Celebrating its 20th anniversary as a gallery and store in the bohemian district of Barranco, Dédalo Arte and Artesania is considered to be one of Lima’s best shopping locations, and for good reason. On display and sold here are brilliant, and I mean brilliant, examples of contemporary Peruvian workmanship in a wide range of styles, colors, and media. Although photography inside the gallery is not typically allowed, Aracari was given special permission, as we thought that such an outstanding occasion was something worth celebrating and sharing. Dédalo’s collection of treasures can only be described as having something for everyone. From pieces that are eclectic to some that are au-natural, to those that are traditional and others that are modern, and even functional work to simply aesthetic pieces, any visitor will find inspiration for gifts perfect for loved ones and friends and of course something that speaks to their own tastes as well. Each exquisite piece is hand-selected by owner Maria Elena Fernández and featured in one of Dédalo’s many gallery rooms, which are organized by theme and designer. Every wall, floor, nook and cranny holds a hand-crafted surprise waiting to be discovered, yet with beautiful high ceilings, spacious rooms, and earthy patio, this exceptional gallery exudes a vibe that draws you in, makes you forget about your schedule and your worries, and fills your mind with a peaceful curiosity that could easily consume you for hours. Throughout the gallery, you will find a variety of exquisite jewelry, clothing and scarves, pottery and housewares, sculptures and paintings, furniture and lighting, stationary, and even bonsai trees and terrariums. Yet, despite the assortment of pieces in its collection, Dédalo masterfully organizes and displays its collection in a tasteful yet fascinating way. The next time you find yourself in Lima, be sure to take some time
Celebrating its 20th anniversary as a gallery and store in the bohemian district of Barranco, Dédalo Arte and Artesania is considered to be one of Lima’s best shopping locations, and for good reason. On display and sold here are brilliant, and I mean brilliant, examples of contemporary Peruvian workmanship in a…
How could we not feature a meal at TripAdvisor’s currently #1 ranked restaurant in Cusco on our blog? Let me take you through the meal that, although not Peruvian, left me dreaming of French baguette and foie gras for days. Le Soleil is the first restaurant offering French cuisine in Cusco, and although most of the ingredients need to be imported, the chef delivers a line-up of plates as deliciously sophisticated as one you would find in a stylish bistro in Paris. I can graciously admit that although I am obsessed with the flavorful tiradito and juicy pollo a la brasa that comprises my typical dining schedule, the need to branch out and explore the offerings of other cultures is a necessity for me. With recommendations from Marisol, who recently posted a blog article about her time spent with the world-class owner Artur Marcinkiewicz at his restaurant and hotel La Lune One Suite, my initial curiosity became a full-fledged desire to see what all of the ‘great food, ambient atmosphere, and spectacular service’ fuss was all about. I could easily describe in great detail the sumptuous wine and each of the five elegantly prepared dishes that were placed before me, but I believe that the photographs documenting my extravagant dining selection is enough to purvey just how incredible my meal was. The refined flavors of the food and wine, attentive and personalized service (from Artur himself, as well!), and the casual yet smart vibe of Le Soleil certainly lives up to the hype. I now understand why this fabulous French restaurant hidden down the cobblestone streets of Cusco has made such an impression on discerning locals and visitors alike. To include a reservation at Le Soleil or an overnight at the equally incredible La Lune One Suite during your trip to
How could we not feature a meal at TripAdvisor’s currently #1 ranked restaurant in Cusco on our blog? Let me take you through the meal that, although not Peruvian, left me dreaming of French baguette and foie gras for days. Le Soleil is the first restaurant offering French cuisine in…
Some of you may be familiar with one of our favorite hidden gems in Barranco: Las Pallas. For those of you who are not, this is one stop you should absolutely include on your list of galleries to visit when in Lima. With over 25 years of providing quality Peruvian artisans’ products from around the country, Mari Solari, proud owner and operator, continues to bring handmade crafts to her discerning clients. Last year, we had the opportunity to celebrate the gallery’s quarter of a century milestone, but we can’t help but return to this wonderfully eclectic shop with its collection of some of the finest crafts that Peru has to offer. From delicately woven textiles, to jewelry, pottery, fine carvings, and a myriad of other interesting handmade goods, the gallery is a treasure-chest of pieces representative of the diversity found in Peru. To truly understand and appreciate a gallery this unique, take the time to aimlessly wander throughout the house taking in each room and all of its pieces, and be sure to ask Mari questions about her life and work along the way. Las Pallas’ current exhibit features bird motifs from a diverse range of artisans from the jungle, the Andes, and coastal regions. Some of our favorite pieces included the intricately carved gourds and jewelry as well as the colorful array of textiles and retablos, or Latin American votive paintings. From tiny, almost overlooked garden decorations to larger carvings, the current exhibit gives “bird watching” a whole new meaning. As Las Pallas is constantly looking for new and updated work to complement its vintage collection, the annual Christmas exhibit will begin in late November and is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind decorations and gifts for your family and friends. Read more about Las Pallas on our previous
Some of you may be familiar with one of our favorite hidden gems in Barranco: Las Pallas. For those of you who are not, this is one stop you should absolutely include on your list of galleries to visit when in Lima. With over 25 years of providing quality Peruvian…
