Horn Honking Indicates Taxis
In Cusco, taxis don’t have standardized colors, and many of them lack a taxi sign. If you hear a car honking behind you and slowing down, it’s likely a taxi looking for passengers. In Peru, there are no taximeters, so the fare is usually negotiated on the spot before getting into the taxi.
Buses Skipping Bus Stops
Public transportation in Cusco is operated by private companies, which means they can choose their own names. You’ll come across buses with names like “Batman,” “Zorro,” “Satélite,” or “Rápido” on the streets. Since different companies serve the same routes, some buses may not stop at the designated bus stops to overtake their competition and attract more passengers.
“Pollo” Doesn’t Mean Meat!
When dining as a vegetarian in Cusco, it’s important to clarify that you don’t eat meat (carne) or chicken (pollo). Not making this distinction might lead the waiter to suggest chicken as an alternative, as “chicken is chicken, and meat is meat.” Interestingly, fish in Peru is considered meat.
Toilet Paper Goes in the Trash
In most public restrooms, you’ll find a small trash can for disposing of toilet paper. This is because flushing the paper may cause clogging. It’s advisable to carry your own toilet paper since it’s often not provided in public restrooms.
Pedestrian Traffic Lights and Green Lights
When the pedestrian traffic light is green in Cusco, pedestrians should still be cautious of cars approaching from the left or right, as they may claim the right-of-way. If there’s heavy traffic, even with a green light, it may be difficult to cross the road.
Street Kiosks
Small kiosks on the sidewalks are a common sight in Peru. These kiosks offer a variety of items such as sweets, chips, drinks, cigarettes, and other food items. They can be found on almost every corner, filled with goodies from top to bottom.
“Cuy” (Guinea Pigs)
In Peru, what is considered a pet in many countries is a culinary delicacy. Guinea pig, known as “cuy,” is popular among Peruvians due to its high protein and low-fat content compared to other meats. It is often served whole, which might discourage some tourists.
Curious Facts about Cusco, Peru
Anticuchos
Cusco has numerous food vendors and street stalls, with anticuchos being a popular choice. Anticuchos are skewers of roasted beef heart served with potatoes and optional but readily available hot sauce.
VW Beetles
While most cars in Cusco are of Asian origin, there are also many old VW Beetles in various colors driving around. They can be spotted in almost every corner of the city.
Painted Advertising on Walls
In Cusco, advertisements for products like Coca-Cola, Inka Cola, and Claro are not displayed on posters but painted directly on walls. These painted ads often include political campaign slogans and logos, which sometimes remain on the walls even after the elections are over, lasting for several years.
No 1, 2, and 5 Cent Coins
It’s common to see prices like 9.99 or 14.95 soles in supermarkets and malls in Cusco. However, there are no 1, 2, or 5 cent coins in circulation. These coins have been discontinued, and the total amount to be paid is simply rounded up or down at the checkout.
