The sierra region of Peru was devastatingly awash in severe rain for the past few months-- so drastic was the precipitation that it destroyed homes, bridges and trains. After tourists were stranded in Machu Picchu during one of the downpours, the site was closed for two months. It just reopened on April 1st (not kidding) and the entire region heaved in relief. As Cusco and its majestic surroundings are highly dependent on tourism-- and Machu Picchu both literally and figuratively constitutes the peak of many vacations in the area-- the lull in visitors was a large blow. The actress Susan Sarandon was present for the grand opening, though the receptionist in the hotel she was supposedly staying denied it when I asked him (most politely).
But behind the front of happy Machu Picchu-bound tourists, much destruction remains unattended to. Apparently, more than a 1000 people who lost their homes in mudslides still haven't recovered a roof. According to a tour guide from the affected valley, "the government prefers to help Chile than us." In any case, there is much visible rubble-- as well as wheelbarrows zipping around the valley.
But behind the front of happy Machu Picchu-bound tourists, much destruction remains unattended to. Apparently, more than a 1000 people who lost their homes in mudslides still haven't recovered a roof. According to a tour guide from the affected valley, "the government prefers to help Chile than help us." In any case, there is much visible rubble-- as well as wheelbarrows zipping around tending to said rubble.
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