With any vacation, including cruising, the weather is always a potential problem, but you make your plans and take your chances. On this early Spring cruise in Alaska the weather was terrible – it rained constantly and one morning, looking out on deck there was this soaking wet black bird just walking across the pool deck. Seemed to sum up the problem…
The Intentional Travelers Guide to over 150 cruise ports of call
Nestled in the Andes of Peru above 11,000 feet is the old capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco. Boasting a population of around a half million the city’s biggest draw is that it is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. If your plan has you passing through Cusco on your way to Machu Picchu do yourself a favor and plan a few days in this interesting city.
In the middle of Cusco is the old historic district acts as a magnet drawing crowds into the city’s beautiful main square, the Plaza de Armas. This square marks both the Spanish colonial center of the city and the site of the capital of the vast Inca Empire. The Plaza features a large public space with gardens and wide pathways anchored by two iconic buildings, the magnificent Cusco Cathedral and the Church La Compania de Jesus. Ringing this large space are a number of good restaurants, cafes and shops with narrow streets radiating off in several directions. Within a half mile radius of the Plaza de Armas you’ll find over fifteen hundred years of historic sites and museums to explore.
Qorikancha – Located among examples of of several colonial Spanish buildings are these Inca ruins that actually form the foundations of a church and the convent of Santo Domingo. These large carved stones were once part of the richest temple in the whole of the Inca Empire.
Iglesia de La Compañía de Jesús – Built upon the foundation of the palace of Inca Emperor Huayna Cápac, the last Inca to rule the unconquered empire, this church was built by the Jesuits in 1571.
Cusco Cathedral – An ornate building housing a number of significant artworks, chapels featuring an interesting blend of Catholicism and local Indian culture.
Museo Inka – The amazing collections of the Museo Inka, a block northeast of the Plaza de Armas, is the largest display of Inca and pre-Inca artifacts anywhere.
Museo de la Coca – The Andean coca leaf culture permeates the region and this little museum traces the uses of the coca leaf, from sacred ritual to helping to overcome altitude sickness.*
In 1983, Cusco and the historic district were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO with the title “City of Cuzco”.
While strolling through the area don’t shy away from the opportunity to shop with the many sellers dressed in traditional Indian garb offering scarves, hats and stuffed animals. Negotiating a price is part of the fun. Also the wide range of Peruvian restaurants in the historic district offer opportunities to try Peruvian foods like grilled guinea pig or llama prepared in a variety of traditional ways. For those less adventurous the plaza also offers a McDonalds and a KFC.
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If you’re new to cruising or maybe you’re thinking about booking your next cruise The Intentional Travelers have some great ideas to help you get the most from your cruise and save money too. We’ve taken over 70 cruises and learned a lot. In the articles listed below we offer links to lots of posts to save you money and help you get the most out of your cruise…
Saving Money Booking Your Cruise
8 solid suggestions on saving money on your first cruise and future cruises.
Ideas On Selecting The Right Stateroom
Inside, outside, veranda or suite there are choices to fit every lifestyle and budget. Ideas on staterooms to watch out for and our thoughts on picking the right cabin.
All About Stateroom Upgrades
In cruising at times you will be offered a cabin upgrade, sometimes befor you cruise you’ll get a chance to even bid on an upgrade…
A Guide To Cruise Gratuities
Generally required gratuities are spelled out when booking your cruise but there are additional times when tipping is recommended.
What To Pack For A Cruise
While onboard dress is evolving there’s still a set of important considerations on what to pack for your cruise
All About Sea Sickness?
First time cruisers often have concerns about sea sickness. While some people are prone to it the fear is way over blown.
Things To Bring To Make Your Cruise Even Better
A few ideas to enhance your stateroom, add some character to your cruise and help celebrate a bit more…
Joining A Cruise Loyalty Program
There are a lot of reasons to become a member of a cruise loyalty program and almost none not to. Even if you plan only cruising occasionally you still should join.
Booking Shore Excursions Or Doing It Yourself
Shore excursions are a major part of cruising but going as hore on your own can bea better option
More On Stateroom Selection
Additional factors to consider in stateroom selection. From noise issues to the ships motion there are other things to consider in cabins.
Celebrating Holidays At Sea
Looking for a special way to celebrate a holiday with the family? Halloween and Christmas are amazing on a cruise ship.
Great Cruising Hacks
From clearing money off your account to saving on drinks or beating the high cost of cell service.
Consider A Repositioning Cruise
Quiet days at sea, same great food, entertainment and often lectures and craft classes, all at a reduced price…
The Truth About Cruise Pricing
There’s a lot of false advertising and misrepresentation about cruise pricing. Here’s the facts about who has the best prices!
The Atlantic coast of the Emerald Isle is some of the worlds most treacherous places for mariners. Steep cliffs with jagged, submerged rocks have ripped gashes in literally thousands of ship’s hulls. That is why this dangerous coast boasts one of the worlds highest concentration of lighthouses.
You’ll discover lots of worthwhile and interesting travel ideas with The Intentional Travelers, and the best way to find what you’re looking for is to SEARCH here…
Traveling through Morocco you discover a traditional serving of tea is a regular event. From restaurants to cafes and at sidewalk stands the style and cermoney are remarkably consistant.
Moroccan tea, locally referred to as Maghrebi mint tea, is a unique preparation made with gunpowder green tea and served with spearmint leaves and sugar, and enjoyed throughout the day. Regardless of location the tea is served in a ceremonial manner, typically poured from a height of one or two feet to create froth, signifying hospitality, and is traditionally offered three times, each with varying levels of sweetness. Serving tea is an essential part of Moroccan culture and is usually done in front of guests, making it a communal experience and a way to share moments with family. Friends and visiters.
You’ll discover lots of worthwhile and interesting travel ideas with The Intentional Travelers, and the best way to find what you’re looking for is to SEARCH here…
While strolling down the Via Nazionale in Rome some time ago, the scene of a Roman meter maid writing a parking ticket for a smart car that was parked up on a sidewalk struck me as very funny. Just couldn’t resist…
The Intentional Travelers Guide to over 150 cruise ports of call
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