May 7th, 2018 - Dante Bruno


After three flights, two five-hour layovers, and zero showering, our group of 20 Horizons students finally made it to Cuzco at around 6am this morning. We piled into vans and departed for our various homestays spread out across the city. Braden and I were welcomed by a warm family and brought up the 5 flights of stairs to our rooms. (Due to the altitude change, this was quite the cardio workout). Like many families in Peru, our host family lives in a building with most of their extended family. Even though the family spoke little English and we spoke little Spanish, they were very patient and helped us navigate the new aspects of our temporary homes. Some notable discoveries were that we must turn the water heater on before showers, there is no heat (just blankets) and toilet paper should NOT be flushed down the toilet.

During breakfast we had the chance to meet three students from a California University who are also staying in the building for their trip. Many of the homestay families Horizons students are staying with were also housing other students from all over the U.S.

After a much-needed nap, we ate a lunch in the restaurant on the bottom floor of our building. This was owned by our homestay family and so, we got to eat fresh local food made by their grandparents. Our meal was a huge feast of potato and root soup, trout, rice, and lentils.  After lunch all the Horizons students met at the ISA office to have our official orientation given by the ISA staff. We learned all about cultural norms in Peru, safety, health, and other Peruvian history. For example, we learned that Peruvians often use endearing nicknames in jest and have a warm and affectionate style of greeting. While some Americans may see their questions as intrusive, most Peruvian mothers have a protective nature so they often take extra care of guests. Also, we learned that Peruvians drink teas for all sorts of benefits. Some help you sleep, calm your stomach, sooth your throat and many other purposes. Something else that was new is that in Peru, the cars have right of way over pedestrians. A good lesson to learn before we started exploring the city.

We all turned in early to get some rest. Most of us are still recovering from our exhausting traveling experience. But after a good night’s rest we will be ready to start exploring the city tomorrow!
All the Horizons Students at the ISA orientation.

Rooftop view from the Braden and Dante's homestay.

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