How Peru Sprouted My Love for Travel
When I think about traveling back before the pandemic, there is a lot I took for granted. From the open atmosphere, to dancing in the streets, to the tiny markets that were family-owned, there was so much to take in and appreciate when visiting a new place.
The little moments are so important. It has been quite a year full of so much unknown and unexpected. I would like to think I dive into each day with gratitude and fulfillment, but we can all get caught up sometimes. That is where growth comes in. Traveling has helped me to grow and mature so much. My trip to Peru three years ago all started with a call from one of my best friends, and the tickets were booked that night. I was the best third wheel my friends could ask for. They are still going strong as a couple, but, unfortunately, I didn’t find love there. However, I did fall in love with every inch of Lima and Cusco!
We began our trip in Lima. One of the most popular places to visit in Lima is called El Parque del Amor. Not only did the walk to this area of the park of love radiate passion, but a kind of stillness that you want to live over and over again. It was filled with so much color, architecture, and happiness. It helped me evaluate who I was allowing in my life and what impact they had. I always suggest spending a moment to do the same!
What I didn’t know at the time was that this 8-day journey would spark such a light in me. I always knew I wanted to see the world and meet people from all walks of life, but I didn’t know what that would look like. What I was sure of was that I would always say yes to any opportunity that pushed me to discover more. I discovered that there is more to learn than what we were raised knowing, that life doesn’t wait on anyone, and that we have to make our reality something worth living.
Walking down the cobblestone streets in Cusco was an experience I can’t even explain in words. From the vivid colors, the tall cathedrals, and the strong pisco sours, I didn’t want to leave. Our experience in Cusco began in a party hostel that definitely kept us up every night in the best way. We found all the hidden bars and took a day trip to one of the most breathtaking views I have ever seen: Lake Humantay, which sits right off the Salkantay glacier. I was definitely struggling throughout the whole two-hour hike, but I was not disappointed at the top. The water was filled with all shades of blue, the air was so crisp, and instantly made me feel at peace. This is definitely a must-see if you ever find yourself in Peru.
At this point, I was already planning my next trip. It was my first out-of-the-country experience and I couldn’t believe what I was missing out on all of these years. The next stop was one that I never even imagined I would see. I was able to cross one of the wonders of the world off of my bucket list: Machu Picchu, the beautiful site of the ancient Inca ruins. We were able to sit and admire the Andes Mountains while surrounded by the sweetest llamas.
I am forever thankful for the memories and lessons I learned along the way. This trip made me question what I was doing every day to get closer to my dreams, what I had to let go of, and what I valued. I realized that I spent so much time worrying about what I looked like, what other people thought of me, and what I couldn’t control. I made a promise to myself to love every part of me, accept more, and remain humble. I bloomed! Now, I hope you all find your way too.