Cuzco Costello: NYE in the Plaza de Armas

Last night was wonderful. My traveling alone anxieties had a hold on me, until I decided to buck up like Carrie Bradshaw in Paris. Bought the bottle of champagne at San Pedro yesterday afternoon, then went to the roof to open it around 8. I absolutely could not get the bottle open. So, lo and behold, the construction workers and hostel owners were on the roof as well and opened it for me. We all shared the bottle and talked about NYE. When I told them I bought the champagne at San Pedro, one commented, "She's more Cusquenan than you!" ... which made me inexplicably happy.

Went to the Plaza de Armas, where 1000's of people gathered to ring in the new year. A cumbia band played familiar songs (well, familiar to Peruvians), and I joined forces with 3 Australians, a Columbian, and a Mexican for the duration of the night. Lots of laughs, loud music, dancing, and a good few Cusquenanas, and it was midnight. We were shocked to find the fireworks begin a full 10 minutes before midnight, but they continued on well past midnight. Rain storm struck at 12:30, which is when I went back to my hostel to "get my jacket," which really meant, "go to bed."

Much to my dismay, either there was no yellow undie run this year, or I couldn't see it from my place in the plaza. I did, however, snag a few good photos & videos of the celebrations.