Worst Traffic in the World?

A tourist bus in the souk.

I went to Egypt to see the treasured outpost of the Roman Empire. But, I also went because I wanted to see the traffic. Is that weird? Yes, and thank you. I had heard people say that the traffic in Cairo is the worst in the world. I have been in LA, Dhaka, Lima, Bogota, New Delhi, and NY traffic. Of all those places, I still vote that Dhaka has the worst traffic. Could Cairo take the crown?

Blocks of ice for sale blocking the Cairo traffic.

Yes, it can. The reason is that the traffic in Cairo is lethal. Cairo is much bigger than Dhaka and there are many roads where one can gain a great amount of speed, thus making traffic accidents more likely to be lethal.

A pick up point in front of the mosque. It was a calm day.

So, I would have to agree that Cairo has the worst traffic, but Dhaka has possibly the most interesting? In Dhaka one saw all kinds of things in traffic, from half a million rickshaws to elephants.

M’s Adventures Love Letter to Peru Movie Trailer

As I mentioned in a previous blog posting, we are all content creators now. I started the M’s Adventures blog/website when I moved to Bangladesh in 2011 (you can read one of my early blog postings here), and since then, I’ve created a book for each country I’ve lived in. As I will soon depart Peru, I was looking through photos to put together my book. The previous books have been published on Lulu.

But, this time, as I’m learning how to make movies on iMovie, I thought I’d make a “videobook” or moving picture book, a love letter to Peru. I may also make a paper book, but I’ll see how I feel when I’ve edited 8,000 photos and taught myself more iMovie. For now, here’s a film trailer so you can see what how it’s going. Don’t worry, the content of the body of the show will be less dramatic (film production really teaches one how much music changes the mood of a piece).

Here is the video trailer for “M’s Adventures in Peru: A Love Letter”

Or if you prefer to watch it on my YouTube channel, here is the link.

 

Delivery in Lima in the Time of COVID – the List

IMG_5275To make it easier to hunt for those who cannot access Google Docs, here is the list of delivery places in Lima as of May 9, 2020. As always the Google doc is updated daily. This post is “stuck” to the top of the blog as a featured posting and can also be found in the pages sections (I changed the template of the blog — gosh, it’s been what five years or so since I changed my WordPress template — so I thought it was time. Hopefully it’s easier for folks to read some of my previous articles). I have also added the COVID delivery list as a PDF for those who like that style of info: FoodGroceryDeliveryLima-COVID – FoodGroceryDeliveryLima-COVID.

To make it fit on this page, I have deleted the category and location columns. 

