Peru…The Warmest Place on Earth?
No, we aren’t referring to heat, but rather to the incredible kindness and warmth of the Peruvian people. We’ve said this before, but in the realm of travel in which we work, beautiful properties are a given. What sets any destination apart from the others is one’s experience with the people. Our recent trip to Peru proved an excellent lesson in learning how kind and generous one’s hosts can be. In fact, at every turn we were met with smiling faces and warm embraces. You will love the Peruvian people.
Equally impressive are the art, history, and culture of Peru, evolved over millennia and on full display for the visitor.
For us, it was time to reacquaint ourselves with the leaders in Peruvian hospitality, Belmond. During our time in Peru we visited Belmond’s Miraflores Park (in Lima), Rio Sagrado (in the Sacred Valley), Sanctuary Lodge (at Machu Picchu), and Monasterio (Cusco). Keeping everything in the Belmond family, we hired guides from Journeys in Peru (their local onsite service) and traveled to and from Machu Picchu on PeruRail trains (specifically their Vistadome train to the site and the legendary Hiram Bingham train on our return to Cusco).
Here’s the tale:
Flying from Chicago to Lima via Houston found us arriving around 11:00 pm on a Friday evening. This was an opportunity to evaluate another of our VIP assistance partners…and it was spectacular. After transiting from our arrival gate to the luggage claim area we were met by Ana Maria, who escorted us directly to the VIP lounge. For those checking baggage, your VIP contact in Lima collects your bags, but we opted for carry-on only (we’ll write more about that topic someday). The VIP lounge was beautiful, decorated with modern Peruvian art, and we spent a few minutes relaxing there before Ana Maria took us to the VIP/diplomatic line for processing. A health worker was summoned to check our CDC cards, and we were then immediately walked to the customs/immigration desk where a Peruvian official greeted us and has us on our way within about two minutes.
We were immediately taken to Belmond’s Miraflores Park, which served as our home for the next three nights. Located in one of Lima’s most beautiful areas and across the boulevard from the ocean overlook, Miraflores Park offers a comfortable home away from home, as well as beautiful dining and cocktail venues. We retired to the rooftop bar and restaurant and took in the sights before turning in for the night. Our timing was fortuitous, and the next morning we met with our colleague Mary Anne Donlon and her husband Tom for an early breakfast. Mary Anne and Tom were on a somewhat parallel itinerary, and we loved connecting with them in Lima and once later in our trip. It’s always exciting to spend time abroad with others with whom you are close, even if for a quick meal.
The next day we set off on a tour of Lima with the first of our Journeys in Peru guides, Kika. A cultured and fun-loving woman with an encyclopedic knowledge of Lima, she took us to a number of the city’s most beautiful and historic sites. Lima is situated on the oceanfront, and largely infused with the energy and vibe of a seaside city. Beautiful parks abound. But perhaps the most impressive part of our tour was our visit to the Larco Museum. One’s visit to the Museum is immediately awe-inspiring, as it is the home to what has been described as one of the world’s most beautiful gardens. Flowers abound, and it’s incredibly beautiful.
But, what’s even more impressive is the collection of ancient Incan artifacts. Room after room is filled with perfectly preserved pottery vessels, sculptures, apparel and tapestries. Under Kika’s expert guidance we explored a great deal of the museum, which provided our first glimpse into the incredibly advanced artistry and science of pre-Colombian South America. The Larco is a must-see for every visitor to Peru. Stunning.
Prior to arriving in Lima we had asked for our hosts’ restaurant recommendations. Not an easy task, since Lima is the home to multiple Michelin-Star restaurants and considered one of the world’s top culinary destinations. However, there was no hesitation in the recommendation: Mayta. There’s a small fleet of Mercedes sedans constantly on standby outside the hotel, and we arrived at Mayta not quite knowing whether it was going to be a formal experience. However, far from it, Mayta turned out to be casual, with impeccable service and creative cuisine (and cocktails)…all in a very comfortable setting. And, like everything we encountered in Peru, when the bill came the only surprise was how reasonable it was.
