On to Cusco!

We really enjoyed our time in Ollantaytambo, the people were so friendly, the views of the ruins in the surrounding mountains were beautiful and the town itself was fun to explore.  I would love to go back again another day and discover the area more!!

Our hotel arranged our taxi back to Cusco, the Collectivo is something everyone should "enjoy" but we wanted to have time in Cusco so time waiting for a full van vs more money, we went with more money and had a truly enjoyable taxi ride.  Driver really only spoke Spanish and Cierra had to put hers to work but we learned alot about the cities and countryside we went through.  

Our hotel also recommended a hotel in Cusco I had seen online so before leaving we booked the Tierra Viva Cusco Centro for our night in Cusco.   After about a 2hr taxi ride our driver had us at the hotel door and we were pleasantly surprised with the room, service, and friendly staff.  The location was great for walking and exploring!

 With map in hand from the hotel we took off to explore Cusco, 1st place we decided would be the Mercado Central de San Pedro a market Cierra had seen online ~ WOW what a huge market, everything under 1 roof!

 Loved the market, souvenirs, alpaca goods, juice bar, fruits/vegs, meats, breads oh so many wonderful breads,!! cheeses, eggs, flowers, local meal bar we could of spent the whole afternoon just in this market.  We did buy some bread to eat as we walked around.

Next on the list of spots we wanted to see was the Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asis de Cusco just a short walk down the street.  We opted for the private guided tour through, he did speak English, and so glad we did.  A grand monastery with beautiful paintings, catacombs, organ with wood carved choir stalls and the breathtaking church.  My first experience touring crypts and that was different!

Next we headed down to The Plaza de Armas, we were so lucky to have a beautiful day to enjoy lunch with a stunning view ~ 

Wandered our way back to the hotel with some fresh baked goods for late night snacking.

Early morning flight back to Lima on Avianca enjoyed our continental breakfast and the hotel had our cab waiting.  We had some time in Lima airport as the flight to Miami was late in the evening.

 Did learn that as an airline employee you want to be sure and physically check in at the ticket counter for your international flights 2hrs before.  A friend had told me this and I thought kiosk was ok, it wasn't check in with an agent at the ticket counter!
Off we headed to Miami thinking we would connect in the morning out to Phoenix and home~ 

*next blog ~ our costs of the Machu Picchu trip~