2017 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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 Drink
Peruvian grains are becoming famous around the world. A great healthy gift is maca. There's a reason this super food is getting tons of attention. It's much better than rice and packed with nutrition.

Paneton and hot chocolate is a staple during the Christmas season. Don't forget a Peruvian mug. While some might snub their nose at fruitcake (paneton), Peruvians love it. If you're in Peru, drinking hot chocolate during summer might seem odd, but hey, it's Christmas, so why not?

Know someone who loves cooking? The Fire of Peru: Recipes and Stories from My Peruvian Kitchen is a great cookbook written by Ricardo Zarate. True to the title, he also has stories in this cookbook, which make it all the more interesting. The cookbook has tons of recipes like lomo saltado, causa, ceviche, pisco sour (Pisco is Peruvian), loads of sauces, and more.

 
Alpaca
Forget about cotton, alpaca is a game changer. It is superior than wool since it is softer, warmer, and has no lanolin which means it's hypoallergenic. Some people say it's as luxurious as cashmere, but more durable and longer lasting. Good socks can last for years. They're much better for your feet than cotton since they're anti-fungal, and many of them can be tossed in the dryer. You have got to try Alpaca socks for yourself, check out these: they are terry lined for extra warmth! 


Alpaca makes great blankets and throws. This alpaca throw is gorgeous and cozy. The rich colors are sure to cheer you up during the dreary winter days. It's great for cozying up on the couch and drinking hot cocoa, from a Peruvian mug with a llama on it, of course.

Accessories

Small gifts can be wonderful. This hand painted coin purse or this traditional purse, as well as fine jewelry like this blue Opal to woven handicrafts like these bracelets are sure to make unique gifts.

If you're looking for a practical gift, look no further than Tumi, which is a Peru inspired company that makes quality bags, backpacks, and luggage that are made to last.

Homemade gifts are always appreciated. Here's some yarn available in traditional Peruvian colors so you can knit your heart out and make someone a blanket to snuggle up to this winter.  

More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

2016 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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 Drink
Peruvian grains are becoming famous around the world. A great healthy gift is maca. There's a reason this super food is getting tons of attention. It's much better than rice and packed with nutrition.

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. Chicha morada is a drink made from purple corn. Although it sounds weird, it's really good and unique to Peru.

Know someone who loves cooking? Peruvian cookbooks have tons of great recipes like ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, papa rellena, and much more.

Alpaca
Wool socks are a game changer. Once you try them out you won't go back to cotton socks. Wool socks can last for years, they're 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 than wool since it is softer, warmer, and has no lanolin which means it's hypoallergenic. If you haven't tried alpaca socks, you definitely need to!

Traditional Peruvian hats, such as the chullo, will keep you warm through the cold winter months. Don't forget a warm shawl or even a poncho that you can wrap around you to protect you from windy days. Alpaca can be used for more than clothing. It also makes great blankets and throws. You can cozy up on your couch and drink hot cocoa from a Peruvian mug.

Christmas Ornaments
Ornaments make great gifts. There are a number of Peruvian ornaments out there, such as Machu Picchu, nativity scenes, llamas, and the Peruvian flag.

Accessories
Tumi  is a Peru inspired company that makes quality bags, backpacks, and luggage that are made to last.

More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

The Real Price of Gold

Image source

It's strange how our society values things that are relatively worthless and convinces people that not only do they need them, but they should pay a lot for them. I've heard of blood diamonds and decided way before I got married not to get a diamond wedding ring. Precious metals also have a dark side to them.

I recently came across this article published by National Geographic in January 2009 about the real price of gold. While 7 years old it still holds true today. It has loads of interesting subjects, such as Incas, coca, pisco, an ancient lottery system that is still used today, Quechua, shantytowns, and the impracticality of gold which makes it an interesting read. Gold is Peru's biggest export and Peru is the fifth largest exporter of gold in the world. All this comes at a price though. 

At 13 pages it is a bit of a long article, but it's thought-provoking and makes me think how first world countries take advantage of third world countries. Other countries such as Indonesia, India, China, and the US are mentioned as the history of gold is discussed. There are a number of good books about Peruvian history, such as the New York Times Best Seller: Turn Right at Machu Picchu and The Last Day of the Incas if you're interested n learning more.

Some people believe that the bubble has burst and that gold will no longer be as highly valued as it is today.Gold Bubble: Profiting From Gold's Impending Collapse discusses the history of gold and talks about what the future brings.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

2015 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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
Paneton and hot chocolate is a staple during the Christmas season. Don't forget a Peruvian mug. While some might snub their nose at fruitcake (paneton), Peruvians love it. Drinking hot chocolate during summer might seem odd, but hey, it's Christmas, so why not?

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. Chicha morada is a drink made from purple corn. Although it sounds weird, it's really good and unique to Peru.

For the cook in your life, Peruvian cookbooks are the way to go. They'll find great recipes like ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, papa rellena, and much more.

Blankets and Throws
When people think of warm winter blankets, they often think of wool. Alpaca is superior than wool since it is softer, warmer, and has no lanolin which means it's hypoallergenic. It makes great blankets and throws with rich colours. It's great for cozying up on the couch and drinking hot cocoa, from a Peruvian mug, of course.