Lima is a city of contrasts. Some of it reflects a hardscrabble way of life experienced by its residents, but the parks and Spanish-influenced architecture are a real marvel. There was a substantial army of public employees constantly cleaning the streets and parks in Miraflores, and we felt comfortable walking the streets on our own the next day, which was a “free” day in which we called all the shots. Shopping, strolling, and finding another fun restaurant on the oceanfront (courtesy of the concierge’s recommendation) were the perfect prelude to the adventures that were about to unfold the next day.
The following morning, Ana Maria was waiting for us as we checked out from Miraflores Park. She took us to our waiting van, whisked us to the airport and escorted us through the check-in process for our flight to Cusco. This level of attention to our comfort, convenience in security is something we’ve only ever experienced in one other setting…on safari in Africa with a partner whom we consider the world’s top safari company. Sometimes just winging it is fun, but it’s also supremely relaxing to know that you’re in the hands attentive experts who know the ropes.
No, we aren’t referring to heat, but rather to the incredible kindness and warmth of the Peruvian people. We’ve said this before, but in the realm of travel in which we work, beautiful properties are a given. What sets any destination apart from the others is one’s experience with the people. Our recent trip to Peru proved an excellent lesson in learning how kind and generous one’s hosts can be. In fact, at every turn we were met with smiling faces and warm embraces. You will love the Peruvian people.
Equally impressive are the art, history, and culture of Peru, evolved over millennia and on full display for the visitor.
For us, it was time to reacquaint ourselves with the leaders in Peruvian hospitality, Belmond. During our time in Peru we visited Belmond’s Miraflores Park (in Lima), Rio Sagrado (in the Sacred Valley), Sanctuary Lodge (at Machu Picchu), and Monasterio (Cusco). Keeping everything in the Belmond family, we hired guides from Journeys in Peru (their local onsite service) and traveled to and from Machu Picchu on PeruRail trains (specifically their Vistadome train to the site and the legendary Hiram Bingham train on our return to Cusco).
Here’s the tale:
Flying from Chicago to Lima via Houston found us arriving around 11:00 pm on a Friday evening. This was an opportunity to evaluate another of our VIP assistance partners…and it was spectacular. After transiting from our arrival gate to the luggage claim area we were met by Ana Maria, who escorted us directly to the VIP lounge. For those checking baggage, your VIP contact in Lima collects your bags, but we opted for carry-on only (we’ll write more about that topic someday). The VIP lounge was beautiful, decorated with modern Peruvian art, and we spent a few minutes relaxing there before Ana Maria took us to the VIP/diplomatic line for processing. A health worker was summoned to check our CDC cards, and we were then immediately walked to the customs/immigration desk where a Peruvian official greeted us and has us on our way within about two minutes.
We were immediately taken to Belmond’s Miraflores Park, which served as our home for the next three nights. Located in one of Lima’s most beautiful areas and across the boulevard from the ocean overlook, Miraflores Park offers a comfortable home away from home, as well as beautiful dining and cocktail venues. We retired to the rooftop bar and restaurant and took in the sights before turning in for the night. Our timing was fortuitous, and the next morning we met with our colleague Mary Anne Donlon and her husband Tom for an early breakfast. Mary Anne and Tom were on a somewhat parallel itinerary, and we loved connecting with them in Lima and once later in our trip. It’s always exciting to spend time abroad with others with whom you are close, even if for a quick meal.
The next day we set off on a tour of Lima with the first of our Journeys in Peru guides, Kika. A cultured and fun-loving woman with an encyclopedic knowledge of Lima, she took us to a number of the city’s most beautiful and historic sites. Lima is situated on the oceanfront, and largely infused with the energy and vibe of a seaside city. Beautiful parks abound. But perhaps the most impressive part of our tour was our visit to the Larco Museum. One’s visit to the Museum is immediately awe-inspiring, as it is the home to what has been described as one of the world’s most beautiful gardens. Flowers abound, and it’s incredibly beautiful.
