Ciao Peru

We had an awesome time in Mancora, Peru. The town is a small surf town that makes you think what America's beaches might have been like 50 or 60 years ago. No highrises, no chain hotels, but lots of little mom and pop hostels. Ours was named WaWa's and was located about 70 feet from high tide. This was also the local surfer hangout, due to its prime location right at the point break.
Brent and I spent a lot of our time sitting in the sun, but we did get out and move a little bit. We took surfing lessons and I really loved it. How about that, a sport I like that I can get into for less than $300. Maybe not a great sport for Atlanta, but I will be in Panama City Florida for a while so maybe I will be able to keep it up. Brent took some kite surfing lessons. He learned to fly the kite very well and was able to practice in the water some, but ran out of wind and time before he could attempt the board and kite together. I went running a few times and explored the area. On the first run I headed out and ended up seeing where the real people of Mancora live. Kinda scary. I took a wrong turn at the beach an was in the middle of shanty town. No power, not sure about running water, but surprisingly neat. Still I was a little nervous being "white american girl with ipod alone" but made it thru without incident. I have found that every Peruvian I have met has been extremely friendly and helpful.
We met a fellow American at our hostel named Earl. He was traveling alone from California and we hit it off immediately. I got a lot of surfing pointers from him, as well as some really funny and interesting stories.
Our last day in Mancora was supposed to be Friday, leaving on the bus at 5pm. However, when we arrived at the terminal, we learned that it was labor day and no busses were running. You would think they might tell you this when you buy your ticket 5 days earlier. Fortunately we had wiggle room in our schedule and were able to enjoy a bonus day at the beach.
We are flying out of Lima this morning and will be spending our last night in South America in Buenos Aires. I am looking forward to seeing my adopted home again and am sad it is only for a one night stand. Well, gotta finish packing.
Later!