NameTypePhone – from PE cellEmail-websiteNotes
Cinthia Adrianzenmasks, gloves, sanitizer987 982 659 verified
Aerospacialmasks943 739 603  
Ainhoasanitizer gel932 561 705  
Farmacia Queensmedication, drugs, sanitary items01 264 3444www.farmaciaqueen.com.pe 
Farmacia Universalmedication, drugs, sanitary items01 417-1800, 982 700 080www.farmaciauniversal.com 
Inkafarmamedication, drugs, sanitary items01 314-2020www.inkafarma.pe 
Mi Farmamedication, drugs, sanitary items01 642-9398, 938 882 441www.farmalisto.com.pe 
Boticas MedFarma Saludmedication, drugs, sanitary items922 398 888www.boticasmedfarmasalud.negocio.site, FB 
Barthel Bakerybread, sandwiches999 705 563 verified, very busy
Capo de Pastapasta and desserts923 015 329 verified
El Cacaotalchocolate937 595 812 verified
Mo Bistromeals986 006 575  
?Asian fusion?987 794 607  
Nutri Store Confiterianuts956 784 365  
Audsy Cateringmeals, empanadas, sandwiches992 760 984eaudsy@yahoo.comverified, 48 hr pre-order
El Fruterofruit juice pulp, fruit etc.987 643 067, 960 778 541 verified
Arandanos del Huertofruit products934 993 717  
Cheese Corner Perucheese936 686 315 verified, min S/200, S/12 fee, pay via bank transfer, 48 hr preorder
Selectos Ibericoscharcuterie939 739 982  
Pizza al Volo (Brian Mollison)pizza984 714 955 verified
Le P’tite Francebread01 342 1565  
Naduhealth food and meals960 765 259  
Don ItaloItalian998 128 448  
Pastas Pinapasta, lasagne, ravioli941 378 379pedidos@pastaspina.com.peverified
Marciano Veganovegan996 282 852  
La Cacerola Gourmetcooked chicken meat920 716 283  
Dona Marthaveggie spirals, fruit, veg914 997 971  
La Principalpasta, desserts995 561 655  
Cafe Monrealcoffee983 277 479www.cafemonreal.com 
Faustaquiche, aji de gallina, desserts, etc.989 496 359  
Naturally Divinespiced oils986 801 082  
Huachanotamal, cheese, pickles, beans, fruit, etc.987 142 858 pay via bank transfer
Glacialwater924 812 105  
Mercabastofruit and vegetables942 000 035  
Osso Carniceriameat01 469 7438, 922 019 328, La Molina +51 987 967 210San Isidro +51 922 019 328www.osso.peWed-Sun 9AM-12noon, S/15 fee
Don Titomeat949 722 371  
Granja del Vallequail eggs996 399 970 100 for S/10
Carniceria Pal Diariomeat981 323 389, 998 264 075www.paldiario.com.peno cash. Min S/100
Serranomeat994 537 137, 965 326 525  
San Fernandochicken and turkey01 219 5600, ext. Surco: 5002, Miraflores, San Isidro, 5003, Barranco 5004, M-S, 9AM-2PM
BioFeriafruit and vegetables999 104 963  
Pescoseafood914 651 233  
Kasani Fishseafood925 941 225  
Surquillofruit and vegetables990 123 602 minimum 20 soles
Mercampofruit and vegetables928 624 119 no cash
La Sanahoriahealth foodBarranco: 913 733 677, Surco: 913 733 367, San Isidro: 913 733 668  
AJEwater, sportade, juice pulp980 493 562, 932 107 925, 993 207 058  
Gallinas Libreseggs – cage free993 477 758 minimum 100 eggs!
Peru Pacificseafood946 541 722, 01 717 9506inbox on Facebook 
Naturally Divinehealth food – coconut oil, flour, jojoba, etc.986 801 082  
Sanuahealth food message on Instagram 
Karin Eco Fishfish from an artisanal fisher woman987 104 168 minimum three bags, pay via BCP, BBVA, and Yape
Amaru Superfoodsdried fruit, stevia, cacao, etc.940 851 444  
Palacio del Pastapasta palaciodelpasta.mitienda.pe 
Jordi Prime Grillmeat and frozen fries955 373 365  
La Parritecameat, pickles, wine, charcoal01 446 2278, 998 918 822www.parriteca.com, Facebook 
Cafe Ecologicocoffee992 687 398  
Agricola Organicosfruit and vegetables992 845 300  
Puku Pukucoffee @nanayperu on Instagram 
Dumancheese999 502 049  
Valle del Rio Chillonfruit and vegetables954 122 645, 945 303 096  
U of Agraria La Molinafruit and vegetables999 308 582  
Agroferias Campesinasfruit and vegetables, seafood delivery@agroferias.com 
Universidad Nacional Agrariafruit, veg, meat, dairy948-022-028 5 day pre-order
Volcan de Frutasfruit and vegetables994 304 459  
Verduleria Verafruit and vegetables995 738 887  
Carniceria Sumas Aychameat999 694 971  
Donna y Maribelchicken952 508 545 verified