But, what’s even more impressive is the collection of ancient Incan artifacts. Room after room is filled with perfectly preserved pottery vessels, sculptures, apparel and tapestries. Under Kika’s expert guidance we explored a great deal of the museum, which provided our first glimpse into the incredibly advanced artistry and science of pre-Colombian South America. The Larco is a must-see for every visitor to Peru. Stunning.
Prior to arriving in Lima we had asked for our hosts’ restaurant recommendations. Not an easy task, since Lima is the home to multiple Michelin-Star restaurants and considered one of the world’s top culinary destinations. However, there was no hesitation in the recommendation: Mayta. There’s a small fleet of Mercedes sedans constantly on standby outside the hotel, and we arrived at Mayta not quite knowing whether it was going to be a formal experience. However, far from it, Mayta turned out to be casual, with impeccable service and creative cuisine (and cocktails)…all in a very comfortable setting. And, like everything we encountered in Peru, when the bill came the only surprise was how reasonable it was.
Lima is a city of contrasts. Some of it reflects a hardscrabble way of life experienced by its residents, but the parks and Spanish-influenced architecture are a real marvel. There was a substantial army of public employees constantly cleaning the streets and parks in Miraflores, and we felt comfortable walking the streets on our own the next day, which was a “free” day in which we called all the shots. Shopping, strolling, and finding another fun restaurant on the oceanfront (courtesy of the concierge’s recommendation) were the perfect prelude to the adventures that were about to unfold the next day.
The following morning, Ana Maria was waiting for us as we checked out from Miraflores Park. She took us to our waiting van, whisked us to the airport and escorted us through the check-in process for our flight to Cusco. This level of attention to our comfort, convenience in security is something we’ve only ever experienced in one other setting…on safari in Africa with a partner whom we consider the world’s top safari company. Sometimes just winging it is fun, but it’s also supremely relaxing to know that you’re in the hands attentive experts who know the ropes.
The 90-minute flight to Cusco takes you over stunning Andean vistas, and when you land in Cusco you may be a bit short of breath since you’re at over 11,000 feet in elevation. This is where we met our second Journeys in Peru angel, Nancy (Nancy is, by the way her real name…though of Incan and Spanish descent, her mom was inspired by the name of a Hollywood star she saw in a subtitled American movie). Again, it was a wholly comfortable arrival experience. Nancy took us immediately to our car, where our driver, Felipe, helped us load our luggage and drove us roughly two hours to Peru’s famous Sacred Valley. Inhabited for millennia by the Incas and their predecessors, it’s clear to see why those ancient Peruvians revered the beauty of this valley and the majesty of its mountains. Along the way we stopped to walk the streets of some of the local villages, visited a textile center where we saw some incredible artistry in hand-produced tapestries, and spent some quality time with alpacas and llamas.
Arriving at Belmond’s Rio Sagrado, a couple of hours from Cusco, is an exercise in sensory overload. The small town is, truthfully, not all that different than the other agricultural villages in the Sacred Valley, but the moment you enter Rio Sagrado the sights and sounds that greet you are overwhelmingly beautiful. Set on the edge of the Urubamba River, the sound of rushing water is a relaxing natural sonata that provides a backdrop to your time there. The grounds are beautiful, with baby llamas grazing peacefully on the lawn, and the accommodations themselves are…well…you’ll just have to look at the photos. We were assigned a beautiful villa and, after settling in, made our way to the restaurant. Heeding Nancy’s advice, we enjoyed a light dinner and a cocktail, then fighting the shortage of oxygen (still at over 8,000 feet), we made our way back to our villa, where the staff had started a roaring fire. A bit of champagne, a wee bit of chocolate, and we called it a night.
