Morris Murdock Escorted Tours

I think everyone has a travel bucket list—whether it’s written down or simply held in your heart. There are always those places you dream of experiencing “one day.” Last December, I was fortunate enough to check one of mine off the list with my first journey to South America, exploring Peru. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in a world of history, culture, and beauty—highlighted by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu and wandering the ancient Incan capital of Cusco.

I can honestly say this experience did not disappoint. In fact, it was even more vivid, meaningful, and spiritual than I had imagined. When you travel with an open heart, you never quite know how deeply you’ll be moved—and Peru has a way of touching you in unexpected ways. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming. While I spoke very little Spanish—and many locals spoke limited English—it somehow made the experience more memorable. We found ways to connect, laugh, and communicate, turning every interaction into a small adventure.

Traveling in December brought an added layer of magic, as we arrived during the first week of Christmas celebrations. The festive spirit was everywhere, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. And then there was the food—truly in a category all its own. Peru is known for its incredible cuisine and highly trained chefs, and it showed in every meal. From hotel dining to local eateries—and even a simple sandwich shop—every bite was fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable.

One of our favorite spontaneous moments came when we found ourselves with a few free hours before heading home. We booked a chocolate-making experience at the Choco Museum, which turned out to be both fun and delicious. Another highlight was an evening in Cusco at a local restaurant featuring a traditional song and dance performance that beautifully showcased the history and culture of Peru. The pride and passion of the performers were evident in every movement—it was truly captivating.

And then… there’s the traffic. Let’s just say that driving in Lima or Cusco is not for the faint of heart—it’s more of a spectator sport! If you ever find yourself behind the wheel, you’ll quickly discover an entirely new definition of “merging.”

Peru exceeded every expectation I had—and then some. It reminded me that the places we dream about often have even more to offer than we can imagine. All we have to do is take the journey.