Cuencan Life

With almost 500,000 people, Cuenca is a busy city. There is a constant flow of people moving in every direction along the cobblestone streets and sidewalks. Many women choose to wear high heels when walking, which, I've decided, must be a talent passed down through the generations. Simply walking in Keen's without tripping in the random dips and grooves that many of the streets have is hard enough, let alone in heels. (Side note: Keen's are AWESOME. I'm incredibly happy with mine and feel they were most certainly worth the investment.)

As for the weather, it's almost always beautiful. It's usually in the upper 60's or lower 70's so it's incredibly easy to pick out the day's clothes. It does rain on occasion, but it doesn't last long and it usually isn't very much. While many people carry an umbrella, most use it to block out the sun, which, at about 2350 meters above sea level, is a bit intense, to say the least.

Looking at the city

A church on my walk to school.

A street in Cuenca





 

One dish that's considered a delicacy here is called cuy, or guinea pig. A few of my friends and I went out on Tuesday to try this favorite dish among Ecuadorians. If you're a vegetarian or don't like to see pictures of dead animals, stop reading here. You've been warned. :)

 

After catching the guinea pig, it's roasted over a grill until it's crispy and dark.

Cuy cooking.

 

Cuy ready to eat!

 

After cooking, cuy is the cut up into smaller pieces so it's easier to eat. I had the portion that included a foot. Fun fact: a lot of meat can be found when you scoop it out of the leg. :) Cuy doesn't have a lot of meat on it and is pretty greasy. Nonetheless, it's actually decent and it's definitely worth trying, especially if you find yourself in Ecuador.

 





A portion of cuy and some awesome Chilean merlot.