Internet and phone service was spotty in Peru for me so I was unable to post everyday as I had hoped. Here I am at home reflecting back on such a fascinating  place and trip.

Our day in Puno was day cruise to several islands in the lake. The first were the Uros Islands which are made of reeds.  Everything is made of tortora reeds: houses, boats, furniture….everything! They even eat the stuff!  We were hosted by a family with Juana as the matriarch. She invited us into her home and offered to have us try her clothes.  I could not resist:

Definitely my favorite colors!  Embroidery and other textiles are their main source of income so I had to buy one of Juana’s embroidered pillow cases.

The next island was very different. It was a farming community.  The scenery and the lunch were beautiful. The men wear a specific outfit with their cap indicating their marriage status. The father of the prospective son-in-law inspects the workmanship. If it meets the father’s criteria then the fellow can date his daughter.We ate fresh trout from Lake Titicaca in the open air overlooking the fields of flowers, sheep and quinoa growing.

That evening when we were back ashore we had dinner with a dance show and music.

We also took a walk to the main square.

Sad that tomorrow is the last day in Peru!