Footprints in Peru

About three years ago the fam bam and I left the homestead and traveled to another continent. South America, Peru to be exact. My husbands family is from Lima. So for the first time in our 20 plus years of marriage we gathered up the babies and went on a family trip to visit his motherland.

Of course, I took my camera. Much to my husband's dismay. I traveled with my Nikon D810 baby and two lenses. I probably shot about 3000 images from the entire trip. It has taken me some time to finally cull my images and decide if I wanted anyone else to ever see them. Yes, I'm a little indecisive when it comes to displaying personal images. Lately, I've been giving myself a little more "yes" factor. I read #ShondaRhimes, "Year of Yes" book a couple of years ago and I really haven't been the same.

I usually say no, before I say yes to most everything. (Introvert) I have been really trying to get out my own way with that BS. Life is short. I need to live a little more outside of my comfort zone. I have discovered since I have been a little more open, a few more exciting opportunities seem to be flowing my way. I'll probably blog about this at some point.

Anywho, back to Peru. Yes, these are my vacation shots. I did take tons of family photos, however, for this post I wanted to focus on my personal view as we moved through Lima's city streets and visited popular tourist spots. We embarked on our journey immediately after celebrating Christmas and stayed a few days past the New Year. That time of year is considered the beginning of Peru's summer so it is quite warm and humid. Since my husband's family is from Peru we had the opportunity to see more of everyday life in the city and countrysides. Visually, it was great for me!

One of the things that really caught my eye were the colors all around us. The marketplaces, the museums, and typical street scenes were bursting with beautiful bright colors.

There are about 32 million people living in Peru. The population is a mix of Amerindians, Europeans, Africans, and Asians. Spanish is the primary language, however, many Peruvians speak Quechua or other native languages. Peru's art, cuisine, literature, and music have become very diverse as a result of the integration and influence of the various cultural traditions.

Fresh fruit, candy. and other popular snacks can be found almost everywhere and on little street carts.

The city architecture is a mix of native american, Inca and spanish influences.

A doorway at the National Afro-Peruvian Museum

Stairwell at the National Afro-Peruvian Museum

Let's see some "castes" that developed in the country. It should be noted that according to the logic of the time the lighter the skin the more intelligent and civilized the person would be considered.

We had an opportunity to visit the National Afro-Peruvian Museum during our visit. The discussion of slavery and the African diaspora can often be a difficult subject to address, especially when you are on vacation. My in-laws were incredibly thoughtful in seeking it out for the family. It was an advantageous opportunity to learn a little more about Afro-Peruvian history and the impact of the slave trade.

This was one of the artifacts from that era on display at the museum. The tour guide explained that this was one of stocks used as a form of punishment and torture.

An agricultural terrace above the town of Pisac. An ancient Inca ruin.

Peruvian Graffitti outside the walls of the Army Museum Fortaleza del Real Felipe. (click photo to visit website)

Lima police officer, Torres, standing guard outside the Presidential Palace in Lima

Machu Picchu

My favorite little tourists.

Lastly, Peru has so much to see and do. If you love nature and hiking this would be a perfect place to do it. If you are a foodie like me you will love the cuisine. If you want to see a lot of ancient ruins, then Peru has got your fix. Some day I hope to return and have the opportunity to visit other regions to see different ruins and perhaps immerse myself into the food and the culture once again.

~Melody

The National Afro-Peruvian Museum does not seem to have a website however they do have a Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Museo-Nacional-Afroperuano-134225336662911/ if you are interested in visiting or finding out more about the museum.

If you like this post and would like to be kept in the loop on future post, please subscribe.

#personal #storytelling #photography #Peru #culture #travel #tourist #blackgirlbehindthelens #photojournalism #whatisee #colors #outdoors #leavingfootprints #museums #afroperuvian #wanderlust