These are images from Cusco, Peru, the closest jumping off point for the Inca Trail. Cusco is at high elevation, so it takes some acclimatization. The city is charming, despite its concession to the tourist trade.The center of the city is the Plaza de Armas, from which each of these pictures was taken. The Plaza is lined with restaurants and shops, and is clearly designed as the focal point for tourists. Most of Cusco, however, is a nice blend of the familiar (to those of us from the Northern and Western hemispheres) and native. It helps to brush up on your Spanish. It is not so modernized that everyone speaks English (at the bank, for example).
Many of the hostels are quaint -- and inexpensive by American standards.
You can pretty much walk anywhere from any of the hostels in Cusco. Get extra blankets, though. The rooms are not heated. I stayed at Hostel Amaru.
I highly recommend exploring the city at sunrise and sunset. It is beautiful, situated in a valley amongst the Andes mountains. Enjoying some tea in the Plaza before the other tourists awake is very pleasant. You also may avoid some of the native teenagers selling knick-knacks (although some of them are fun to talk to, and it's a good way to brush up on your Spanish).There are innumerable cathedrals, which are beautiful inside and out. Take the time to explore a palace or two as well. Most of them are now hotels, but with a little imagination you can envision how they once were.
While you are there, try some native dishes. My favorite lunch spot was Pacha Papa in the San Blas area. It is a patio restaurant with an outdoor clay (or stone?) oven. For artsy dinners, try Macondo or Fallen Angel. Both are gorgeous, and have incredible food. I also enjoyed my after-dinner coffee and conversation at The Muse and a quiet casual dinner at the Blueberry Lounge.
