, it’s great!!! Also Karina was wondering about the big plans for the Lima Meet Up, well they are still a secret I don’t want to reveal, but fun is 200% guaranteed, hehe. I asked Karina if she would be in Lima for the National Holidays (28^th & 29^th of July) and she would, yeah! Because I’m thinking about organizing a traditional Peruvian Activity, going to a Peña with all the TB’s who want to join us. Romain would be away, but we will toast in his name, haha. Francois - a French TB is coming, the 1st one I'm gonna welcome here! - and he’s definitely in! I have already convinced him, hehe. So, Francois, you can’t say no and I know you don’t want to miss this opportunity, hehe.

It was around midnight when Karina let us know she had to leave. We had a really great time and I can’t wait until meeting her again, yeah!!!!! The rest of the gang staid here a bit longer, but not too long since we had to work the next day. The only one who staid longer was Jim, well he has already made new friends and didn’t have to wake up early next morning.

Ok, now I have to plan the National Holiday’s Party, yeah!!! That will be really fun, I’m sure about it!!!!

Usually I don't hang out in downtown, but thanks to Minh I did it and we had a blast!!!! :)
Here there are some pics of my beloved city!

Wow! Today was a looooong afternoon, but full of fun, hehe. Tomorrow Minh is flying back home, so today was the day to do some shopping, since tomorrow there won’t be enough time to do it. We agreed to meet around noon, after I’m done with work. We met at 1pm and went straight to the Indian Market, which was located walking distance :)

Of course you can get souvenirs at the airport or at the mall, but the prices and variety are much better at the Indian Market. Plus you can bargain to get a better price, hehe. But you can do it properly if you aren’t a local, so that was my duty, hehe. Actually not a hard job, since I enjoy shopping - which woman doesn’t like it? - and I enjoy spending time with new friends. So what can be better?  

Minh wasn’t sure, what he would buy. So we walked around just looking for nice things. He decided to buy coasters, ash thrashers for a friend, a small house with lights and a painting. Now, it was time to find the best prices. My work was getting started, hehe. We developed a system. We asked, but not looking too interested. Then I handled with the salesman/woman. The Indian Market is not a market, actually there is a street full of Indian Markets, but we went straight to the biggest and oldest one.  

We found the little house and asked for the price, but the guy didn’t want to charge us less, so we kept on walking. We found a nice art piece and the salesman, Mario, made us a good offer, but we wanted to keep on looking, hehe. In the meanwhile Minh met 2 girls he had met in Cusco, how fun!!!! We crossed to other market and asked for paintings, but had no luck. Anyway, it was worth since we found the coasters at a very good price, hehe. I almost felt guilty about got a really cheap price… We saw the house too, but couldn’t get a good deal, so we went back to the 1^st market to get the paintings and try again with the house and ash thrashers. We have already found the perfect model, but not everyone offers it. So bad, we both like unique things hehe.

We went back to Mario. The original price was S/.150 and after talking to him and giving him a sad look, he agreed to charge S/.115.- hehe. We did it!!! Now, time to look for the house. The guy didn’t want to charge us less, so we decided to go back to the 2^nd market for it. There we got a good deal with the ash thrashers and got a discount on the house. How cool!!! I became a bargain expert, haha. Minh and I were the perfect shopping team, haha. By the time we were ready it was 4:30pm. Wow! Same as me, he is able to spend a lot of time shopping and looking for the best prices, haha. We were like kids playing and having fun in the stores, haha, talking and laughing. 

Ok, time to eat something. Since it was late and we didn’t want to eat that much. We ended going to one of my favorites cafes in front of Central Park, just walking distance for the Indian Market. We saw a nice combination, which included a Pisco Sour �" Minh needed his daily dose haha �" appetizers, dessert and a cappuccino. We have been chilling out and talking about our travels and experiences. I was telling him about TB and how fun it is. Talking about the Meet Up and people I met through this site. We had a really cool time.  And he confessed me, he was afraid he’d become an addict. Hey! What’s wrong with that? I’m an addict, haha.

Well, this is not the end of Minh’s story. He has 1 day more in Lima, so there might come another entry :)

Today was Minh’s last day in town. He had to be at the airport at 8:30pm, so better start the day early. I managed to reorganize my schedule, so I’d be able to meet him before noon and I succeeded, hehe. I met Minh at 11am. Our plan was going to downtown. He has already been there, but just at night and driven by a bus, so he couldn’t take as many pictures as he would have liked to. So, it was time to fix it, hehe. We took a cab and drove to Plaza de Armas “Main Square”.

I should say first, that is has been my first time showing around downtown. Usually I don’t do it, but I think I will include it in my future plans, since we had a great time and I found downtown so nice! Anyway, first stop: The Cathedral! Minh wanted to go inside, so we did it! It was really beautiful and fun at same time. It was so cool being with him. Same as me, he likes to take crazy pics, so we were breaking the rules to get great shots, haha. I became a guide and while we were walking around, he listened to some music. What was that? It was noon! So it was the guard’s change at the Government Palace. We run and could watch it. It was so nice. We arrived just in time with groups from schools too, hehe. Oh! I have to say that although it’s winter, we had a great sunny day! Minh was teasing me, saying he brought the sun to Lima and tomorrow it might be cloudy, well we’ll see hehe.

