Post #10: Return to Cusco - Peru Rail entertainment

February 1, 2011
Peru Rail train ride
Left Aguas Caliente 4:00 p.m.
Arrived Urubamba bus station
Arrived Cusco for late dinner

Map showing route from Cusco to Aguas Caliente to Machu Picchu



Aguas Caliente - all aboard
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge

 About 4:00 p.m. we boarded the train southeast to Cusco (although Cusco is higher in altitude) where we'd stay overnight and fly out the next morning for Puerto Maldonado (far lower in altitude).  Puerto Maldonado is the only airport in the area of the Amazon jungle eco-lodge we where would stay for three days.

Train ride

First, dinner. 

Love those potatoes
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge

Then a staff person dressed in a traditional Peruvian ceremonial costume did a little jig down the aisle to traditional music, being silly with the guests, sort of like Puff, the mascot, at the Orlando Magic basketball games.  We imagined he immitated a traditional shamanic/healer character, but we weren't totally sure.



Shaman?
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge

Then the stewardess and steward who served the meal transformed themselves into models for Peruvian Alpaca sweaters and coats, selling to the captured customers - us - while we whiled away our time riding and eating and making sign language to our Japanese fellow travelers. 

Alpaca sweaters for sale.
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge



Sweater card headed our way...
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge



Sold! Hoyt Edge the shopper.
Photo by Charlene Lamy Edge

Travel tip:  Watch out for your wallets!  Shopping can be hazardous.

Next post:  Night on the town in Cusco before leaving civilization for the jungle.