Arequipa, known as The White City because many of its buildings are made from volcanic rock, is surrounded by mountains dominated by a perfect cone shaped volcano. Although still at around 2,000m, its lovely and warm. Arrived ridiculously early, 5.30am, and checked into The Point. Apparently lots of people arrive very early as a couple more arrived after me.

Went for a wander in town. Got my boot fixed, visited the Monastery and went and saw Juanita, the best preserved mummy. Bless her, poor thing, she was sacrificed on the top of the mountain 500 years ago as there had been lots of volcanic and earthquake activity and the Incas thought that the gods need pleasing. She was only about 13 poor girl! No pictures unfortunately, everything was in darkened rooms and our cameras were all confiscated!

I stayed in Arequipa for 3 days, mainly just relaxing and recovering from Cuzco. The Point had a bar plus loads of games, giant jenga, pool table, table tennis etc etc so pretty sociable. Watched lots of movies too. Met lots of people of course as well!

Left early on Sunday morning for Tacna and then took a shared taxi over the border into Chile. The difference each side was interesting. The Peruvian police decided to search our bags - with my top opening rucksack that was packed extremely carefully!!! Luckily he only took my washbag out and then left me to try and close it all back up again! The Chilean side had an x-ray machine, much easier!

Now in Arica on the edge of the desert but by the sea. Heading to the beach to relax today (i´m sure i´ll get bored after a couple of hours, give me mountains any day!!) and then south to San Pedro on the night bus tonight. Staying in a crazy HI hostel with a completely mental owner. He´s hilarious and keeps giving us free drinks - should never complain about that! Great place and it should be for $10 a night, the most i´ve paid for a room my whole trip!!

Take care ya´ll xxxx