An Inca Disaster

Now that we're back and settled in, I'm able to get back to my rightful blogger duties. The overall trip was outstanding and there's still so much left to say: I might as well pick up where I left off in Peru, the next stop on our journey was Machu Picchu.

Everyone's first thought when traveling to Peru is guaranteed to be "I have to visit Machu Picchu." However, do we all think about how we're going to get there? Do we understand the consequences of the method we choose? Is this archeological site being appreciated the same way if we decide to be tourists and take the bus up? Well, this is our Machu Picchu story; an adventure filled with blood, sweat, tears and anger, but in the end it's a story which allowed us to experience and appreciate Machu Picchu in a completely different way.

Conner and I decided that the best way to experience Machu Picchu would be to get a full feel of things and trek the Inca trail. This was our first mistake. Our second mistake was thinking that because we were young, we'd be able to  manage the trek without any problem. And our third mistake, well, was being completely unprepared. The Inca trail was gruelling, but I'd say we have no one to blame besides ourselves.

The night before our trek was to begin, we entered a briefing meant to mentally prepare us for the four day hike. Unlike most people, however, Conner and I already believed that we were more than set to conquer the path of the Incas. Our egos were only boosted when we realized we were the only people in our group under twenty-five years old. Both laughing on our way out, feeling completely confident of our physical abilities. Little did we know, we'd be hiking with marathon runners, triathlon competitors and regular sport-hikers. In one sentence, we were screwed. Conner had overpacked (carrying almost as much weight as the porters) and I had underestimated the effects of my asthma. All in all, our egos were not matched by our abilities and we rued the consequences. 

Day one, meant to be an easy day of hiking, mostly "Inca-flat" with a little uphill and an easy pace. Well when you're thousands of meters above sea-level, this is not as easy as it sounds. Basically, your lungs, mind and body need to be in tip-top shape. As hard as it was, we enjoyed a visit from a few furry creatures:

Day two, meant to be the hardest day of hiking, was a nightmare for me. However, it was also my biggest physical accomplishment. First, the half way destination is called "Dead Woman's Pass" - this should've been a clear indicator that the day was not going to be easy. Running on little sleep, Conner was a mess but trucked through it like a champ. I, on the other hand, have never used my inhaler so many times in such a short time period. I felt like my lungs were going to cave in. I mean, I collapsed and cried when I got to the top, nearly an hour after half of my group (including two people in their sixties). BUT, the joke was on them because the rest of the day was downhill and my joints could handle that. We spent night two under the stars with a terrific sunset and an even more beautiful sunrise.

Day three was a relaxing day (moderately) with only half a day of hiking in beautiful weather. It was also the day we got to shower (in freezing cold mountain water, but shower nonetheless). I can say that I've never been that greasy but we all know I'd be lying, it's safe to say I was pretty gross though.

Day four was the 4:00 am run to Machu Picchu, which in itself was worth it. I feel like Machu Picchu is a mystical place filled with wonder and awe. It's a shame that so many tourists have come and gone and the ruins are being worn down. I can honestly say that seeing Machu Picchu wouldn't have been the same without completing the Inca Trail. As hard as it was, it was a journey I couldn't trade for the world. It's a memory that I'll always hold dear to my heart and I would argue, time sparing, it's the only way to go to Machu Picchu. Just make sure you are in excellent shape ;).

4 days, 43 kilometers and 4200 meters of altitude - Just the average week in the life of the Incas,

Meeca

P.S.: Check out this sick picture:

Never 'Goodbye', Only 'See You Again'

Last Day in Cusco, Day 15 Traveling

Saying goodbye can be the hardest part about traveling. Often, when traveling, relationships and trust are built in a short period of time. We meet people who are like-minded, unique and inspiring. I, for one, probably cannot tell you the life story of most of my "best friends" at home. Yet, I could tell the life story of many who I meet on my travels. This level of closeness is hard to match. Now, I'm not saying that I do not appreciate the relationships that I share with my loved ones back home, I am just expressing that I appreciate them differently. In my experience, this is very common and I'm not some overly attached freak; friendships bloom abroad.

