In May of 2012, Traveler magazine published Tian Ye’s travelogue about Peru.According to him, there’s no better way of getting to know the place than to sit down and chat to the locals over a cup of coca tea. Geographically speaking, Peru is an extremely complex place, with particular geographical situation determining the lifestyles and cultural practices of its diverse population. This complexity is without doubt at the root of why many of Peru’s problems are so difficult to solve.

“Before setting off, I read all I could about Peru from the few available books on this South American country. It was the people I met during my month of travels that really allowed to understand the place though. From the film director I came across in a monastery, to the famous chef intent on discovering Peru’s true flavor; from the minerson hunger strike in a town square, to the herbal medicine doctor working in the rain forest; and then there were all of those third generation Chinese immigrants who only speak Spanish and yet still worship Gong Guan… From all of these people – on their plateaus and arid plains, and in hostel bars and Chinese restaurants – I learnt all I know about Peru over cup after cup of coca tea.”

First cup:Alpaca, bronze, China, and the “Four Perus” – the four different ways of life found in Peru’s four different geographies.

Second cup: Juanita and Santa Ana – the nature of the relationship between humans and the gods is a question that recurs again and again in Peruvian history.

Third cup: The dance of the mixed race sailors – the whole of Peruvian history as seen in one performance.

Fourth cup: The Chinese in Peru – an immigration story of blood, sweat and tears

Fifth cup: Professional sorcerers – the people at the heart of ancient Peruvian civilization.

Sixth cup: The mix and match of Peruvian cuisine - Piranha +guinea pig + alpaca + seafood, served withlocally grown chilies + palm fruit + Andean millet + a thousand kinds of potato.

Seventh cup: Sour Pisco - if abar, hostel or restaurant won’t serve it, it’s not a worthy establishment!.

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A true vagabond, Tian Ye has been to 30 to 40 countries and speaks a good few languages. He’s made TV programs and radio broadcasts, and chased polar bears and penguins at their respective poles!

Traveler Magazine