Last night, I had a plan for my day. It was a plan that involved getting a reasonable amount of sleep and not dying in the day ahead. Unfortunately for me, Jetlag decided my plan was doomed to failure and around 3am, it seemed I was up for good.

Once the sun was up, I decided to do what any not-quite-20-year-old would do when unleashed alone on a strange country.

I went to church. 

A Catholic church, no less. If my mother could see me now...

The basilica de la catedral in the Plaza de Armas is- I think- the largest church in Cusco, and an incredibly historic site. It's also overwhelmingly beautiful on the inside. Never before in my life have I seen so many ornate depictions of religious iconography lining the walls of one place.

Mass was entirely in Spanish, which was to be expected, but as confusing as it was there was a beautiful feel of unity in the air among the congregation.

At one point I was doused with holy water and, you'll be pleased to note, I managed to curb the impulse to scream 'Argh! It burns!' as the water hit me. I know. I'm proud of me too.

Walking out of church, it was immediately apparent that there was some kind of parade going on. (For me? You shouldn't have.) Military dudes, marching bands, confetti, balloons; you name it, it was there.

The best part, though, was when what seemed like all of the children in Cusco marched through the square in an overwhelming display of adorableness.

Heart= well and truly melted.

After this, it was time to meet up with the team I will be working with for the next two weeks, thus officially ending my time as a solo traveller.

The walking tour of Cusco proved to be awessome- sneaky visit to a chocolate museum (I know, right?!) even more so.  

Come 4pm, the massive day, crazy altitude and little sleep I'd had was catching up to me. Boy was I feeling it.

So I was a little less than thrilled when I learned that, come 5pm, we were headed on a nightwalk. Especially since Cusco is like 90% stair. 

The Treacherous stairs and all of my grumbling, however, was completely nullified when we got to see Cusco lit up and laid out before us like a glittering tapestry.

I love this city. It's beautiful, but that's not all. It's... Vibrant. Teeming with energy.

Tomorrow we head to greater altitudes, at the mountain village of Misminay. Excited for what the week will bring.

Much love,

- G