Observations

I had another great week in Cusco. I don't have any big news or cool pictures today, but figured I would write down some random observations.

Peruvian time: As I half-jokingly told Berto today, he would fit in perfectly here. I've learned that there is really no pressure to be on time or do anything in a timely manner. My Spanish class starts at 10am, which really means we might get started by 10:15. After my first week of arriving at class at 9:58 and sitting by myself for 15 minutes, I have learned to not arrive at class until at least 10:10. I've also learned to not expect waiters to pay much attention to me. Want to get your menu? Expect to wait at least 10 minutes. Ready to order another drink? You are better off going to the bar and ordering yourself. This concept of time is new to me, and it has been a little hard to get used to. But it is also really refreshing and a much-welcomed break from the gogogo of Chicago.

Locals' extreme overdressing: The weather here is beautiful. It is hot and sunny for most of the day with the occasional rain shower. Cusco is the place on earth with the highest ultraviolet light level. So if the sun is shining, you are HOT. Yet I have not seen one single local in a pair or shorts, or rarely a t-shirt. Daily, they are bundled up in sweaters, fleeces, winter jackets, and the Quechua women wear legwarmers. It continues to amaze me that I am sweating excessively in jeans and a t-shirt and people are passing by me wearing leather jackets and scarves.

I'm a gringa: In many places in the city, it's very common to see a bunch of tourists aka white people aka gringos. However, in other places and on my bus to work everyday, I am the sole white person and the locals (affectionately) call me gringa.

Everyone is on my level! Cusquena people are short. You won't see any local, man of woman, above 5'9" in Cusco. I personally am loving it! But for my taller housemates and volunteers, it can be difficult. There is barely any leg room in buses and anyone above 5'5" can't stand up straight on a bus. Evan, a guy I volunteer with is over 6 foot. When he stood up to get off the bus yesterday, a kid on the bus pointed and yelled "gigante!" It was pretty funny. Lee- Cusco is perfect for you!


Sorry for the underwhelming post. Tomorrow I am going to the Pisac ruins, so an interesting post with pictures is coming!