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Showing posts from June, 2022

Language

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Spanish is the main language of Peru, along with Quechua and Aymara. The local people you meet will most likely speak very little English. Before your trip it’s a good idea to learn some Spanish phrases and carry a travel-size dictionary.  Raising your voice while repeating your question to a Spanish speaking person won’t help the situation.  Patience, hand gestures, and writing down the names of places can usually do the trick and most people are happy to try to help you out.

Clothing

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In general, Peru is a traditional country and as a traveler it’s best to  dress the part . What you consider a cute little outfit might be rude to Peruvian culture and insulting to some people in Peru, especially in churches.  When in doubt, cover more skin to avoid drawing attention.

Greetings

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 Greetings   in Peru are quite important! For women, between friends, whether male or female, it is normal to give a kiss on the cheek (air kiss). If they are close friends or family this is usually accompanied by a hug. Between men, the greeting is normally a handshake with a pat on the back or a one-armed hug. This is usually paired with an  hola  and  buenos días  (good morning) if it’s before noon, or  buenas tardes  (good afternoon/evening) if it’s between noon and 7pm. It is also common to ask  cómo estás?  for how are you? (or  cómo está  if formal) or a  qué tal?  for how’s it going? To talk to people older than you, it is a sign of respect to address them as  señor  or  señora  before their first name.

Operating on Peruvian Time

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When it comes to social events, it may be helpful to know that many people from Peru operate on “Peruvian time.”  In other words, it is normal to arrive late. If you make plans to meet your new Peruvian friends for dinner at 7:30 p.m., chances are they will show up closer to 8 p.m. Don't be mad if your friends show up late! Official business or travel matters, such as a flights and buses, are not late, so make sure to show up on time!

Machu Picchu

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Many travellers come to Peru to see these impressive Inca ruins on a   Machu Picchu tour . However, it’s important to remember that for locals, these are more than just ruins, they are sacred, historical places.  Here are some guidelines for respecting Machu Picchu: Of course, do not litter! Stay on the marked trails. Do not touch or lean on the ruins. Do not bring food in. Tip your guides and porters. Keep the selfies chill. No jumping (which can wear down the ground you are walking upon) or taking silly pictures Leave tripods, drones and selfie sticks at home. They are not permitted. Remember there are no toilets within the ruins, so be sure to use the bathroom before entering.

Religion in Peru

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  Today, Roman Catholicism is the main religion in Peru. You can find Roman Catholic churches everywhere – from the largest of cities to the tiniest of villages. This religion was brought by the Spanish during the 16th century, and today about 80 percent of Peruvians are Catholic.  Many Peruvians still blend their faith with traditional rituals, such as still honoring Inti, Father Sun and Mother Earth as part of their festivals and offerings. 

Ancient Rituals

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The beliefs of modern Peruvians have deep roots in Inca stories and legends. One example is the respect for high mountain peaks, which are considered sacred and believed to be the homes of powerful spirits called apus. Today people make offerings to the apus by gathering food, drink, coca leaves, and other plants as a symbol of gratitude for all that the spirits provide. There are also many ancient rituals around Mother Earth. The rituals are done on August 1st, which is a special day. On this day, there are massive ceremonies, offerings and rituals, following the Andean practice of  ayni , or giving back to the earth goddess.

Andean Tradition

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  On a trip to Peru you’ll likely come across the word   Quechua . The Quechua are the indigenous peoples, and they are descendants of the Incas.  In the present-day, they make up several indigenous groups scattered throughout South America. The Quechua culture is still found in the music, dance, dress, food and language of the Andean region in Peru. The colourful Andean textiles sold in shops in Peru have become a popular souvenir among travellers. They play an important role in many Andean community cultures. Women usually wear skirts and coats, while men often wear colourful ponchos. To make these textiles, the wool of llamas, alpacas and sheep is spun, dyed, and woven into beautiful blankets and clothing. These textiles display complex patterns and designs that show symbols and myths that are important to the people. Andean culture is also seen in the cuisine. The appearance of cuy, or guinea pig, on a restaurant menu may come as a shock to some travellers.  Guinea pigs are not con