Conner and I have lived in this house for two weeks now. Rosío and Wilder opened their home to us and allowed us to live through an experience like no other. We were treated like adults, while still enjoying some comforts of home (home-cooked Peruvian and Spanish style meals, laundry, cleaning, and someone to take care of us). I cannot express how thankful I am to these two genuine people. They put up with a lot on a regular basis and sometimes their kindness is abused, but Conner and I wouldn't have wanted our home in Peru to be any different. 

Thank you, Rosío, for the medicine, the advice, the food and the fun.

Thank you, Wilder, for putting up with us while you attempt to study, for the games and for the experience.

Thank you, housemates, for showing us the ropes in Cusco, for being so kind an welcoming, for helping us out when needed and for being you. You are just as much a part of our Peruvian experience as anyone else in Peru. (But seriously, y'all rock).

The hardest goodbye (as it always is for me) was to my group of munchkins. Now, if you know me, you know I'm not the most emotional person ever and I don't get attached to people easily. Well, throw all of that aside when it comes to my volunteering abroad. I become so attached to the children, it might be unhealthy. In the Maximo Nivel office I read a sign that summed my feelings up perfectly, it said "We taught them English, they taught us about life." I could not say this better myself; these children show me what it actually means to be strong and determined and I cannot even begin to express my gratitude. 

I don't want to leave, but I have to. So, for now, I say farewell and I hope to be back before they forget. They have made my life better just by allowing me to be a part of theirs. 

Making me cry is like an accomplishment; it means that you have touched my heart and will hold a piece of it forever,

Meeca

ABC, it's Easy as 123

Day 13 in Cusco, 2 Weeks Traveling

This is the post I'm most certain everyone has been dying to read. Today, is the post about teaching.

Profesores Conner y Meeca con Eduardo 

We were placed at "Las Cositas" to teach English as a foreign language. Las Cositas is essentially a mother-run trade center. Back in 2008, this trade center was ran by a Dutch NGO and was meant to teach single mothers trades so they could provide for their families. Because of the lack of funds, the NGO shut down the project. A group of eight mothers banded together and are now continuing their trades in a house they have rented communally. 

Up this hill, up the first flight of stairs, around the corner and up two more flights of stairs, a small building can be found. Here, there are women creating fabulous hand-crafted jewelry and children causing a ruckus. 

Our project was to teach the children of these women basic English skills. The women had been taking business English classes through Maximo Nivel, and requested that their children learn English as well. We were their first English teachers, ever. 

After a quick visit and a crash TEFL course we were off to teach our wonderful language! 

José-Antonio learning to count in English.

(With twins Gerardo and Eduardo standing by, awaiting their turn at the white board.)

Conner and I are teaching children between the ages 1 and 12, who are clearly all at different levels. Our class size can range from three students to a maximum of sixteen. This may seem small; however, with the range in levels of abilities, the task was a bit more difficult. We decided to divide the children into three groups: the unspeakables, the basic and the advanced. 

Creating three separate learning plans.

The unspeakables are those children who have yet to learn to speak in Spanish yet. They understand basic Spanish commands, but are not quite ready to be grouped into an English class. These are my babies.

Daniel and Vanessa: sisters in mean-mugging crime.

Daniel and my nameless one year old. Too much cute to handle!

The basics are pretty much the rest of my class. These children range from 3 to 9 and are keen learners. They have a functioning understanding of Spanish and are ready to tackle learning a new language. Although the skill level within this group continues to range, this group is closer together. 

Cinthia, José-Ba, Gerardo and Jean-Franco goofing off at the end of a long lesson.

All my lovelies hard at work learning the colours! 

Last, we have Conner's group: the advanced. This is basically a private tutor session. Here, is our only 12 year old, Luis-Michel, who knows basic English and is flying through our far-too-easy exercises. Conner, instead, is teaching him parts of speech and beginning English grammar. 

It can get a bit chaotic at times, considering so many young children are stuffed in a small classroom after a long day of school.

Just letting off some steam.

Sometimes, though, kids just need a chance to goof off and have fun!

