When I first arrived at Lake Titicaca, I was more than excited to get on the boat and start exploring. About a half hour from shore, we stopped at a floating island. I was instantly astounded by the feel of the reeds beneath my feet. I initially thought that the island was like a market on a raft of floating reeds. Instead, reality was much more interesting. Each year when the lake rises with the rain, large chunks of roots break off and float to the surface. The residents of the lake then … [Read more...]

More than anything on this trip, I was looking forward to our trek to Choquequirao. At first, I was nervous because I have never done anything like this before. Unlike most of my fellow scholars, I am not what you would call an experienced hiker. I enjoy more small strolls through Whatcom Falls or a walk down to Boulevard. Nonetheless, for some reason, a trek sounded like an incredible learning and growing opportunity that I could not pass up. We started off with a night of luxury at a gorgeous … [Read more...]