De Mercado Verduras y frutasfruit and vegetables993 372 039  
Fresh Martonline store934 109 650www.freshmart.pe 
Pescaderia Rositafish980 758 562  
Food Cofruit and vegetables914 395 793, 942 369 084pedidos@foodco.peVerified
Expat Shoplentils, etc. www.expatshop.peAviv Hemant
Ivan Pugaseafood974 531 053 Verified
Avícola Gloriacorn fed eggs994-113-514 Tues and Wed
Avinkachicken01 615-3770 / 965-396-725avinka.riqra.comOrder 9 – 2
Del Mercadogroceries993-372-039  
Don Torcuatogroceries962-962-952don_torcuato3@hotmail.com 
Franvivefruit and vegetables965-394-546 / 998-134-143 minimum S/100
Fruta al Díafruit www.frutaldia.com.pe 
Lima Orgánicaorganic951-125-106pedidos@limaorganica.pe / www.limaorganica.pe. 
Mercadilloorganic www.mercadillo.pe. 
Nanaygroceries-eggs-vegan Fb: nanaype / Ig: nanayperu. 
Organic Expressorganic910-901-524  
Sana Saludable y Naturalorganic991-072-866@sana_synperu.T, Th, F delivery
Sprout Housesprouts936-605-482@sprout.house.pe.Sat and Sun only. S/30 minimum
Todo Frescofruit and vegetables981-594-764 M-S, S/100 minimum
Tu Chacritagroceries www.tuchacrita.pe. 
Tu Mercadogroceries www.tumercadoperu.com 
Vacas Felicesdairy and organic www.vacasfelices.com 
Zu Canastagroceries www.zucanasta.comverified, excellent veggies, no new clients
Verduras Erickfruit, veg, cleaning products993 689 003 One day pre-order, 50 sol minimum
Bodega Thiaguitofruit and vegetables998 911 199  
Tienda Valentinagroceries01 372 9349  
Bodega Edithgroceries01 275 0555  
Del Eden de Av. Primaveragroceries934 572 804 cash or yape
Andean Pacific Foodsseafood966 555 459 verified
Bodega Barrancogroceries01 477 9149  
La Calandriagroceries941-368-345www.facebook.com/lacalandriabarranco 
D’Manu Gourmetpreserves and sauces98-374-296@dmanugourmet.Thu-Sat delivery
Misha Rastrerakefir, kombucha, eco personal hygiene924-713-062www.facebook.com/misharastrera / www.misharastrera.com.Delivery los martes y viernes de 10:00 a 16:00 horas
Punto Orgánicoorganic fruit, veg, and products989-043-427.www.puntoorganico.com24 hrs notice for orders
Thaniyayfruit butters, keto958-344-860@thaniyayperu.8 soles for delivery
Bodega Arakakigroceries01 445-6078. zona Enrique Palacios street
Bodega El Paisagroceries926-680-450. Zona Tomás Marsano cuadra 17
Bodega Elizabethgroceries999-927-459 / 435-3709  
Bodega Kunimongroceries01 253-6146 Zona Juan G. Moore
Bodega Tantaleángroceries01 242-2019.  
Bodega Edgardgroceries996-350-584. Zona Av. Angamos Oeste con Av. Comandante Espinar
Cosecha2GOfruit and vegetables979-281-980  
Frutería Robert, Mercado de Santa Cruzfruit and vegetables983-467-985  
Frutero Javier de Mercado Mendiburufruit and vegetables956-784-365  
Jet Marketgroceries937-264-756 / 934-890-462 8:30am to 5pm
Manuel Mercado Mendiburumeat992-694-971  
Punto Gourmetgroceries01 273-8264 Zona Simón Salguero. Hacen reparto solo por las mañanas.
Quillari Marketgroceries962-284-873 Zona Mendiburu
Thika Thanigroceries987-448-914  
Tienda Minimarketgroceries01 241-5999 Zona Parque Tradiciones
Bodega 3B Marketgroceries01 396-1374 Zona Calle Las Rosas, La Molina Vieja
Bodega Rinconada del Lagogroceries01 368-2406  
La Esquina. Zona Las Lagunas: Pedidos: 479-0842.groceries01 479-0842 Zona Las Lagunas
Market Donnagroceries01 479-2358  
Todo Frescogroceries981-594-764 Mon-Sat. S/100 minimum. Fee S/ 5 y S/ 10
Sra Enedina de la Bío Feria de La Molinachicken, eggs, fruit, veg958-982-488  
Willi Marketgroceries01 368-1768 / 01 479-1037 / 01 364-5234 / 01 364-5231 Zona El Sol de La Molina
Bazar Luisagroceries949-638-931 Zona Pezet
Bodega Arakakigroceries01 241-6882 Zona Belén 265
Bodega Sebasgroceries01 422-3109 / 997-767-504 Zona cuadra 39 Av. Petit Thouars
Jet Marketgroceries937-264-756 8-5:30. Zonas Los Laureles, Canaval y Moreyra 305, Juan de Arona 777
La Gorditagroceries01 221-8378 / 01 440-6108 Zona Choquehuanca, El Olivar
Bodega Yulligroceries01 224-4218 Zona San Borja Norte
Bodega Ojedagroceries01 358-7990 Zona Las Artes Norte