The next day, after breakfast, Nancy and Felipe were waiting for us. We spent a full day touring the Sacred Valley, with a breathtaking (in more ways than one) visit to a llama farm, a local market town, and, finally, to the Nilda Callañaupa Workshop. We spent quite a bit of time with Nilda, who has devoted her life to preserving ancient handicrafts. The weavings she features are those of local artisans who engage in every step of the creative process, from harvesting the wool to dyeing, spinning, an weaving incredible tapestries. Nilda’s efforts have been featured in National Geographic magazine; she is a true cultural treasure who has single-handedly preserved some of Peru’s most important artistic traditions.
Throughout all of these experiences, Nancy’s tremendous command of Peru’s history and its ancient cultures greatly enhanced our understanding of the art, science and architecture that we were experiencing. It added a layer to our experience that one simply cannot get from a guide book.
Arriving at Belmond’s Rio Sagrado, a couple of hours from Cusco, is an exercise in sensory overload. The small town is, truthfully, not all that different than the other agricultural villages in the Sacred Valley, but the moment you enter Rio Sagrado the sights and sounds that greet you are overwhelmingly beautiful. Set on the edge of the Urubamba River, the sound of rushing water is a relaxing natural sonata that provides a backdrop to your time there. The grounds are beautiful, with baby llamas grazing peacefully on the lawn, and the accommodations themselves are…well…you’ll just have to look at the photos. We were assigned a beautiful villa and, after settling in, made our way to the restaurant. Heeding Nancy’s advice, we enjoyed a light dinner and a cocktail, then fighting the shortage of oxygen (still at over 8,000 feet), we made our way back to our villa, where the staff had started a roaring fire. A bit of champagne, a wee bit of chocolate, and we called it a night.
The next day, after breakfast, Nancy and Felipe were waiting for us. We spent a full day touring the Sacred Valley, with a breathtaking (in more ways than one) visit to a llama farm, a local market town, and, finally, to the Nilda Callañaupa Workshop. We spent quite a bit of time with Nilda, who has devoted her life to preserving ancient handicrafts. The weavings she features are those of local artisans who engage in every step of the creative process, from harvesting the wool to dyeing, spinning, an weaving incredible tapestries. Nilda’s efforts have been featured in National Geographic magazine; she is a true cultural treasure who has single-handedly preserved some of Peru’s most important artistic traditions.
Throughout all of these experiences, Nancy’s tremendous command of Peru’s history and its ancient cultures greatly enhanced our understanding of the art, science and architecture that we were experiencing. It added a layer to our experience that one simply cannot get from a guide book.
We were looking forward with great anticipation to our visit to Machu Picchu, one of the great wonders of the Ancient World. That morning Nancy took us to explore Ollantaytambo, an impressive Incan fortress in the Sacred Valley, followed by a superb picnic with Nancy and Felipe. Then, on to catch our train to Machu Picchu. Our excitement built at we boarded the Vistadome train en route to this amazing place, and as we got closer the wide open expanses of Sacred Valley gave way to impossibly steep mountains, and a rain forest environment, seeing a variety of orchids along the way. We were even treated to a native song commemorating our 45th anniversary! All was going well…until…Nancy approached us quietly and told us in a hushed tone that our hopes of an overnight visit at Sanctuary Lodge had been dashed!
Listening to Nancy in near disbelief, she told us that a protest had been planned for the next day, with the likelihood that the sole train line would be blocked for a couple of days.
A little stunned, Nancy assured us that Belmond, Journeys in Peru and the staff of the Hiram Bingham had us covered.
