The Inca were a great civilization, but their rule was hardly egalitarian. I suppose I see a willed blindness on the part of some Peruvians to ignore that, and other inconvenient truths of history. It’s become a part of their identity to exalt that era. Partly for political reasons, partly to do with issues of national self-esteem.

BTW: about the cold emergency in the Andes, if you hear of any local businesses or institutions in Cusco that are bringing medical supplies, blankets, clothing, etc. to affected communities (and are accepting donations), please let me know. So many tourists pass through Cusco and I am sure that some would like to help out with the relief effort, if they knew where to drop off stuff, like a jacket or a blanket (easy to stuff in a suitcase).

For more mind-boggling inaccuracies, check out the last Indiana Jones movie, which situates Cusco next to the Nazca lines. It’s not only careless travel writers who make these mistakes. Hollywood does it too.

Yes, as I’ve posted before, I am a fan of the Peace Corps blogs. I met a few PC workers/vols last year in San Eualalia and was very moved by their tales from the field. Their blogs give a realistic, non-santized view of life in the provinces and Lima slums. Quite refreshing to read if you want to know the real Peru.

Isabel, thanks from me and APooper for the good wishes. He makes us laugh too.

and send my regards to little Anderson POOPer who has made us laugh so much !!!!!!!

Most travel blogs, unless the writer is extraordinarily talented, are a bore. They barely brush the surface, and give little to no insight into the target country’s culture. And don’t even get me started on the historical inaccuracies… visits to “Incan ruins” at Chan Chan, or “cultures older than the Incas” at Marcahuasi…

Far better to read this blog, Enperu, and the blogs of various peace corp volunteers.