Orientation day in Ollantaytambo

Leaders: Desire and Matt

Photographers and BLOG authors: Johnny and Becca

Last night the entire group was treated to a prime time guitar and vocal performance given by Max Gómez and Matt Ko. The performance became a grand opera as everyone joined in on rousing renditions of such classics as “Hey Jude”, “Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone”, and “Rack City”. But bedtime came quickly and we rested up for our first full day in Ollantaytambo at high altitude.

After breakfast at 8 o’clock we took part in a scavenger hunt organized by Aima, one of our gracious hosts. We explored the town in pairs hunting for landmarks and talking to local residents. The hunt lasted two hours, highlighted by meeting a pig and her piglets, as well as meeting Chewie, a friendly shopkeeper eager to help us find our listed locations. Everyone met up for lunch before heading into town again.

A group of us visited the local soccer field, having heard that a pickup game was starting around 4 o’clock. Sure enough, after playing by ourselves for a little while, a horde of kids came out to play. We had an unbelievably fun time playing six on six, although our constant wheezing and panting due to the altitude will not help counter stereotypes about American fitness levels.

Those of us who don’t play too much soccer decided to go shopping. We walked through the colorful stalls looking for bargains. There were alpaca hats, scarves, sweaters, and socks, as well as jewelry, key chains, bags, trinkets, and various knick-knacks. Haggling went well and everyone recounted stories of their best bargains.

Dinner was delicious once again. Everyone hit the hay quickly, but not before playing some rowdy card games of BS and Egyptian Ratscrew.

Everyone will sleep with excitement; tomorrow we meet our homestay families! After an early morning hike at 9,000 feet of course.

To Ben, Adam, Mom, and Dad: Please say hi to people for me! And let everyone at the Casino know about the blog, because I just found out that if I sent a postcard it would arrive in September. I miss y’all. Oh, and Adam, maybe being at 10,000 feet will help me beat you in a mile race. It’s on like Donkey Kong.

Hi DK, mom, and dad!!! I miss you all and can’t wait to see you in two weeks! I hope you aren’t having too much fun without me.  I’m doing well and the views are beautiful! Love you! xoxoxoxo Becca