***
Interrupting for a commercial announcement*…In the past we’ve encountered situations in which clients have experienced unpredictable events—illness, family crises, and, in one case, a home that had burned to the ground—and that is when true professionalism shines through. Though the impending train cancellations were hardly catastrophic, it meant that a number of things had to happen: We would go immediately to the Citadel after a brief stop at Sanctuary Lodge, we would be given an astounding tour Nancy that extended one hour past the site’s closing time (including a touching Incan blessing), we would be shuttled back to the fully booked Hiram Bingham train, and upon arrival back in Cuzco, we would be escorted to one of Monasterio’s top accommodations, the Bishop’s Suite.
Lemons to lemonade. Multiple “impossible” changes, all accomplished seamlessly. All because we were in the hands of top professionals, and traveling with…Our. Amazing. Nancy.
***
But, let us return to the experience at Machu Picchu. Though we had less time there than we had originally planned, there are few things in life that compare to the moment you step out of the forested path and see the ancient city before you. It’s an astounding tribute to the genius of the Incans. And, thankfully, it’s incredibly preserved. Until you visit—and you must visit—it’s not apparent how improbable this was…sited in the midst of unimaginably steep mountains in a rain forest, the ancient Incans managed to move and hew massive boulders to create a wondrous place. Then, having disappeared centuries ago, nature took over the Incans’ treasured city and concealed Machu Picchu until its existence was revealed to Hiram Bingham in the early 20th century. It’s impressive in every way, and if you don’t tear up a bit with emotion when you first see it…. Well, you’ll tear up.
After our expansive tour of Machu Picchu, Nancy accompanied us to the train station. The Hiram Bingham was “sold out,” but calls had been made. A conversation with a harried clerk had us all nervously checking our watches, but we boarded the Hiram Bingham with minutes to spare. It’s a beautiful train, furnished in a livery reminiscent of Belmond’s other great trains such as the Venice-Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) and the legendary Royal Scotsman.
The unhurried trip back to Cusco began with Champagne and cocktails, after which we were summoned to the bar car (“Pisco sour, please.”). It started off sedately. Then the musical duo struck up a song. And another song. And soon the Latin American zest for life was turned to 110%, with the crowd singing familiar (to them) Latin songs, and dancing with astounding energy. Again, we were toasted for 45 years of marriage and shouts of “Don’t go!” filled the car as we made our way back to our table for a gourmet multi-course meal.
Really, it was an emotional roller coaster—in a matter of just a few hours, we went from the deflating news of the likely railroad closure and an abbreviated visit to Machu Picchu, to a fantastic voyage aboard one of the world’s great trains, surrounded by a celebratory crowd reveling in one of those magical experiences that only happens when the stars align.
Listening to Nancy in near disbelief, she told us that a protest had been planned for the next day, with the likelihood that the sole train line would be blocked for a couple of days.
A little stunned, Nancy assured us that Belmond, Journeys in Peru and the staff of the Hiram Bingham had us covered.
***
Interrupting for a commercial announcement*…In the past we’ve encountered situations in which clients have experienced unpredictable events—illness, family crises, and, in one case, a home that had burned to the ground—and that is when true professionalism shines through. Though the impending train cancellations were hardly catastrophic, it meant that a number of things had to happen: We would go immediately to the Citadel after a brief stop at Sanctuary Lodge, we would be given an astounding tour Nancy that extended one hour past the site’s closing time (including a touching Incan blessing), we would be shuttled back to the fully booked Hiram Bingham train, and upon arrival back in Cuzco, we would be escorted to one of Monasterio’s top accommodations, the Bishop’s Suite.
Lemons to lemonade. Multiple “impossible” changes, all accomplished seamlessly. All because we were in the hands of top professionals, and traveling with…Our. Amazing. Nancy.
***
But, let us return to the experience at Machu Picchu. Though we had less time there than we had originally planned, there are few things in life that compare to the moment you step out of the forested path and see the ancient city before you. It’s an astounding tribute to the genius of the Incans. And, thankfully, it’s incredibly preserved. Until you visit—and you must visit—it’s not apparent how improbable this was…sited in the midst of unimaginably steep mountains in a rain forest, the ancient Incans managed to move and hew massive boulders to create a wondrous place. Then, having disappeared centuries ago, nature took over the Incans’ treasured city and concealed Machu Picchu until its existence was revealed to Hiram Bingham in the early 20th century. It’s impressive in every way, and if you don’t tear up a bit with emotion when you first see it…. Well, you’ll tear up.
