It’s safe to say that if you’re a resident of Cusco, Peru you’re most likely working in the tourism industry. As the gateway city to Machu Pichu and the many trails that lead there, Cusco is a city who’s future is so dependant on it’s past.

From the time Liz and I arrived at our hotel, situated just a block from the old city’s centre, Plaza de Armes, we were both amazed at the extent to which the Inca, Pre-Inca and Spanish architecture was preserved. With archeological sites and colonial-era churches at every turn Cusco truly offers wonders from a world gone by.

The city lives and dies with the millions of backpackers, soul searchers and everyday vacationers looking to take in majestic views of the Andes and learn about the Incan civilitation. Trips to sites and museums have helped us understand more about this truly facinating culture that strives to balance it’s native and Spanish heritages. Hagglers, knocknoff marketplaces, hundreds of shady travel guides and tourist focused venues like Irish pubs and Aussie cafes are abound though and along with the wet, cool weather make it difficult to appreciate the town as a preserved landmark.

Cusco has offered us everything we desired during our stay. An amazing history lesson, some great local food and the experience of the other great industries here like agriculture, ceramics and woven goods made from alpaca and llamas. The city is alive at night with many great bars, cafes and live music too.

Tomorrow our journey continues to the Sacred Valley before we go on to Machu Pichu via Aguas Caliente where I´ll hopefully have some photos I can post.