Arequipa

hostel patio
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I awoke just before the sun began to peek above the horizon of the ocean.  The bus was winding back and forth alonge the twisty costal road as we made our way slowly up and into the cliffside inland toward Arequipa.  The fishing boats were already out on the sea and the waves continued their ceasless attack on the rocky bluffs protruding from the water.  I had spluged after my last miserable bus ride, opting for the "VIP" seats, and it was worth it.  I drifted back to sleep in my large seat and awoke again as we were nearing Arequipa.  The hostel I have chosen is amazing, it is located right in the heart of the city and has a small, charming rooftop patio, that provides views of the mountains on the outskirts of town.  The first day arriving, I spent a good four hours reading and writing as I took in the sounds of the birds and the city.

view from the top
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The monestary of San Catalina is about one half block from my hostel, and historically, is the site of probably one of the most lavish lifestyles ever pursued by a group of nuns.  Founded by a very wealthy woman of the cloth, she would only accept women from the wealthiest familys to live with her in her monestary.  There was a large dowry involved, and this went to help fund the luxuries to which they were accostumed.  The building takes over an entire city block and is filled with small passageways, staircases to nowhere, numerous kitchens and amazingly unique structures throughout the entire compound.  It proved to be a great spot to spend a few hours, exploring and wandering through the mazelike structure.

The fishing boats were already out on the sea and the waves continued their ceasless attack on the rocky bluffs protruding from the water.

monestary courtyard
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The past two mornings, I have been waking up early as the sun is rising to get a good glimpse of the mountains on the outskirts of town.  In the mornings when it is clear you can see some of the canyons that have been carved over the years scatterd about the footprint of these 4-5 thousand meter peaks. The mountains have been calling to me, and I am now in the process of organizing a climb.  The other main attraction of Arequipa is the colca canyon.  Twice as deep as the grand canyon and a favorite spot of the giant condor, Colca canyon offers many great views and experiences, and my trip to Arequipa will not be complete until I partake.