The Question:

To which Peruvian cocktail is tomorrow dedicated?

The Answer:

Tomorrow, the first saturday in February, is officially National Pisco Sour Day!

Made from limes, ice, egg white, sugar syrup and Pisco, Peruvians hold an immense deal of pride for this cocktail, to the extent that it is considered to be Peru’s National Drink.

And for good reason. The refreshing cocktail is both quite unique and very sophisticated: the bitter tang of fresh lime is complimented wonderfully by the sweetness of the syrup and strength of the Pisco, all blended together in an impossibly smooth and frothy texture which goes down like a treat before lingering on the palette.

Notable buzz surrounds the event, with a number of Pisco Sour festivals set for tomorrow in key plazas and neighbourhoods across the city, including the Plaza de Armas, with many revelers expected to attend.

Pisco: Pride of Peru

In a sign of the deep appreciation that Peruvians have for Pisco Sour, a recent advertising campaign aimed at the international market has seen success in pitting the drink against other famous spirits from across the world – namely whisky, tequila and vodka – in quite humorous fashion:

And this very morning, Top chef Gaston Acurio made a special tribute to Pisco Sour on his hugely popular facebook page to a rapturous reception:

Which can be roughly translated as:

“Pisco Sour, a Peruvian creation made with Peruvian products on the verge of becoming a global product. One step from being found not only in Peruvian restaurants but in all bars, restaurants and hotels in the world. A little piece of the heart of Peru in the most sophisticated locations in the world. An example of this New Peru, renovated, unique, magic, ideas that come direct from Peruvian identity, and that the world buys and incorporates into their lives. For this, and because it strengthens our confidence in ourselves, today Peru celebrates with a Pisco Sour in hand. Congratulations to Pisco producers, lime farmers and the barmen who make the drink of the Peruvian flag.”

Much like Pisco: powerful stuff. On that note I’m going for a Pisco Sour… if you want to make your own look here,  and if you’re coming to Peru then ask us about our Pisco tasting tour “In Good Spirit”, one of our many Peruvian Cuisine Trips … ¡Salud!

The Question:

Where in Bolivia is a Baroque Music Festival held every two years?

The Answer:

Every two years there is a Baroque Music Festival held at the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos in south eastern Bolivia. The festival is a fantastic way to experience the diverse and multilingual culture of the region, with the recital of the works of a variety of classic composers such as Vivaldi, Handel, Bach and Purcell (to name but a few) as well as original compositions by local people in a remote part of the Bolivian rainforest.

The festival was first conceived of after several thousand original sheets of music dating from the 17th and 18th centuries were discovered in the 1970′s during the restoration of the six missions churches at Chiquitos and Moxos. Composed by both European and indigenous composers alike, the works embodied a precious cultural treasure, evidence of the dedication to musical tradition in these fabulously adorned mission churches. The missions were subsequently recognised by UNESCO as “monuments of the cultural heritage of mankind” in 1990.

The idea behind the Baroque Music Festival is to preserve and promote the unique musical tradition of this part of Bolivia. Local people have had an outstanding ability to assimilate complex European musical instruments and scores, showcasing a unique musical revival taking place in one of the world’s least developed regions. And the fascinating concept of live classical music being played in this beautiful and diverse tract of nature is a joyous and glorious occasion, a real treat for those travellers who make the effort to attend.

2012’s festival, the ninth edition, will take place between the 26th of April and the 6th of May. Anybody interested in visiting should contact us to plan their itinerary, as Bolivia Travel Specialists we can not only take you to Santa Cruz in comfort and style but combine your visit with other attractions such as Lake Titicaca and the spectacular Salar de Uyuni salt flats.

Which Peruvian city celebrates its 477th anniversary today?

The Answer:

Founded by Spanish Conquistador Francisco Pizarro on the 18^th of January 1535, Lima today celebrates its 477^th anniversary!!

The occasion was marked with a large party in the central plaza last night to celebrate. The evening began with a fantastic spectacle: 400 different artists performed onstage to represent the diverse mix of cultures that characterise the city, including flamenco guitarists, provincial music groups, traditional dancers and paso horses.

