HOW TO: TRAVEL WITH THE LOCALS

Living here in Peru has given my husband and I a unique opportunity to meet local people in rural communities and build relationships with them. Our international internship here in Cusco is working with a humanitarian organization to film and document all projects currently under way in this part of the world. Fortunately for us, there is a huge project called RURAL TOURISM going on right now where instead of staying in hotels or hostels, you stay in the very homes of local Peruvian families in isolated rural villages. This experience gives you first-hand cultural encounters, teaching you more about both the people with whom you live and the culture in which you are immersed.  It is a unique opportunity to take the path less trodden - which is far more rewarding than any other form of travel.

Gregorio was our host - and he and his wife took awesome care of us. They always made sure to fill us up on hot fresh from the branch herbal tea, because temperatures at that elevation up in the mountains drop well below freezing and there is no heating whatsoever. We stayed in the adobe mud homes they built with their own two hands, sleeping under about 17 heavy blankets and fully clothed in ponchos and layers to stay warm. The life many people live throughout the world is vastly different from my own - and rural tourism serves as a wonderful reminder of my many blessings and also of the many opportunities we have in life to reach outside ourselves and serve/help others.

For those of you looking for an insider experience when visiting or traveling to other countries, rural tourism is the way to go. All meals are handmade and provided, along with housing and unique experiences like learning how to weave with handmade wool on a countryside hill overlooking terraces and valleys that make your jaw drop. It really is an experience I will never forget, and if you have it - take it. Visit Amaru, Peru and meet the wonderful people I've been blessed to meet. You will love every moment and cherish the people far more than if you stayed in a hostel or hotel. It makes all the difference to get to know the people on a personal level and stay in their homes. Peru is a special place with special people - I hope you look for opportunities to experience the same! Visit AscendAlliance.org to learn more, and talk to me if you REALLY want to make this dream a reality. Ciaociao!