Pima Cotton 
Peru has quality material such as alpaca and pima cotton. When buying cloth, don't skimp on the price since you will get what you pay for. Although something might be more expensive, it will probably last much longer than the cheaper item and therefore save you money in the long-run.

Famous throughout the world, pima cotton is used to make many things such as sheets, clothing for kids and babies, as well as shirts for adults.

Shoes and Accessories
Inkkas is a great company that uses local resources and gives back to the community. Their shoes are handmade by artisans in Peru using ethically sourced material from South America. The result is sustainable footwear with rich colours and unique designs.

Peruvian jewelry ranges from fine jewelry to woven handicrafts. Bracelets featuring the Nazca Lines and a Tumi pendant make pretty, unique gifts.

More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

2014 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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
Paneton and hot chocolate is a staple during the Christmas season. While some might snub their nose at fruitcake (paneton), Peruvians love it. Drinking hot chocolate during summer might seem odd, but hey, it's Christmas, so why not? While Colombia might be famous for coffee, any coffee connoisseur will know to check out Peruvian coffee. Check out Peruvian coffee beans and unroasted beans as well. Don't forget a Peruvian mug.

For the cook in your life, Peruvian cookbooks are the way to go. They'll find great recipes like ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, papa rellena, and much more.

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 are amazing. 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 nice for cozying up on the couch and drinking hot cocoa, from a Peruvian mug, of course.

Decor
Machu Picchu is absolutely breath taking. There's some gorgeous wall art featuring this famous landmark that will be sure to get everyone's attention. If you know someone who wants to add some unique Peruvian decor to their home, consider a map of Peru. Ranging from old fashioned maps to watercolors, there's something for everyone.

Jewelry
Peruvian jewelry ranges from fine jewelry to woven handicrafts. Bracelets featuring the Nazca Lines and a Tumi pendant make pretty, unique gifts.

More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

Beware the Bait and Switch in Peru

Bait and switch can refer to a number of things, such as jobs and shopping, but it always refers to fraud. Recruiters may use bait and switch when they dangle a cushy job in front of someone only to change it at the last minute. It's also commonly used in Peru when shopping at the markets or buying something off someone on the street. I've known plenty of people who have fallen victim to this trick both in Peru and elsewhere. Here are some tips to help you avoid the bait and switch trap.

From http://www.findingbetteragencies.com/category/agency-search/page/16/

Take your time. Sellers who use bait and switch try to get time on their side and have you rush. When you rush you're not paying as much attention. Beware of people who want to make you rush.

Refuse a bag. Bags can hide a lot of sins. If there's no bag it's harder for the seller to hide anything.

Buy from reputable people. I love shopping at markets, but some people hate it. The noise, the sellers hawking their wares, etc. However, if you can build relationships with the people you buy from you'll find it can be a great experience. They might give you discounts or the latest and the greatest. Ask other people who they buy from and keep going back to people who give you good deals and good items.

Speak Spanish. Sick of getting the foreigner's price? Learn Spanish. Plain and simple. It's a pretty easy to learn a couple of words and phrases here and there. Knowing Spanish will help you assimilate to the culture and you'll be able to communicate easier.

Be careful about meeting people you find online. I find that living abroad is safer than living at home. I've met many of my friends online through Facebook, forums, and even Craigslist. Back home you wouldn't do that. However, not everyone is safe. Meeting people online can always be dangerous. Be sure to meet in a well-lit place, preferably during the day with other people around.

Trust your instinct. If something doesn't feel right it probably isn't. Move on and find somewhere else to go shopping.

More Shopping Tips
I wrote about markets in Lima as well as shopping in Peru and while markets are great, you have to be careful. Shopping in markets can be a fun experience. These 3 tips will help you make the most of your shopping experience.

1. Get recommendations: ask friends which sellers are good and which ones should be avoided.
2. Pricing: be wary of pricing, especially sellers who drop their prices drastically.
3. Trust your instinct: it's usually right.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

2013 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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
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. Chicha morada is a drink made from purple corn. Although it sounds weird, it's really good and unique to Peru.


Pima Cotton 
Peru has quality material such as alpaca (used to make blankets and clothing) and pima cotton. When buying cloth, don't skimp on the price since you will get what you pay for. Although something might be more expensive, it will probably last much longer than the cheaper item and therefore save you money in the long-run.

Famous throughout the world, pima cotton is used to make many things such as sheets, clothing for kids and babies, as well as shirts for adults.

Christmas Ornaments
Ornaments make great gifts. There are a number of Peruvian ornaments out there, such as Machu Picchu, nativity scenes, llamas, and the Peruvian flag.

Accessories
Tumi is a Peru inspired company that makes gorgeous bags and luggage. The quality can't be beat either. Whether you're looking to give someone a bag for business, travel, or casual, they've got you covered.

More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other Peru inspired gift guides I've written.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement

2012 Peru Inspired Gift Guide

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.

Disclaimer:

• Please join my Patreon page
• I use affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on links. Read more at my FTC Disclosure and Privacy Policy Statement