Revellers then counted down to 12 o’clock with a “grand serenade of lima” featuring music from the popular group la Sarita , the Creole singer Cecilia Barraza and the folkloric singer Amanda Portales.

An eclectic history

Lima was the prized and sumptuous capital of the sprawling Spanish colonial empire in South America from the 16th to 19th centuries, the administrative centre for vast swathes of land across several modern-day South American countries. Due to the proximity of the date to the Spanish holiday “dia de los reyes magos” or day of the three kings, it was given the name the ‘City of the Kings’.

The city’s past supremacy is revealed in its civil and religious buildings which still stand and are well-preserved, such as the Monastery of San Francisco, the Palace of Torre Tagle and the Plaza de Acho, the bull ring as well as many important churches.

Photos of Lima in all its glory:

One of the fascinations of Lima and Peru in general, is the concentration of ancient history in this area of South America. The origins of Lima pre-date the Spanish foundation of the city by several millennia, and the city is rediscovering its native roots. Its museums are full of the artistic treasures of magnificent pre-Columbian civilizations that flourished throughout the coastal deserts of Peru.

Lima was transformed in the 20th century because of the massive immigration particularly from the high Andes. As a result of this, it has adopted a new diverse and multicultural identity in permanent evolution.

In addition to the economic prosperity that Peru’s capital has enjoyed at the beginning of the 21^st century, these factors all combine to make it a very exciting time to visit Lima. The city is a gastronomic hotspot and has been flouted as having one of the most innovative culinary scenes in the world; it is on the wave of a boom in contemporary art in Latin American cities; and it has a vibrant and indomitable character with all manner of exciting secrets, treasures and delights that await around every corner.

At Aracari we can put together all sorts of experiences for you in this fantastic city, such as a culinary lesson with a top chef, a private tour of art galleries with an expert curator, a walking tour of shops and ateliers … or even a tour of all of the best bars! Contact us to find out about the full repetoire of tours in Lima, you wont want to leave!

The Question:

Which world-renowned rally races its way into Peru for the first time today?

The Answer:

Having already sped through Argentina and Chile, the Dakar rally today enters the third and final country on the route; Peru.

Day 11 of the 2012 edition sees drivers negotiate their way from Arica on the Peru-Chile border through the sparse and dramatic landscapes of Peru’s southern Andes, all the way to the city of Arequipa.

Following this, on the final three days, competitors will speed through the sand dunes of Peru’s southern desert, past Nazca and Ica, before finally arriving in the capital city of Lima.

Route of the Dakar 2012 edition

Beginning in 1978, The Dakar was originally a race from Paris, France, to Dakar in Senegal, though it had to be relocated after the 2008 edition was cancelled because of political instability and security problems. This is the fourth year that the rally has been held in South America, and the event is set to stay here indefinitely.

The rally, a test of endurance that is considered to be perhaps the world’s most authentic motorsports event, entails drivers of four different types of off-road vehicle – namely cars, truck, motorcycles, and quad bikes – negotiate  their way through rough and extreme terrain, making South America an excellent venue.

Above: Racers on Day 10 of the 2012 Dakar

Having only passed through Argentina and Chile over the last 3 years, this is the first year that the event will travel to Peru. The competition kicked off in Buenos Aires on the 1st of January and lasts for a total of 14 days, covering a staggering total of 5,281 miles, with competitors arriving in Lima on the 15^th of January for the winning ceremony.

You can follow the final days of action on the official Dakar website.

The Question:

Which important Spanish festivity on the 6^th of January is also widely celebrated in the Andes?

The Answer:

Closely related to Christmas, the popular Spanish festivity “Dia de los Reyes magos” on the 6^th of January is also widely celebrated in towns across the Andes.

The celebration corresponds with the visit of the three wise men, or the three kings, to the birthplace of Jesus. In Spain many families celebrate by giving gifts, much as the wise men did to the baby Jesus.

As with many celebrations in the Andes, the celebration of “Dia de los Reyes magos” incorporates both native and colonial traditions alike.

