Description

Where to stay:

Like any big city, it's diverse. There are good parts and there are bad parts. As a tourist, you probably should avoid the bad parts. Don't stay near the airport, unless it's at the Wyndham (or another familiar place). I made the mistake of booking a cottage hotel close to the airport the first time I came here. While the hotel itself was nice, the neighborhood was a different story. I was advised not to go outside with my camera if I wanted to keep it.

So, make sure to stay in a decent part of town. I was told you can't go wrong with Miraflores or San Ysidro, and I found Barranco to be very welcoming as well. In both places, you can walk the streets with or without your camera, and there are lots of great cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Your lodging options are practically unlimited in these places. On the high end, there are a lot of hotels that you, no doubt, know and love. The Marriott in Miraflores overlooks the ocean and has a great restaurant and bar. On the lower end, there are plenty of airbnbs that are comfortable and very reasonably priced.

When to Visit:

I have only been here during their winter (June - August), and I have yet to see the sun. The sky is grey every day; the climate is cold and damp. If you come here during this time, bring warm clothes. I am told that it is hot and sunny starting in December or January. Next time I visit, it'll be then. 

What to Eat:

You can find almost any type of cuisine here. It is my observation that there seems to be an inordinate amount of Italian restaurants, but that's beside the point. The coffee houses are fantastic, as are the seafood joints. I've heard the craft beers rival those of California, and the Chinese restaurants are an interesting fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines. Obviously, you can't go wrong with Peruvian food. Typical dishes include cuy, ceviche, lomo saltado, among others. By the way, for those of you who are particular about what you put into your body, you will be happy to know that Peru is a non-GMO country.

What To Do:

There are the usual tourist attractions - museums, parks, shopping, etc. For the adventurous types, there's surfing and paramotoring on the beach in Miraflores. There are also several near-by attractions (2-4 hours by bus), some of which include Huacachina, a desert surrounded by huge sand dunes where you can sand ski, and Paracas, a marine wildlife refuge where you can see penguins and seals. You can access these places by bus only. But no worries, the buses are first class. There are televisions, WiFi, huge reclining seats, and complimentary snacks. They are an inexpensive option at around $20.00 one way. 

How to Get Around the City:

It's easy. Take a cab or an Uber. You'll find on every street corner and they are very affordable. Buses pass ever few minutes on the main streets; they cost S/ 1 (30 cents). Walking is a great option if you're in a decent part of town. A word to the wise: don't expect the right of way as a pedestrian. You don't have it; look both ways when crossing and do so at your own risk. You can also download an app called Gain and use it to snag a scooter. They're fun. Pay attention to the streets; as many of them are one-way.

Communication:

If you know enough Spanish to order food and ask directions (or even if you don't), you'll be fine. Many people here (especially those in touristic places) speak English and they are usually happy to translate for you.

Photos