27.10.10 Homestay with a Peruvian family in Arequipa

Max was so kind to give me a lift to the family on Wednesday night (28.10.10). I was so thankful as it would have been very hard for me to introduce myself in Spanish.

Vicky, my host mother wasn't at home when we arrived but Randy her 19 year old son greeted us at the door. After a quick introduction, Max left and Randy helped me carrying my two backpacks into my room. The house was very big and very clean and I was very impressed when I saw the size of my room and how nice it was. I couldn't believe that I even had a bathroom just for myself. Wow… what a difference to the hostel I stayed in before. This house was like a four star hotel!

After I started unpacking my backpack, Vicky arrived. We went downstairs into the kitchen where we chatted for 2 hours. Don't ask me how…..but we only spoke in Spanish!!! Vicky is widowed and is living with her two son's Kevin (29) and Randy (19) in the nice and secure suburb of Yanahuarra. Her daughter Lesley (30) lives in Montreal/Canada at the moment. Even though that Kevin speaks German and English and Randy English…..but we agreed on only talking Spanish during my stay. Ok….sometimes if it is really necessary we throw in a few words of English.

The other day I met Johanna the housekeeper. Johanna told me (as much I could understand her) that she has been working for the family for 30 years. I just could not believe it and I somehow liked her very much from the first moment. Well probably because she spoils me every morning with a freshly squeezed orange juice and a gourmet lunch after school.