Northern Peru

It was fitting that the land the bus rumbled through in northern Peru was a vast desert sucked dry of water and nourishment. It is a befitting landscape for a country with a turbulent history, torn apart by war, drugs, conquests, corruption, and explotation. I stared blankly as we passed pueblos full of small adobe houses with only a tin roof held down by rocks supplying protection from the elements. Mototaxis, buses, and old cars zipped around the streets, crisscrossing intersections with the skill and awareness of veteran Nascar drivers. The chaos seemed on the verge of explosion, yet, to my amazement, no accidents occured and the system functioned. I was content to stare out the window and watch the world pass by. I had just safely crossed what is known as ¨the most dangerous border crossing in all of South America¨, and had done so with some nervousness but with little evidence that could validate the claim. I was expecting theives, corrupt border officials, crazy taxi drivers who would rob you of all possessions, and pickpocketing children. I received curtiosness, honesty, and not a thief or pickpocket in sight. Either way, my time in Ecuador had come to an end and another chapter, Peru, was opening in front of me.

I made brief stops in Piura and Chiclayo only to break up my journey. However, I was drawn to Chiclayo imparticular for its Mercado Modelo, also known as the witches market. It is known to have potions and elixers for numerous ailments and purposes. Drinks to bring luck, trinkets for love, crocodile teeth for increased wealth, and soap that can bring all three. I was unsure if the sellers really believed in their products or were only trying to make a buck. I couldnt get a straight answer because whenever I asked if these objects provided the intended result, I was told of course they do (stupid question right?). What would you say if you were selling your car and I asked you if it was a good car? Therefore, I will never know if I could have washed with special soap and become a millionare with all the love I needed and enough luck to last a life time.

My time here is flying by and I am starting to feel the pressure of the real world and life away from this adventure. I have 3 months left and still want to explore Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina, while considering my future, trying to land some volunteer positions, and studying more Spanish. Maybe if there was an elixer to slow time or offer me extra I would have purchased it. Oh well, there are always options and I am open to the possibility that life can offer the answer when you least expect it.