We have spent a few nights in Cusco as departure points for the Inca Trail and the Amazon Rainforest, and we finally had a full day in Cusco to relax and spend time seeing the city.

The city has approx 100,000 inhabitants and its economy is mainly run off the tourists. City has a very affluent feel to it compared to some of the other cities that we have visited in South America. Shows are very Western looking and prices are more expensive for the local handicrafts than in Bolivia.

Our Hotel (Garcilaso) is just off the main square and very close to most of the shops and restaurants. The main square is very nice with two Cathedrals dominating two sides of the square.

Our guide took us to a really nice cafe (Jack's Cafe) with lots of vegeterians options that we have eaten most of our meals at. Meals cost more than in Bolivia with meals generally costing approx 50 Soles for the both of us (approx 2.82 Soles to 1 USD).

We havn't bothered going to the makrets as we've seen quite a few and they generally all have the same things.

Tony and I both enjoyed a massage organised by our tour leader. One hour for a full body massage (75 soles each) and we were both in the same room which was nice. An enjoyable way to spend an hour and so cheap compared to London prices.

I have really enjoyed visiting Cusco and spending a day relaxing.