Today is our last day of teaching, unfortunately. Due to a Cusco festival known as Corpus Christi, our classes have been cancelled both Thursday and Friday. I'm pretty bummed. No matter how much trouble these munchkins give me sometimes, I'm going to miss all the struggles and silliness.

Shameless selfies. These are my munchkins. <3

I want to come back and continue this project, because I feel as though it's our baby. These are actually our students, we laid the ground work and now we have to leave. Whether I am able to come back or not, I wish these children the best of luck. Their kind hearts and determined minds are beautiful. They deserve all the help they can receive. 

And in the end, I'll miss the smiles the most,

Meeca

PS: I'd like to give a shout-out to the creator of Toms shoes. You, kind sir, are an amazing person. If anyone has ever doubted the Toms philosophy, now is the time to stop. I have never been so proud to be the owner of a pair of Toms shoes. Nor have I ever been so touched by a materialistic object; my munchkins wear Toms!

This Little Piggy Went to the Market

Day 6 in Cusco, Day 7 Traveling

Hi friends!

I'm a little bit behind, so bear with me here; I'm doing my best, but the days are packed! Please enjoy this picture as a distraction:

Cusco!

On Sunday, as I said in my previous post we decided to visit Pisac (a quaint village in the Sacred Valley). We found that the best way to travel to and from Pisac is by bus because it's much cheaper than a taxi (only s./ 5 per person) and they travel to and from rather frequently. As far as I could tell, no one is ever waiting for a bus for long. The views during the bus ride are spectacular, so we advise a window seat (if possible) and staying awake. The mountains, small towns and valleys are not something anyone would want to miss.

When we got to Pisac, we were dropped off just over the bridge on the main road (pretty much the only road for traffic within the center of town), it was just a short walk uphill until our eyes were met with the beauties of the Plaza de Armas de Pisaq. In the center is a food market, where you can find hundreds of potatoes, beans and fruits and vegetables in large woven sacs lining the ground. Women (mostly) sit with their produce all day! (That's dedication!) We were lucky to have time on an official market day (Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday), so the selection was not lacking; however, there is a market daily. Just walking around, we really got a feel for the atmosphere. It's a beautiful town. Be sure to go beyond the market and check out some of the walking paths and views. It's incredible BUT it is all up hill! Wear good shoes, bring lots of water and push the limits; now's not the time to get lazy.

Conner's awesome panoramic shot from those ghastly stairs (when you go, you'll get it)

The market, as I said, is huge and the selection isn't lacking. So, we found it best to shop around before buying. In Pisac, they try to charge way more than anywhere else because they get so much tourist traffic. Don't be silly though, bargain! Never take the initial price, it's definitely too high, but don't be too stingy; these people need to make a living too. 

A lane in the Pisac Market Place

Photo credits: Conner

My favourite thing about Pisac, though, was all the adorable children running around while their parents bargained. I did the creepy thing and attempted to take pictures. I'm sorry, but they're just too cute!

Last, I have to mention all the goodies around! I had read about this place called Horno Típico de Santa Lucía, well, it turns out that these are two separate restaurants. We opted for Horno Típico because it had this charming clay oven lined with empanadas, and I simply could not resist! We ordered 1 jambón con queso (s./4), 1 pollo (s./3) and 1 queso (s./3) and they were all delicious. I suppose they resemble something close to pizza pockets, but they are definitely much better than that. We also ordered two mango juices, but it was more like mango yoghurt sipped through a straw. Just keep that in mind! Also, we didn't really know how to ask for a menu, so be sure to have a relatively good working knowledge of Spanish. The young boy tries his best, but there's only so much he can understand.

Not that it's common knowledge or anything, but I like food. I like food, a lot. So one and a half empanadas didn't quite do it for me, I was still hungry. For just s./3 we were able to buy myself some giant corn on the cob with a side of cheese (sounds weird, I know, but just try it!). The corn had a taste that was somewhat like creamed corn- but better. The kernels were huge. We had to pick them off with our fingers to eat. Also, for all you Quebecers who want a slice of home, the cheese they serve it with is like poutine cheese! It comes in a triangle, but it's salty, squeaky and yummy. Don't pass the opportunity up, the smell of corn throughout the market is tempting enough.

Panorama in front of the corn fields.

