Cusco to Miraflores (Lima)

Friday, March 13, 2020
Cusco, Cusco, Peru
Issac picked us up at the hotel. He is such a patient, kind man, and, of course, an excellent driver.  Sure enjoyed our time in Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. People have lived here for over 3,000 years so it has a rich history.  Another a fascinating place.
Enjoyed our walks and drives along the cobblestone streets with Hernan and Issac. They make such a great team, and we had such fun with them.
Adiós Mis Amigos Siempre
Lima Airport- arrived at 12:45. One suitcase had big crack across the bottom; looks like it was dropped/run over.  Went back to find someone; no one in baggage or in LaTam's office. Attendant said to make a claim on line.  
CMV again for transport to the hotel. Being picked up inside the fenced in, guarded area is absolutely the best way.
Miraflores JW Marriott Hotel--In order to get adjoining rooms, check-in would have to do some rearranging. Waited in the  lounge, which was fine. The girls on duty, Daniella & Ana, were great! 
Thankfully, we are the only people in here since we need to made phone calls. Unfortunately, a huge glitch in the rest of the trip. A few days ago we heard the  Coronavirus spreading rapidly; ports and airports were going to be closed.  A text from a government worker friend advised getting back in the country as soon as possible. Checked with the Oceania Cruise desk in the lobby but the cruise starting on the 15th had not been canceled. Surprised at this since two other cruise lines already canceled their cruises from here. We are definitely not getting on a cruise ship.  Randy called Oceania in Miami. Long wait time, but finally talked with a girl about getting a flight out on the 15th. Said she would make arrangements and call back (fingers crossed).  

Worth the wait for our room, which was on a corner with 180-degree views of both the ocean and the mountains.
Larcomar Mall, which literally hugs the cliffs above the Pacific ocean hundreds of feet below, is directly across from the Marriott. Tanta's, located in the mall, for dinner; perfect sunset spot at table overlooking ocean. Pretty pink sky and a bit of a sunset; it's usually hazy here.  Shared three appetizers: empanada (lomo saltado), tamalito cilantro, shrimp wantons--all yummy. 

Walked around Locamar Mall; many of the same stores as the US.
Great terrace area to view the coastal lights extending all the way down the bay to the Cross on the hill. Great park here also.
Daniella called the room around 9:40 for us to come to the Lounge; they made a PowerPoint presentation of what we should see tomorrow and marked everything on a map. They loved telling us about their city. Also, taught us how to make the best pisco sour, Peru's national drink. Their bubbly personalities made this so much fun! Their shift was over at 10 and they stayed longer. Such sweethearts!

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2025-05-23

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