A Stone's Throw: Lima: Throwin Down In China Town

I strolled through the characteristically chaotic streets, aiming to go nowhere in particular. Most people would probably see my slightly fast gait as a sign that I am in a hurry. In fact, its just a simple trick to avoid pick-pockets. It is far easier to notice someone who picks up speed to walk alongside you, allowing you to avoid being an easy target. No. I was really just enjoying a leisurely stroll on a fine sunny day, though one of Lima's busiest and most vibrant districts. Chinatown.

During the middle to late 1800's, Chinese immigrants steamed towards the American coastline in search of abundant jobs as well as to escape the dangerous times at home. The Opium Wars and the Taiping Rebellion (a massive war involving millions of soldiers and a man claiming to be Jesus reborn) meant that hope for the future of millions lay on the shores to the east. The opportunities vanished in the U.S. with the Chinese Exclusion act in 1882, sending all those in transit to other ports along the American coastlines... One such port was Lima, where you can now find large Chinese communities, and their incredible food here as a result.

This area, just a few blocks off the tourist rich areas of the Plaza De Armas, is one of the busiest sections of the city I have seen. I was warned against the pickpockets here by Eduardo, my Peruvian former room mate, but I faired well this day. All I had was my camera, which I used sparingly and kept firmly in my grip. The markets were an incredible display of variety, and had all the craziness you would expect of this Latin-Asian fusion neighborhood.

After my jaunt, I strolled through the better known financial district of old Lima in search of another legend. The Pisco Sour. This drink is made with the national liquor of Peru, Pisco, a mix of brandy and whiskey to my discerning tongue. The original bar that thought this national symbol up no longer exists, but the original recipe went to two others which still stand. My stop was the class Hotel Maury bar, where a finely dressed barman served me my drink in the cool, wood covered lounge. It was good. Even better, it was historic! After I finished, I thanked the barman and explained my quest. He pointed me to the Hotel Gran Bolivar in Plaza San Martin, where the other recipe ended up. I saved that one till later that night, but both of them were excellent of course.

I was feeling pretty good about my return to Lima, and I couldn't wait to really explore the city over the next few days!