Photo credits: Conner

It didn't take us long to feel tired, so it was time to head home after three hours within the village. We seem to just be really tired often, so we were bound to take a nap. Don't worry though, we're not wasting valuable Peruvian time. Siestas are normal!

I have so much to say about the food, our teaching placement and Cusco in general, but it'll have to wait, as I have Spanish homework and teaching activities to plan!

This little piggy went wee wee wee, all the way home,

Meeca

PS: I got my luggage! Bring on the peanut butter, baby!

Is it Possible that the Shower Electrocuted Me?

Day 3 in Cusco, Day 5 traveling.

                 Flying over Ecuador

Upon leaving Quito, my heart was heavy and I was purely filled with frustration and anger. I was arriving in Cusco luggageless and exhausted, it did not seem to be good news. Thankfully, TACA Airlines makes up for United being such shitty assholes, we got French toast AND Suits (Mmm Mike) in just a two hour ride. So thank you TACA, you made my traveling to Peru a little less terrible. I can't tell you much about the flight to Lima, because I was out cold. All around good time.

Arriving in Cusco is an experience like no other. The views out my plane window were all around spectacular; the surrounding mountains, the hilltop sanctuaries and the half-built houses. Each of these things made me realize that no matter what, Cusco was the right choice. Everywhere you look, no matter where you are in the city, the views are absolutely captivating. It's incomparable; it's a beauty of it's own. 

This picture is taken from Central Cusco.

(First successful iPhone panorama shot!)

Unfortunately, my luggage has yet to make it to Cusco. Thankfully, my mom has been hard at work hassling United Airlines and it's already in Lima. I just have to go to the airport to sign some papers and voila! customs with send it my way! THANKS MOMMY <3 I'll keep y'all updated!

Upon our arrival in Cusco we were met by some absolutely lovely representatives from Maximo Nivel. They gave us a quick run down of how to use taxis, showed us to the headquarters and finally, brought us to the our volunteer home stay. I have to say that I love this house! Rosío and Wilder are the best Peruvian padres I could've asked for. But that's not even the best part, there are 11 other volunteers here; all super cool, down to earth and friendly. We couldn't have asked for better people to show us the ropes! We love our placement! (Especially with hot water, good food and comfy beds).

Since we arrived on a Friday, we spent the majority of it sleeping, and by Saturday, everyone else was headed to Machu Picchu. So, we decided to explore the city ourselves! We made our way down to central Cusco in a taxi for only s./ 3. Then we stopped by for a quick tour of Maximo Nivel (they have awesome staff) and we were on our own to explore! Conner was beyond hungry, so the first thing on the list was to find food. We stumbled upon a cute little Peruvian restaurant near the Waterfall Monument. The restaurant was full of Peruvians eating pescado con arroz, so we knew it was a good choice! Unfortunately, neither of us were in an adventurous mood, so fish was not on our menu, but,  the food was delicious and we both practically chugged our limonada frossen. We'd recommend it if we ever knew the name. Just look for the hole in the wall behind the handicrafts market!

Next, we checked out the handicrafts market, here are some of our sweet purchases:

An Inca chess set, my alpaca sweater at s./ 30, alpaca socks at s./ 8 and Conner's sweater (purchased in Pisac) at s./ 50. Everything is super cheap and crazy nice! I will definitely be returning for more alpaca swag, particularly a blanket! Watch for news and pictures. :)

We also came across the convent and Iglesia Santo Domingo. With an ISIC card it's only a s./ 5 entry (as opposed to s./ 10), so if you're a student, get on that! This place was also spectacular! The history of the Inca empire was ever present, the artwork was beyond amazing and the views from the lookout were to die for. We'd love to share with you what we were lucky enough to see with our own eyes.

Iglesia Santo Domingo & the two sides      of the Waterfall Monument

We were then noticing that the altitude was starting to take its toll. We have been taking altitude sickness pills and had not really felt any effects (aside from some tingling in our fingertips and feet), but a full day of walking the streets exhausted us. We had some delicious local ice cream (try the lúcuma and maro flavours!) and headed back home to Majesteria. 

