Today we had the chance to go to the Temple of the Sun (Inca ruins in Ollantaytambo). We learned about the structures in which they were made and the history of why the temple was built. We walked to the top of the ruins and had a chance to see over the town of Ollantaytambo, which was breath taking. At the bottom of the ruins we ran into a family of alpacas, which were very friendly and willing to take pictures with us. After lunch, we went to go see a local traditional Incan healer, who taught us about the local culture and blessed our journey. After the healer we went to dinner, and had the opportunity to try a local drink that consists of purple corn, cinnamon, sugar, and pineapple; it was really good! It has been very enjoyable to talk to locals and practice our Spanish. They have been very patient and willing to communicate with us. Tomorrow we are headed to our home stays and are totally excited!!! We miss y'all but are having a wonderful time! :)

-Rachel Ryman and Emily Boone

Day 2 in Peru:

After a nice breakfast at our hotel in Lima, we flew to Cusco this morning and met our two World Leadership School Guides, Johan and Lida.  Together, we took a bus through the mountains to Ollantaytambo and checked into our second hotel.  We will be here for two nights, which is good since it is quite nice!  It is amazing to be between mountains that are so tall they pierce the clouds!

This afternoon, Johan and Lida led us through some curricular and bonding exercises, then we all walked to a local restaurant for dinner.

Starting tomorrow, two students per day will be taking charge of our blog posts.

Much love from all of us!

Audry

Enjoy the following Photos:

1:  Packing up and getting ready to leave Lima
2:  A view from our drive to Ollantaytambo
3:  Our new hotel in Ollantaytambo (check out those mountains!)
4:  Sam and Connor sporting their new style
5:  Dinner

Good Morning!  Just a quick note that we arrived safely in Lima last night.  Everyone was tired but in great spirits.  We are staying at a quaint hostel (http://www.hostalelpatio.net/index.html) this morning, and we are leaving for Cusco in a few hours.  The 59 degree, fog shrouded marine layer of coastal Lima is a wonderful change from the South in June.  More to follow!  Paul