Pan de la vida

I love cultures that love food. And Peru would have to be right up there with the best of them. The best thing about Peruvian food is the absolute simplicity. Local Cusco fare is rustic and humble, but tastes out of this world. Key ingredients? Potato, rice, giant maize and bread.

It's an extraordinary experience to wander through the markets (and surrounding streets) of Cusco. Old ladies from Andean villages come down the steep goat tracks from the mountains, with their horses and satchels to set up shop on the floor or on a bench. A pop up store, selling their home grown fruit, veggies or slain meats. Nope. Not exaggerating.

The other thing is, it is really confronting. Too bad if you're a vegetarian, meat is on the menu. And not the prime cuts either. These guys use every last scrap, offal like you've never seen before! Sorry in advance if you're squeamish...

Cusco: cobblestones, cuisine & culture

Cusco was an unexpected surprise. A sprawling city at over 3000 metres above sea level, it instantly leaves you breathless when you arrive. And that's because of the views, not the altitude sickness!

Llamas are the animal/livestock/pet of choice. Such a versatile thing, the fur is used for beanies, scarfs, socks and jumpers. The leather is used for rope, bracelets, saddles and god knows what else. Not to sure what they do with the meat though (too far?!).

In true Peruvian style, the flags are also out in force here. And they even graffitied their patriotic feelings onto the side of a mountain. As you do.

Oh, and there's some real charm in the simplicity of this place. The food is amazing, the people are friendly and the sun is shining. What's not to love?