In pre-Columbian times, January was a very important month; being the height of the rainy season it brought water vital for growing crops, and joyous festivities marked the occasion. These celebrations subsequently became incorporated with the celebration of  “Dia de los Reyes magos” that was introduced by the Spanish when they arrived in Peru; apart from anything else, there was the resemblence of giving gifts, much as the the rains gave the gift of nourishment and sustainance.

One of the biggest celebrations of the day is in the town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Known as the Bajada de Reyes de Ollantaytambo, the occasion is marked with a colourful procession of El Niño Jesús de Marcacocha – the baby jesus from the church of Marcacocha – which is brought from the valley of Patakancha to Ollantaytambo on the day before, the 5^th of January. Locals from communities in the surrounding hills and valleys descend on the town with the effigy of Jesus to take part in the festivities, which begin on the 5^th and last throughout the night.

On the 6^th there is a full day of traditional and folkloric dancing on the streets and the main square of Ollantaytambo, while El Niño Jesús de Marcacocha is paraded around the town and taken to the town church to be blessed. There are all different types of traditional dance, as well as feasting on traditional foods, and locals, tourists and townsfolk alike take part. There is also a special mass held in the church, and in the afternoon there is bull fight beside the ruins of Ollantaytambo.

Photos of “Bajada de los Reyes” festival in Ollantaytambo (Source: Flickr)

Featuring a wide range of high-quality handmade goods, such as ceramics, textiles and jewellery, Casa Allpa merges traditional handicraft techniques with sophisticated and innovative contemporary design. Natural materials are used in the wares, with baby Alpaca featuring prominently in the garments for sale.

Although Casa Allpa have been export wholesalers to top department stores in Europe and North America for 25 years, this store in Barranco marks the first outlet for their products in Peru. The store opened on December 1st and has been very popular with local Barranquinos shopping over the Christmas period.

The company works directly with artisans from across the country, generating new jobs and ensuring that artists recieve a fair wage for the work; the shop is also a part of the World Fair Trade Organisation.

You can find out more on the Casa Allpa Facebook page, or visit the store on Jr. Centenario 195, Barranco. It is a part of a recently developed complex in Barranco featuring a range of shops, restaurants and cafes.

The Question:

How did the Incas celebrate New Year?

The Answer:

Despite the distinct lack of fireworks, staying up til 12 Oclock and renditions of Auld Lang Syne, the Inca celebration of the new year – over the winter equinox in June – was a very important event in their calendar.

Not least of all, the equinox marked the return of the sun from its farthest position from the earth and the beginning of longer days.

Observing the Sun

Huge importance was placed on the movement of the sun in Inca times, and it was the most significant god in the pantheon of Andean religion. The Incas and cultures before them tracked the movement of the sun using sophisticated measuring devices in the form of stone pillars. They placed pillars in exactly the position where the sun rose and set on the shortest days of the year – from the 21^st to the 24^th of June.

Marking the winter equinox, the colourful spectacle “Inti Raymi” in the city of Cusco, or “festival of the sun”, is thought to have been one of the most important rituals in the Inca Empire, with celebrations lasting for as much as nine days.

The ceremony was doused in rituals, which are believed to have entailed the Inca drinking Chicha de Jora – a type of drink derived from maize –  to honour the sun. Ceremonies were held in the main plaza of Cusco, where pilgrims from across the empire would assemble. There was also much merriments in the form of feasting, drinking and dancing.

Despite clandestine ceremonies taking place during the Spanish conquest, Inti Raymi was completely prohibited by Viceroy Francisco de Toledo in 1572 as a pagan ceremony opposed to Catholicism.

Nevertheless, since the 1940’s, a theatrical representation has taken place at the temple-fortress of Sacsayhuaman above the city of Cusco on the 24th of June, attracting many locals and tourists alike.

As for Inca prophecies about 2012 … well, this author does not care to speculate. All the best for a happy and prosperous New Year!!

In line with our commitment to supporting communities in Peru, we are sponsoring a football (soccer) team from the community of Huayllabamba in the Cusco region.

Libio – the chef for our adventure, trekking and camping trips – hails from the community, along with some of our trekking porters, and so we decided to provide some snazzy new football strips for their local team.

Let’s hope the new look sends them to the top of the league!

By Simon & Carlos

The Question:

Which contemporary artist’s studio in Lima works only with recyclable materials?

