Mucha EspaÒola
Hello,
It´s been a week of spanish classes. Hay mucho mejoramiento (we no longer look like deer facing headlights when spoken to). Really, the classes have been quite good. However, one of the professors likes to chat with us more than practice verbs (and in English!).
The family which we have been staying with is very nice. There is an extended family (we think about 8) living in a cluster of rooms with an inner corridor. There is a Swedish girl also staying with us. Mealtimes have exclusively consisted of spanish conversation (almost)which has been the best practice so far. We thought that pisco (hard grape alcohol, the national drink) may be a mealtime accomaniment, but so far no. Only matté de coca (Ollie´s favorite, Carolina likes the cinnamon and clove). However, we have bought a 5 sol ($2) bottle of Peruvian Rosé which we are to try.
What else? We did see the Arequipeñan treasure, Monasteria Santa Catalina, a monestary for nuns which was an amazing little stone city inside of the blockading outer walls. A tour around Arequipa (tres horas, minimum! said our host) was alright, though it is quite dusty and dry and veiwpoints aren´t very attractive.
Otherwise, too much studying for a vacation!
C&O
PS There are many processions, street parties, singing etc... which seem to be continually occurring, but other than the political protests, we have a hard time figuring out what each fuss is all about.
Follow our travels on the web:
http://www.journeyfile.com
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