When we arrived in Peru we were told that there was a huelga. That means a labour Strike. What we really found was a parada total which means a complete shut down of the normal activities of the country and the people were in full rebelion. In this case it was over the increase in the cost of gasoline and the doubling of transportation costs.
When we got to Cusco, flying up over the high Andes mountains, We found that the rebelion was in full swing. The people had filled the streets with rocks so that it was not possible to drive on them. We had to carry our bags and walk from the airport into town. It was a real mess and people were angry and fighting each other and especialy against th Peruvian Government forces. They had also torn up the railroad tracks so we could not get to Machupichu.
We got to a hotel and with luck, our rooms were still available. During the night were could hear the fighting and about 3:oo am truck loads of Peruvian soldiers arrived and then the fighting really got bad. This continued into the nex day.
We found a guide to help us the next day and did get out around the edges of the city of Cuzco and saw some of the interesting things there. Early the next morning We got up early and carried our bags back to the airport. Getting on the only airplane that was there is another story, but we got tickets for ourselves and the Faust family. The last picture shows Brother Faust and some of his family as they were arriving at the airport carrying the own bags.
Just been thinking back and thought you might be interested in seeing Cuszco more than 30 years ago and some of you remembering the trip.
2 comments:
These are great pictures, Dad. I enjoyed reading about your escapade (!) and seeing what you and mom and the kids got to see 30 years ago or more. What an adventure. Now as I see it in photos, I wish I could have been on the adventure with you! What a brown place, very different culture, too. The kids are all skinny and little - your kids, I mean! Keep us posted, love, Nat
Grandpa, I'm glad that I am able to read about what you are doing, and have done. It is great to be able to get to know you better through you experiences. We love you, and miss having you close.
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