If you're looking for Peru inspired gifts, you've come to the right place! Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Food and Drinks
There's no denying that Peruvian cooking has a kick to it. If someone you know is looking to add some spice to their life, why not get them some aji amarillo? It won't put their mouth on fire, but it will definitely add spice to a dish.
For the cook in your life, get them a Peruvian cookbook. They have tons of great recipes like ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, papa rellena, and much more.
If someone you know loves trying different alcoholic drinks from around the would, they should definitely try Pisco Sour. If they like taking shots, there are a number of Peruvian shot glasses to choose from. And despite what the Chileans may say, Pisco is Peruvian. If you want to buy a unique non-alcoholic drink for someone, try Inca Kola. It's what Coca Cola is to the USA and what Irn Bru is to Scotland.
Alpaca
Wool socks are a game changer. Once you try them out you won't go back to cotton socks. They can
last for years, are much better for your feet than cotton since
they're anti-fungal, and many of them can be tossed in the dryer.
Alpaca is superior to wool since it is softer, warmer, and has no
lanolin which means it's hypoallergenic. Alpaca socks
aren't as cheap as cotton socks, but you're paying for quality.
Considering how much use you'll get out of them, they are a relatively
inexpensive gift, so buy a pair or two for yourself as well.
Alpaca sweaters are warm and have gorgeous designs. They're super soft and people love wearing them. Traditional Peruvian hats, such as the chullo, will keep your loved ones warm through the cold winter months. Don't forget a warm shawl or even a poncho that they can wrap around themselves to protect them from windy days.
Alpaca can be used for more than clothing. It also makes great blankets and throws. It's great for cozying up on the couch and drinking hot cocoa, from a Peruvian mug, of course.
Music
If you know someone who could benefit from the gift of music, let the relaxing sounds of traditional Peruvian music take away the holiday stress. For the musician in your life, let them make their own music, you can get them a pan flute, rain stick, or if they're more adventurous, the cajon.
Books
There are a number of good books about Peruvian history. The book Peru: An Ancient Andean Civilization provides a great intro to Peru. You've got to read New York Times Best Seller: Turn Right at Machu Picchu. Finally, The Last Day of the Incas is an epic story. For the person in your life who loves coffee table books, Peru from the Andes to the Amazon is a great photographic journey around Peru.
More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.
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Friday, November 16, 2012
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Visa Fees for Latin America
If you're in Peru chances are you're going to want to travel to other countries nearby. Keep in mind that you'll probably end up paying visa / entry fees. Here's some info on what those are.
- Boots N All: they tell you how to legally get out of paying the fees.
- The Last Day of the Incas: an epic story that can't be missed
- Matador Network: guide for Americans.
- Peruvian culture: culture, history, and more.
- Project Visa: (Their info for Peru is wrong: says you can only get 90 days when it was changed to up to 183 days quite a while ago. Be sure to double check their info.)
- Latin America Spanish phrasebook: lots of good travel info.
- South American Living: info about Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay.
- Turn Right at Machu Picchu: A New York Times best seller about rediscovering the lost city one step at a time
- Wikipedia World Wide Guide: has to be included in the list