Cuzco

Cuzco is the former capital of the Inca empire and the jumping off point for Machu Picchu.

At an elevation of 3300M above sea, it has cool, crisp air and blue skys which provides a warm blanket of clean air over the lovely colonial town square. Beautiful cathedrals, fountains and archways honour its colonial past. The cobble stone, narrow streets are sprinkled with the old Inca walls and lined with artisan shops, museums, restaurants and, of course, tour agencies.

Surrounding the city are a number of mountains which gives it a nice frame. I stayed at a hostel with, yet again, a wonderful roof top patio to soak in the scenery each morning. Although touristy, I loved this quiet, safe, lovely town.