Taking it easy in Lima

LIMA

We decided to fly to Lima instead of taking a 12 hour bus ride. At only $20 extra, it was a no brainer.

We arrived in Lima on the 18th March and determined to find a post office so that we could send a few things home. All done and off to the beach. Well..... a stroll along the beach because the water has been declared unsuitable for swimming. However, local surfers are not put off because of this little detail.

We were staying in the wealthy and most important suburb area of Miraflores. Our hostel wasn't great but the owners were very helpful and informative about Peruvian culture. Amongst wining and dining near the Parque Kennedy which is full of lively bars, we spent most of our time at the Parque Salazar (Centro Comercial Larcomar). This is just what we wanted after Machu Piccu- to be entertained. People watching at this American style complex full of hip cafes, ocean view restaurants, expensive shops and a 12 screen cinema, kept us busy for a couple of days. Wealthy locals dressed in the latest clothing parade around looking glam.....could have been in Chelsea!!

We didn't spend too much time in the city centre because parts of it are run down or undergoing restoration. We did get to see a changing of the guards ceremony outside the Palacio de Gobierno.

We also hit the Casino. I got the hang of "Black Jack" and won a few times whilst Jurgen did extremely well on the Roulette table....

We spent 3 days in Lima then took the overnight bus to Trujillo - 8-9 hours.

Miraflores was a great place to recharge our batteries!

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