Machu Picchu

We arrived at Machu Picchu on Tuesday, after a fun train ride. It uses switchbacks to go up the mountains, so at times you are riding forwards, then backwards. We arrived in Aguas Calientes, and had a fun time trying to find a cheap hotel with space and toliet paper. We finally found one, and then we went on a hike to the top of Putukusi to see the views of Machu Picchu from there. It was a nice steep climb, up some nice slipperly ladders. We saw some orchids, but none in flower. The air was nice and clean, and the view turned out to be amazing. That night, John received good news, that BRIT Peru is official, so we went out and celebrated. I wouldn't give Aguas Calientes any stars for entertainment. Some of the clubs were bought out by tourists, and the others had kids. But we had an interesting night. The next day, after making John get up, we took the bus up and saw Machu Picchu. It was amazing. Lots of tourists and guides and groups, but nothing too bad. I had sunscreen on, but I even got burnt. And a few insect bites. I was hanging out by myself on a rock in some shade, and a little Peruvian girl came and sat by me. She was making hand signals to someone, her mom I guess, and asked me if she could have a picture with me. I was a little confused, but I said yes. Then an older Peruvian lady sat by me, and also wanted a picture with me. I like to think it is because I have green eyes...but honestly, maybe they just wanted a picture with a gringa. On the way down the trail(we decided to walk instead of riding the bus), I met a girl, Clinique, who is from Israel. She just finished her stint in the army, and is on an eight month break. All in all, it was amazing, and I loved it. Anyone who has a chance to see it, should see it. The views are spectacular, the architecture is inspiring, and the air is crisp and clean.