The South American Capital - where the City meets the Sea

Before we leave Cusco, I wanted to share a few photos from the Monasterio which was our home for two nights while in Cusco, Peru. It is a former monastery dating back to 1592 and is considered a protected national monument.

That final photo of the door within a door [won't surprise those of you who know Jeff] is a part of a collection of doors and door knockers from around the world.

Upon leaving Cusco, we were disappointed about missing out on Machu Picchu. However, true to Royal Caribbean's form and despite the situation of the protestors being out of their control, they organized a tour in Lima to lift our spirits. After a somewhat entertaining trip back to the ship (where we observed trucks, cars and even motorcycles try to outrun an oncoming train), we spent a brief moment "back home" before leaving the ship once again.

Our first destination was Love Park, located in the upscale neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima, Peru, surrounded by mosaics with phrases and poems about love in Spanish and Quechua, inspired by Park Güell designed by Antoni Gaudí, in Barcelona, Spain. Love Park consists of decorative mosaic walls and benches and a sculpture of kissing lovers. While there we heard and saw the Melodious Blackbird, known for its melodious and loud whistling calls (such a big "voice" for such a small bird.)

We made the most of the opportunity to enjoy a Peruvian Pisco Sour - our favorites - made with freshly cracked eggs. They were exceptional ... along with the best Brushetta we've ever had!

Our next stop was the Circuito Mágico del Agua, famous for its impressive fountains, light shows, and interactive features. The park holds the Guinness Book record for the largest fountain complex in the world, displaying 13 distinct fountains with continuously changing color schemes and is the second most visited site in Peru besides Machu Picchu.

Jeff might of wanted to ride the train, but foiled again , this time because it was filled with a younger crowd!

After yet another quickly-arranged yet impressive family style dinner in Peru, we returned to the Serenade of the Seas. Isabelle, the shore excursions director, was there to greet us. Our thanks to her and her team for all they did to make this a memorable three days. We'ill need a few days to recover from the adventure (as Jeff whispered to me - RCCL might have forgotten how old some of us are )