After our expansive tour of Machu Picchu, Nancy accompanied us to the train station. The Hiram Bingham was “sold out,” but calls had been made. A conversation with a harried clerk had us all nervously checking our watches, but we boarded the Hiram Bingham with minutes to spare. It’s a beautiful train, furnished in a livery reminiscent of Belmond’s other great trains such as the Venice-Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) and the legendary Royal Scotsman.
The unhurried trip back to Cusco began with Champagne and cocktails, after which we were summoned to the bar car (“Pisco sour, please.”). It started off sedately. Then the musical duo struck up a song. And another song. And soon the Latin American zest for life was turned to 110%, with the crowd singing familiar (to them) Latin songs, and dancing with astounding energy. Again, we were toasted for 45 years of marriage and shouts of “Don’t go!” filled the car as we made our way back to our table for a gourmet multi-course meal.
Really, it was an emotional roller coaster—in a matter of just a few hours, we went from the deflating news of the likely railroad closure and an abbreviated visit to Machu Picchu, to a fantastic voyage aboard one of the world’s great trains, surrounded by a celebratory crowd reveling in one of those magical experiences that only happens when the stars align.
Pulling into the station at Cusco we were met by our driver who was to us to Belmond’s beautiful Monasterio Hotel. Once again, the hotel was “sold out,” but calls had been made. As we alluded to earlier, they not only took care of us, they took care of us in a big way, escorting us to the beautiful Bishop’s Suite. One enters the suite through a massive ancient door, and inside finds exquisite murals still on the walls. Of course, in the Belmond style, the suite was beautifully furnished and supremely comfortable.
Everything about Monasterio was fantastic. The serene inner courtyard is open for meals and coffee or cocktails. On our second night there we dined in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, enjoying a performance by members of the Cusco Opera. With an additional day in Cusco we did a great deal of touring…one full day with Nancy and our driver, Felipe, and the rest on our own. Despite the warnings that the city has its share of pickpockets, we felt entirely safe and comfortable when we were on our own. One is frequently approached by people selling inexpensive souvenirs, but the impossibly friendly and courteous Peruvian demeanor means that a polite “No, gracias” is met with a smile and a willingness to let you pass.
Cusco fully displays the clash of cultures that occurred centuries ago when the Catholic Spanish encountered Incan tradition and religion. European architecture is often found overlaid on Incan structures, and even the religious symbols found in its churches and cathedrals reflect an effort to incorporate Incan and Christian symbology, all in an effort to effect conversion. While this was a violent time in Peruvian history, today one finds that the people embrace their fascinating past, which has led to a vibrant culture that honors both traditions.
On the outskirts of the City we visited the huge Incan fortress known as Sacsayhuaman and other Incan edifices. The precise uses and symbolism found in these sites is sometimes elusive since the Incans lacked a written language, but there are times when the sites reveal ancient Incan traditions, including that of human sacrifice.
After three nights at Monasterio, it was time for our return home. Our flight back to the States departed a bit after midnight, so we had arranged for a dayroom at an airport hotel that was mere steps from the terminal. Basic accommodations, but incredibly convenient. We had a good meal there before our Journeys in Peru escort arrived to take us back to the same VIP/Diplomatic lounge we had visited upon our arrival. Having checked in, it was a comfortable way to pass the final two hours prior to our departure. The trip home was, blessedly, uneventful.
This has been one of our longer posts, but even so it captures only a fleeting glimpse of this voyage of discovery. The beauty and history of Peru is undeniable, and our short visit provided a meaningful voyage into the country’s remarkable history and culture, as well as a reminder of why Peru is perennially favored by those who value the kindness and authenticity of its people.
