An Interview with an Avid Traveler Currently Working in Peru

Travel is slowly reopening in Peru. We are connecting with a few travelers to share their perspectives. This is from Rachel “Ray” White. Follow her on instagram for more @chel_white211 or on tiktok @roundtheworldwithray

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a 30-year-old who spent the last 7 years teaching in America. Last year, I decided that I wanted to experience and see more of the world! I got my certification to teach English abroad and Peru is my first stop!

How did you choose Peru? What attracted you to this country?

I came to Peru in October to get my certification! Initially, I chose Peru simply because of the beauty and the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu. While I was here training, I fell in love with the city of Cusco, the people, the food, and lifestyle! The people are so friendly and the food here feels so much healthier and more natural than food in the States. Everything is made fresh and processed foods are more rare to find! The locals love to get outside and walk or hike, and many times when I meet someone new, they offer to take me hiking! I went back to the US for the holidays and I found myself really missing Cusco so when I was offered a six month teaching position, I jumped at the opportunity!

How has it been during the pandemic? Has it affected your journey?

The pandemic hit Peru hard so I think now they are taking the precautions very seriously. Masks are worn by all in all places and the vaccine is viewed as necessary for them to continue with their way of life - not something to be debated over. Some places in Cusco do require you to show a vaccine card. Overall, I would say my experience has not been negatively affected by the pandemic. I think I actually came at the perfect time because tourism is just starting to pick back up.

Are there any travel tips you can share with us?

If you’re traveling to Peru, I would recommend first checking the Covid requirements. Things are always changing in these Covid times! I also would remind people that Peru is an emerging market. It’s easy to see gorgeous pictures and forget that fact. The truth is, even though no one shows the ugly side, that doesn’t mean it’s not there in every country or city you visit. I had a bit of a culture shock when I first arrived because I was surprised to see the crumbling buildings in some places, the children selling candy on the streets, and the stray dogs everywhere. Hot water isn’t always available, you can’t drink the water so I went through far more plastic bottles than I would’ve liked initially, and in many places the streets and sidewalks are not cleaned. If you’re willing to look at these struggles as what they are and learn from them, Peru is an incredible place and an amazing experience.

Lastly, why would you recommend Peru as a travel destination?

I would recommend visiting Peru because I think this country has something for everyone. You can wander the Inca ruins, explore the old cities or the new ones, visit the mountains or the beaches, and get lost in the desert or the jungle. There’s beauty around every corner and the ancient traditions and beliefs are still alive and prevalent today. Peru is definitely a country and culture worth experiencing.