Ok, which one will be the 2^nd stop? The Catacombs!!!! We have been talking about that the day before and it was a MUST. We walked 4 blocks and arrived to St. Francisco Church. We were supposed to walk all the time with a group. You are not allowed to walk by yourself. But nobody could stop us, haha. We were just hanging out by ourselves looking for the Catacombs and we found the entrance. It was amazing!!! My last time there was a couple of years ago, but the Catacombs always amaze me.  We got great shots! Even when we weren’t supposed to take pics, hehe. One took the pic, while the other one was watching nobody was coming, so much fun!!! Definitely I recommend visiting that place if you are in Lima :)

We went back to the Main Square, looking for a store where we could buy “Cocadas” (a Peruvian dessert / candy) made of coconut, since Minh loves coconut, haha. Mmm, it was getting late and better have lunch first and leave the cocadas for snack or dessert, mmm. We saw a nice balcony in the Main Square and noticed it was a restaurant. We went into it and found a table just at the balcony, perfect spot! I’ll write a review of this place later, but I need to say first that it was cheap. They offered a combination of appetizer, entrée, dessert & beverage for less than US$9!!! The food might not have been the best, but you can’t beat that view! We had lunch and were talking about our lives, past trips, future plans, hobbies, family, etc.

Ok, we were ready to keep on going, there was still one place to visit. But in our way we found a lady selling the Cocadas, yeah!!!! I wasn’t wrong, Minh loved them!!! So, we kept on walking and arrived to Pza San Martin (San Martin Square). Before crossing and going into the square properly. I told Minh about another Peruvian dessert “Turron de Dona Pepa”. I was talking about that, because the oldest and best is sold in a small bakery at the square. We went to the bakery and I asked the seller for a small portion, just to try it, because they sell it for kg! The seller cut a small piece. I asked him how much it was and he told me it was for free, hehehe. Minh liked it and while we were enjoying it, we crossed to the square. It was such a beautiful and sunny day, that we just took a sit and chilled out there for a while. We kept on talking about everything and laughing about the crazy things each of us was saying, haha. It was getting late and Minh needed still to pack, so better going back to his apartment.

Gipy, his friend, was going to arrive later, so we would hang out for a while.  First of all, check TB, haha. We were just hanging out when I got a phone call, who was there? Jim!!!! He was in Cusco and was back in Lima – cool!!!!! He was nearby and I asked him to come and join us for a while. Minh was amazed by the fact I was meeting another TB that day. Well, actually not much surprised. After being hanging out with me last days, he realized how much I am into the site, haha.  We were just talking when someone rang the bell. It was Jim!!! And suddenly a Mini Meet Up, haha. Actually it was a short one, but quality over quantity.  Jim was telling us about how he found Cusco and that he decided to stay in Lima for a long time, maybe 2 months, cool!!! He became a Lima’s TB, haha.

It was time to say good bye to Minh. I will miss him! We had a great time last couple of days and I enjoyed downtown a lot today. I haven’t done it in such a long time. Thanks Minh!!! You have a friend in Lima and next time  I'm near Austin, I'll contact you. That's for sure!!! Now you won't get rid of me, hehe.

Jim and I left the apartment and it was time to look for sandals Jim wanted to buy, haha. Shopping time, haha. But it was easy, just 1 item. We found them quickly and Jim wanted a snack, mmm. Peruvian candies? Haha, I know a place where you can find different Peruvian desserts/candies from the North of the Country. We went there and got King Kong (a sort of cake with Peanuts, Pineapple jam and cream Caramel in the middle) and coconut candies. Jim hasn’t been able to try many Peruvian desserts, yet. Well, I’ll fix that in the next few days, haha. 

Jim needed to buy some groceries, so we went to the supermarket. He was going to prepare a Chicago’s Pizza. Unfortunately I couldn’t stay for that. I have been out the whole day and Gunther was missing his mom.  It has been a long day, but full of fun and tomorrow will be another fun day too. Who am I meeting next????

As many other places, this restaurant offers the possibility of mixing the Peruvian Cousine with a Peruvian show of dances. I visited it for first time with Minh and enjoyed the place. Although I have to be honest and said, I attended to better shows. For example, the greatest one is in Downtown, which makes it not so easy to access, besides you have to buy the tickets with 1 week in advance the latest. But this restaurant is very well located, in a really nice mall, very easy and safe to access, besides it's not so hard to find place. Other important thing is the fact that the stage is not at same level as the tables, so everyone can enjoy the show. Also, they have tv's where you can watch the details. The show lasts 2 hours and during the show you will listen music and see dances from coast and highlands. At same time you can taste a Peruvian Buffet. We didn't do it, so I can't say anything about the food. Although they gave us a pisco, which was good! The place is full with tourists, who enjoy the performance of the typical dances and are invited to dance with them. I was invited and danced too :) The staff is friendly and take care of every detail. They will approach to you and ask where you come from, so your table will get a flag from the country you are from. The atmosphere is very nice too, plus it has a wonderful view! The furniture is new and has a good style. It's elegant, but also comfortable. The stage is in the center and the tables are surrounding it. Also, they are 3 stations of food, so there wouldn't be long lines. They also have a bar and a small lounge, so you can wait there until you go to your sits. But the night doesn't end after the show. A singer will perform typical dances. The show is on from Thursday - Saturday. Better call and make a reservation to get a good spot! Oh! and it can be a bit expensive compared to others.

Loki is good for people traveling in groups. Most of their guests are a pair at least. It's a huge place and the bar is on the roof level, so you can't hear all the noise when you're in your room, so that's good. It seems to be a great place to party really hard and play drunken pool or foosball every night. Not a lot of people engage strangers in friendly conversation, so if you're they somewhat timid type (me), you might have a time having buddies. HOWEVER, I did kind of trip over another, smaller hostal 2 blocks away Red Psycho Llama, which I will review if it's in the travel data base. Loki's location is excellent, security is good, you can buy your own lock for large lockers in dorms and small lockers in reception. I suggest you bring your own pillow.