On a professional level, we used this trip to evaluate our Belmond partners. The properties at which we stayed were beautiful and, in the Belmond tradition, each reflected a unique identity and sense of place. Service was uniformly outstanding. Food and beverages top notch.
What really stands out, however, is the fact that we had—without exception—overwhelmingly positive dealings with our Belmond counterparts. From the flawless assistance with our initial planning through to the unflappable display of adaptability in the face of the unexpected by our guide Nancy, we experienced graciousness, attention to detail, and assertive confidence to professionally handle every situation. In our debriefing with Max Snytin, our principal point of contact at Belmond, we told him that we’ve seldom experienced this level of confidence in our hosts.
Extraordinary Peru. Extraordinary Belmond. We’re proud to be their partners in providing memorable travel experiences to our clients. We urge you to put Peru on your “Must Visit” list.
Travel Beyond….
Everything about Monasterio was fantastic. The serene inner courtyard is open for meals and coffee or cocktails. On our second night there we dined in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, enjoying a performance by members of the Cusco Opera. With an additional day in Cusco we did a great deal of touring…one full day with Nancy and our driver, Felipe, and the rest on our own. Despite the warnings that the city has its share of pickpockets, we felt entirely safe and comfortable when we were on our own. One is frequently approached by people selling inexpensive souvenirs, but the impossibly friendly and courteous Peruvian demeanor means that a polite “No, gracias” is met with a smile and a willingness to let you pass.
Cusco fully displays the clash of cultures that occurred centuries ago when the Catholic Spanish encountered Incan tradition and religion. European architecture is often found overlaid on Incan structures, and even the religious symbols found in its churches and cathedrals reflect an effort to incorporate Incan and Christian symbology, all in an effort to effect conversion. While this was a violent time in Peruvian history, today one finds that the people embrace their fascinating past, which has led to a vibrant culture that honors both traditions.
On the outskirts of the City we visited the huge Incan fortress known as Sacsayhuaman and other Incan edifices. The precise uses and symbolism found in these sites is sometimes elusive since the Incans lacked a written language, but there are times when the sites reveal ancient Incan traditions, including that of human sacrifice.
After three nights at Monasterio, it was time for our return home. Our flight back to the States departed a bit after midnight, so we had arranged for a dayroom at an airport hotel that was mere steps from the terminal. Basic accommodations, but incredibly convenient. We had a good meal there before our Journeys in Peru escort arrived to take us back to the same VIP/Diplomatic lounge we had visited upon our arrival. Having checked in, it was a comfortable way to pass the final two hours prior to our departure. The trip home was, blessedly, uneventful.
This has been one of our longer posts, but even so it captures only a fleeting glimpse of this voyage of discovery. The beauty and history of Peru is undeniable, and our short visit provided a meaningful voyage into the country’s remarkable history and culture, as well as a reminder of why Peru is perennially favored by those who value the kindness and authenticity of its people.
On a professional level, we used this trip to evaluate our Belmond partners. The properties at which we stayed were beautiful and, in the Belmond tradition, each reflected a unique identity and sense of place. Service was uniformly outstanding. Food and beverages top notch.
What really stands out, however, is the fact that we had—without exception—overwhelmingly positive dealings with our Belmond counterparts. From the flawless assistance with our initial planning through to the unflappable display of adaptability in the face of the unexpected by our guide Nancy, we experienced graciousness, attention to detail, and assertive confidence to professionally handle every situation. In our debriefing with Max Snytin, our principal point of contact at Belmond, we told him that we’ve seldom experienced this level of confidence in our hosts.
Extraordinary Peru. Extraordinary Belmond. We’re proud to be their partners in providing memorable travel experiences to our clients. We urge you to put Peru on your “Must Visit” list.
Travel Beyond….