An organised tour was recommended for travelling from Cusco to Puno so I decided to try my luck. The bus stopped at various sites along the way and included lunch. It was ok but think im a bit over Inca ruins now, although the scenery along the way through the Andean high plains was spectacular.

I have spent the last couple of days in Puno exploring Lake Titicaca. This is the largest high altitude lake in the world and straddles the border between Peru and Bolivia. I took a day tour of the islands in the lake and although no organised tour will ever feel authentic, this one was pretty good considering what was on offer. Leaving the port first thing in the morning we visited the Uros or 'floating' islands. The people here live on man made islands of reeds. The stop on one of the islands included a demonstration of how the locals build the islands, their handicrafts and what daily life entails. Yes it was organized for us but was something quite unique. A little sing song sent us on our way after you had the opportunity to by some souvenirs of course!

The next stop was Taquile island. Nothing amazing about this place except for the locals trying to preserve their way of life...even though they have embraced tourism as you would expect to help supplement their income. We had lunch here and were given some explanation about their traditional dress. I asked our tour guide if they maintained their dress because they wanted to or if it was only for tourism. He said it was their choice but I think its a bit off both. Traditional dress with trainers for some...hmmm. Took some pics with some of the local school kids who were obliging but also asked for money. Clever creatures but I was happy to give them some change of course. I laughed when they immediately ran to the shop to buy sweets.

Have been away a month now and sometimes it feels like the travelling around and trying to understand what people are saying gets a bit much but then there are moments when it all comes together and I really feel a sense of adventure and contentment. I'm still not speaking Spanish as well as I'd like but it I am understanding more (I even translated a little for an English couple on the bus back from Puno). Luckily people in general are always patient and helpful and it was really evident at the hostel I stayed at in Puno. A mother and daughter run place where the beds were perfect, the hottest shower I had so far and they greet you with a kiss. Lovely doesn´t come close to describing these people and lonely planet on this occasion got it completely right.

Well my time in Peru has come to an end and tomorrow the craziness begins in Brazil. Only a week here but felt I got what I wanted out of it. Travelling on my own for a while was nice but will be looking forward to having fun with friends again.

...I'll have a caipirinha please!!!

once again, thanks everyone for the comments and messages...keep 'em coming!!