The perfect adventure travel Peru There’s nothing like sailing the Pacific seas… Several weeks ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to go sailing in Lima near the San Lorenzo Island, just off the port of Callao in Lima. With Owners Rafael and Renzo taking care of all of the guests, our sailing tour aboard the sailboat “Thaya” was a leisurely and relaxing experience. Unlike other boating trips offered to the Islands, the destination is not the highlight of this trip; rather, the act of sailing through the peaceful waters, taking in the sights of the Islands and the coastline, the cool and calming oceanic breeze, and the tasty assortment of on-board snacks and beverages amongst the company of family or friends is what makes this chartered sailing trip a worthwhile venture. The crew emphasized just how laid-back and flexible their four-hour sailing tour can be. If you prefer to catch some early-morning rays or to cast a line, the crew will gladly depart in the morning or provide all the necessary fishing equipment. Need a healthy dose of midday heat to counterbalance your cool glass of wine and the ocean breeze? Trips can leave around midday, taking advantage of the warmth of the sun. The boat is also equipped with a dingy to escort you to the beach and the little walking trails on San Lorenzo Island. Perhaps one of my favorite options, however, would be to wrap up in a warm blanket and head out right before sunset to watch the brilliant colors dance off the reflective waters until silently disappearing over the horizon. Although my trip took place during Lima’s winter months when the ocean wind has a little bite and the sun takes to hiding behind the clouds more often than not, I had a pleasant and
The perfect adventure travel Peru There’s nothing like sailing the Pacific seas… Several weeks ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to go sailing in Lima near the San Lorenzo Island, just off the port of Callao in Lima. With Owners Rafael and Renzo taking care of all of the guests,…
Of the many accommodation options in Peru’s Urubamba (Sacred) Valley, we have recently come across a very special and unique alternative being offered by our friend Mariana: KusyWasi Villa. Located near the town of Pisac, this beautiful villa allows for guests to escape the crowds and tour groups that frequent nearby hotels and enjoy the privacy and tranquility that the property has to offer. Amidst an estate with other privately owned villas and beautiful gardens, KusyWasi Villa is an ideal accommodation for families or groups looking for a private and spacious property to stay in the breathtaking Valley. "I got the idea after renting a home in the countryside in Tuscany", Mariana told us of the very elegant villa, which features an atrium complete with a fountain among other details. Guests can expect a personalized welcome upon arrival at the two-story, four bedroom villa. The house features two master bedrooms equipped with king-sized beds, cozy linens, and elegant ensuite bathrooms as well as two additional smaller bedrooms. Guests can also enjoy the comforts of home, relaxing in front of the fireplace in the living room, perhaps, or cooking their own meal in the full-sized kitchen with local Peruvian ingredients. Mariana goes out of her way to make guests' stay at KusyWasi Villa memorable and personalized. She prides herself in making the cozy villa a “home away from home” for all her guests, accommodating their requests and arranging additional services if required. Please contact us for more information about staying at KusyWasi Villa and incorporating a stay at the villa into your trip to the Urubamba Valley.
Of the many accommodation options in Peru’s Urubamba (Sacred) Valley, we have recently come across a very special and unique alternative being offered by our friend Mariana: KusyWasi Villa. Located near the town of Pisac, this beautiful villa allows for guests to escape the crowds and tour groups that frequent…
On Wednesday October 31st the San Pedro de Apóstol de Andahuaylillas church – known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” - was inaugurated after extensive work undertaken by the World Monuments Fund. This church can be visited on Cusco's Andean Baroque Route. San Pedro de Apóstol de Andahuaylillas church San Pedro de Apóstol - along with San Juan Bautista de Huaro and Virgen de la Candelaria de Canincunca - is one of three noted churches in the area to the south of Cusco that conform to the style now known as “Andean baroque.” The churches were constructed by the Jesuits in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries as a part of their efforts to convert indigenous people of the Altiplano to Christianity. They adopted traditional European styles that incorporated local materials and symbols of native plants and wildlife. The three churches form a circuit known as the “Andean Baroque Route” which is becoming increasingly popular among travellers for the investigation of this unique style of architecture. The World Monuments Fund Notable figures from WMF in Peru and the USA gathered with dignateries and local people from Cusco and Andahuaylillas to mark the work that has been undertaken. They were accompanied by a group of WMF benefactors who came from across the world for the event, who travelled with Aracari on a private, tailormade trip. WMF began working in Andahuaylillas in 2008 following the inclusion of San Pedro Apostol on their Watch. The project focused on the restoration of the main facade, choir, chapels, and a youth training program designed to promote awareness of cultural heritage. The 'Sistine Chapel of the Americas' Built at the beginning of the 17th Century, the interior of the temple is decorated with murals created by Luis Riaño, representing the path to glory and the path to
On Wednesday October 31st the San Pedro de Apóstol de Andahuaylillas church – known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas” – was inaugurated after extensive work undertaken by the World Monuments Fund. This church can be visited on Cusco’s Andean Baroque Route. San Pedro de Apóstol de Andahuaylillas church…
