Casey Thompson is a student at Kansas State University and an ISA Featured Photo Blogger. She participated on a study + service-learning program with ISA in Cusco, Peru.
As my final days approach down here in Peru,
I realize how much I learned, and the memories I made too.
Coming here is something that I will never forget,
And I hope to keep in touch with all of the friends that I met.
One of the many lessons I learned, which is something to keep in mind,
Is that Cuscanians here are all very kind.
I have received “buenos días” from many, and smiles as well,
The people here are very polite, it is easy to tell.
Lesson number two is something I learned just now,
Well, it is not really a lesson, but I ate an intestine of a cow…
However, the food here is delicious, I have been very impressed,
And I believe the cooks here are probably some of the best!
And finally, lesson number three is definitely a must,
But make sure to get on the right bus.
Many times, trying to go to the Plaza, I got on the wrong one,
And I ended up in the middle of nowhere, which trust me, was not fun.
These lessons are important that I learned here in Peru,
As well as the memories that I made on the trips we went on too:
The first was to Sacred Valley, a location I loved a lot,
Even though when we went it was very hot.
The terraces and ruins were beautiful pieces of art,
I know Sacred Valley will be a place that will always be near and dear in my heart.
Machu Picchu was next, a beautiful site to be seen,
Where we explored ruins from the Incas, their craftsmanship was very keen.
Known as the lost city, it was a trip to look back on,
You can even see the sunrise over Machu Picchu if you go at dawn.
Puno was our last trip, where we stayed with some indigenous folk,
And if you travel there, remember, it is very very cold.
Located on Lake Titicaca, the island and lake were as beautiful as could be,
With the sun shining down, it was like a sunset at the sea.
Before I leave, there are some people who deserve some gratitude.
Who got me here and helped me to keep a positive attitude.
My parents back home, especially deserve a thank you,
And also, my host mom and her daughter too.
They offered me their home and gave me a place to snooze,
Not to mention delicious meals, helpful Spanish tips, and different life views.
So thank you to my parents and my host family, for being so supportive and kind.
Because now, it is time for me to say goodbye:
Peru, I will miss you with your beautiful sites,
As well as the lights shining down on the Plaza at night.
You gave me great memories, ones I will never forget,
And I know that for sure, one hundred and ten percent!
The world awaits…discover it.