Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Lazy Dog Days in Huaraz

On Tuesday, we arrived at the Anta airport, after flying in a small prop plane (only twenty passengers!) over the Andes Mountains. It was an amazing flight, a great start to the second half of our Peruvian vacation: we were headed to Huaraz, for some killer trekking.

But first, before trekking, we were scheduled to spend a few days relaxing at The Lazy Dog Inn. We weren't sure what to expect of this mountain lodge, as the Lonely Planet recomendations can be hit or miss. However, this one was a major hit! Top 40!

We were greeted at the airport by a friendly taxi driver. Much to Jeremy's dismay, he was not holding a sign that said, "Bolton" on it. No worries, though. Within an hour we were driving along a rocky road past ruins and small pueblo towns (in a Toyota Corolla wagon that could go toe to toe with any Jeep Rubicon).

The sky was blue and the sun was shining. Upon arrival at the Inn, we practically skipped to our personal cabin, the place was so perfect... The entire property was built by hand, without machinery or electricity. The walls of the lodge and cabins were constructed with adobe bricks, made from the mud and nearby land. The bathrooms include dry compost toilets. The ceilings have skylights to promote natural light. Our cabin also had its own fireplace.

We dropped off our bags to head to the lodge for lunch, walking past gardens of fresh vegetables that were incorporated into all of our meals. We stayed in the best cabin at the inn, we were served breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day we stayed here, and we spent less than $100 per day. In addition, as this place is 100% sustainable, we made no negative impact on the environment. :)

We spent most of our time just relaxing. However one morning, we rode the inn keepers' personal horses around the local country side. Neither one of us had been on a horse in many years prior to this ride. I was absolutely terrified at first, while Jeremy, who grew up with horses, was a regular cowboy. I got the hang of things soon enough, and for the next two hours, I couldn't stop smiling. Jeremy was all grins, as well.

And when we finished our ride, I asked, "Can we move to Colorado and have our own horses?" I don't think I have ever seen Jeremy happier...




2 comments:

  1. So glad you're having such a blast!

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  2. I was wondering about you and riding horses -- I never heard you say anything about this before. I only rode horses once -- it was pretty cool. Now, what is this about Colorado? I am just getting used to San Francisco. JK

    I am very happy that you and Jeremy had a great time -- and I am also very happy that you are both safe and sound and back in the USA again too. (That is what parents do.)

    Love
    Dad

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