When we got home, it was time for a siesta followed by a delicious home cooked meal. Conner then received a chance to try the local alcohol, Pisco, and fully embraced it. One of the boys, Austin, made me some delicious Coca tea (yes, tea made from cocaine leaves) for my headache and we took the night pretty low-key.

The next day we headed out to Pisac and today we had our project orientation. Unfortunately, I'm exhausted from such a long day and have an early rise for a quick airport run. Keep checking, I won't fail to tell you every detail!

Yes, it was a minor electrification, just remember not to but your hands too close to the shower head,

Meeca 

PS: United owes me a 250$ clothing voucher. Right on!

Houston, we have a problem.

No clever quotes, no sentimental posts, no fun. Tonight, I'm not beating around the bush, I'm going to give it to everyone nice and clear.

First things first, I'm a terrible blogger and I apologize greatly for neglecting my blogging responsibilities. I will try to do better in the future.

Secondly, I am "en route" to Peru. At this moment, I am sitting, enjoying a nice creamy vanilla milkshake at Johnny Rockets in the Quito Airport (Ecuador). This is a pleasant pick-me-up, seeing as my experience has been pretty horrific so far. 

My biggest fear while traveling has always been that somewhere, some company would lose my luggage; not to crash, not for my plane to be hijacked and not even to get kidnapped. Bless my heart, this hadn't happened to me in the past. However, on this trip, I have not been so lucky. Somewhere between Montreal, Houston and Quito my luggage has disappeared. Not cool United Airlines. Now, I'm not going to point fingers or anything, but I'm totally blaming the mishap in Houston for my luggage not being transferred. We, "apparently" collided with a bird upon our initial lift off in Houston, Texas. So, the pilot thought it would be best to land the plane and have airport maintenance check everything out. Which was fine by me. What I was not to happy about was the three hour delay, attendant change and plane transfer. I understand planes a big flying machines, but common'! People had places to go. Thankfully, I was not one of these people (my layover was supposed to last 8 hours), but apparently my luggage didn't have anywhere to go either. As it is, most probably, still in Houston. 

It's been a long day; I'm grumpy and scummy, so I might be overreacting, but I would like to give United Airlines two GIANT middle fingers. The staff, generally, was twice as grumpy as I am now. The two plane rides were rocky. We didn't get fed. We were initially supposed to pay 8$ for in-flight television. And now they lost my luggage. I am not impressed, and most probably will not fly United again. It has been the worst flying experience thus far (and I've been on a plane that literally bounced and lift-off and landing).

On the bright side, if you remember my last post, I wrote about the people we meet while traveling. Well, I met this lovely girl who goes by the name Nicole on my flight. She was seated with my boyfriend and I, and was absolutely kind and delightful. I cannot put it any other way. In only a few short hours, I felt completely comfortable around this woman. She is also quite the traveler and I think she can offer more insight than I can in a few areas, so, check out her blog:

www.bradfieldsadventure.blogspot.com

That is my silver lining. I'm just counting on seeing those cute little Peruvian faces,  hearing the adorable Spanish accents and just taking the entire experience in.

In the meantime, I'll be posting whenever I have Internet and the time! If you want updates and news, check here! You can also follow me on Instagram (@sqeeks). I'll surely be posting pictures!

Here's to hoping my luggage catches up with me,

Meeca

There Are People and Places That I'll Never Forget

"One of the great things about travel is that you find out how many good, kind people there are." - Edith Wharton

While traveling, especially with a group, you encounter all different kinds of people. You are faced with those who you are traveling with, those you meet along the way, and those whose home you are visiting; all of whom are going to be blurred faces or long time friends. Either way, they have helped to make your visit unique. The people I met in Thailand are sincerely some of the greatest people I have ever met. From all different backgrounds, these people are what made my trip worth while. I am glad to call the my friends and acquaintances. Thank you, to all those who I encountered on my journey in Thailand, for helping me experience the Land of Smiles.

Look forward to my next post about International Student Volunteers, their service, the accommodations, the food and review of the actual activities I took part in. In the mean time, check out my Bucket List to read about some of the activities ahead of time!

The people you meet abroad are the people who helped make your trip memorable,

Meeca