The answer:

Taller Huaringa, the studio of Lima artist Maricruz Arribas, uses only recyclable materials to create a fantastic array of artwork.

When we visited today, Carlos and I were given a privileged peak at the studio, which has opened its doors for two days this week in the run up to Christmas.

Beginning as a hobby, Maricruz has developed her passion for recycling unused objects into a profession, dedicating her work to breathing new life into disposed of and forgotten materials. She takes what could be considered by many to be “mundane” and “boring” objects  and transforms them, turning them into excting and vibrant works of contemporary art.

“The materials come from all over,” Maricruz told us “mostly from old houses that are about to be demolished … every time I enter such a house, firstly I cry,” she explained to us. “Then I go about frantically trying to salvage anything that can be used in my artwork.”

“Often when I pick up a disused item I have no idea what I will do with it. Then, when I take it back to the studio, ideas begin to formulate …”

The very name Huaringa is derived from a place in northern Peru, near to Maricruz’s home town of Piura, where witches are purported to have gathered.  “I chose this name because witches transform things, much as I do with my own work.”

On our tour of the studio, Maricruz showed us an array of artwork, ranging from sculptures crafted from old furniture, teddy bears made from burlap sacks, to flowers and ornaments made from twisted glass bottles. The works have gone on exhibition in Peru’s top galleries and have featured in international contemporary art exhibitions also.

Maricruz currently features in a collective exhibition at the Lima Museum of Contemporary Art in Barranco. You can view the full catalog on the fantastic Taller Huaringa website (in Spanish).

We are currently exploring the possibility of our guests interested in Peruvian contemporary art visiting her studio … watch this space!

The Question

Which UK- and Peru-registered charity has a café on the main plaza of Ollantaytambo?

The Answer

UK and Peru registered NGO Living Heart is associated with Heart’s Café on the main square of Ollantaytambo, a small town in the Sacred Valley.

The NGO works with five highland communities in the Sacred Valley, offering a wide variety of vital support. The founder of the NGO is Sonia Newhouse, an English woman in her early 80s, who has dedicated the last decade of her life to helping local communities.

Amongst other support, Living Heart provides shelter to abused women, abandoned children and elderly; they provide educational supplies and learning materials to children; they organise volunteer art teachers and theatre classes for children; they provide nutritional diets to younger children and abandoned elderly people; they offer family planning advice and contraception; and they work with small scale water purification and elimination of risk from water borne parasites.

Although Living Heart does not disclose which communities they work with in order that they can remain protected and undisturbed by outside visitors, travellers can visit Heart’s Café to learn all about the projects and find out how to donate.

There are many ways of helping out. Here are a few:

• To provide one child with 2 hot meals daily costs Living Heart $106, or £66 per school year. Multiply that by 370 children and the nutrition project needs almost $40,000 a year to keep supporting these malnourished children.
• There are over 200 malnourished children waiting for help. As always funds are limited it is useful to know that the cost per head of breakfast, lunch and distribution is around 30 cents USD per child per day. The project is currently feeding 405 children.
• Warm clothing for the babies, children and elderly of the communities. These parcels may be left at Hearts Cafe.
• Paracetamol and Cough mixture, as Living Heart now has ‘boticas’ in the schools which the Director is trained to administer by one of the project’s nurses.
• Books in Spanish for the 8 to 14 year olds. A4 sized notebooks with squares. Thick wax crayons, rubbers, coloured paper to ‘cut out’, paste, cellotape.

Meals at the café are not gourmet, rather they constitute great quality comfort food. All of the food is very delicious and made from good quality ingredients, some of which grown in the cafe’s own vegetable garden. There are a whole array of interesting options, some of which are not always available in Peru.

All of the staff in the café are people who previously suffered from domestic abuse, and who are now offered work and shelter by the NGO. All of the profits go towards the projects that the NGO is involved with.

As well as highly encouraging travellers to stop by the cafe, it is possible for our guests to arrange a visit with Sonia Newhouse to discuss the work of Living Heart in full. Please contact us for more details.

You can visit the project’s websites here: Living Heart and Heart’s Cafe .