Bodega Óscarmeat, fruit, veg986-213-330 One day pre-order
Bodega Elizabethgroceries999-927-459 / 01 435-3709 Zona San Luis
Bodega Erickgroceries993-689-003  
Bodega Flores Génesisgroceries989-496-322  
Frutería Lizfruit997-921-248  
Market Comercial Bayletigroceries960-991-919.  
Tienda Silviagroceries902-065-327  
Tu Caseritogroceries920-716-524 / 995-798-600  
Bodega Elizabethgroceries999-927-459 / 01 435-3709  
Bodega Jhomargroceries967-703-415 Solo en Surco por Ricardo Palma y Roca y Boloña
Minimarket Paquitagroceries01 344-3339 / 01 344-4964 / 01 344-3232  
Señor Víctor del Mercado de Surcogroceries998-380-078  
Super Pet Perupet food Instagram @superpet_pe 
Groomerspet foodMiraflores: 01 715 5454, San Borja: 01 713 0707  
Rambala Barfpet food970 356 974  
Aromapanbread925 532 917  
Bodega Tres Chanchitosgroceries01 368-4564, 01 479-2965, 943 530 897  
Bodega Isabelitagroceries991 779 911, 995 859 557 zona santa catalina
Bodega El Brothergroceries01 226-1478  
Balernomeat949 444 234, 983 514 059facebook.com/BalernoPeru 
Buen Fuegomeat982 592 384  
Del Gordo – Carnes Premiummeat920 252 114inbox on Facebook 
La Charcuteria de Limameat998 108 452www.lacharcuteriadelima.com48hr preorder, min S/100, delivery S/15
Meat Festmeat986 832 861www.meatfest.pe, FBUSDA connection
Prime Meatsmeat980 712 396Facebook 
Animal Revolution Perupet food01 692 6024Facebookverified
Full Familypet food970 786 523, 01 304 0585Facebookverified
Rambala Barfpet food970 356 974 verified
Cerdenadeli, cheese, etc.913 048 042delivery@ti.cay.com, www.cerdenaembutidos.com 
Quesos Lait’s Tacnenodeli, cheese, etc.993 570 160 S/30 min
Zimmermanndeli, cheese, etc.998 141 731www.embutidoszimmermann.com 
Bayas Peruanasfruit and vegetables970 947 621@bayasperuanasOnly Mon, Wed, S/10 fee
Canasta Food Cofruit and vegetables914 395 793, 942 369 084  
Del Mercadofruit and vegetables993 372 039  
El Chasquipefruit and vegetables924 614 153, 936 281 426 24 hr preorder
Organic Foodfruit and vegetables982 033 898, 997 977 277  
Rideliveryfruit and vegetables943 642 587FB 
Verduleria Petty (Mercado El Eden)fruit and vegetables965 425 493  
La Verduleriafruit and vegetables917 344 140  
Los Castilla Marketminimarket924 899 591  
Market Comercial Bayletiminimarket960 991 919  
Market Donnaminimarket01 479 2358  
Tienda Minimarket eUsminimarket01 241-5999 zona Parque Tradiciones
Flora y Faunaorganic986 915 313, 934 599 647, 940 414 018  
ICI Lab Gourmetbread998 103 181  
Masana Panaderia Artesanal & Saludablebread993 857 210  
Panaderia Ecologica Alemana Los 7 Enanosbread915 116 657  
La Morabread940 230 042, 994 318 908, 914 891 313, 945 775 493 Min S/30, S/10 fee, 48 hr preorder
Eco Fishseafood987 104 168  
Kalkalseafood998 284 655 depends on catch of the day
Osthias Pescados y Mariscosseafood943 597 369 free delivery if over S/70
Pescoseafood914 651 233  
Avicola Gloriaeggs, corn fed994 113 514 Tue and Wed only
Avicola Hermanas Tapiachicken, turkey, duck, veg, meat01 273 0430, 947 230 966 Min S/50
La Gallinita de Corraleggs, meat, poultry, pork994 034 030, 991 898 554  
Senora Enedina (de la Bio Feria La Molinachicken, eggs, fruit, veg958 982 488  
Porthos Prime Foodribs955 479 881  
Manuel Casssanovaoyster mushrooms993 993 689 verified, S/15 kilo
Laivedairy01 0800 15248, 914 164 000  
Rebcca Blueberryberries, fruit911 101 155 verified
Olivamolive oil982 055 881  
Masas Salvajebread933 790 881 verified
FloralPcheese999 192 602  
Mercado de Santa Cruzfruit and vegetables, meat, chicken, fish01 422-9045, 932 393 390  
Fruteria Felifruit and vegetables987 497 809 fee outside Lobaton area
Morning Coffeecoffee987 540 673  
Lait’scheese, butter, dulce de leche993 570 160 minimum S/30
Bioimex Peruseafood936 741 959  
InmersoBBQ971 285 608inmersoperu@gmail.com 
Fressongroceries984 299 277  
Flavor Fusion Detox y Padmaessentials952 758 625  
PesCoseafood – fresh caught914 651 233  
Rikcharicoffee999 582 587  
Lacteos Conga Perudairy949 714 483  
Piscislake trout989 211 465@piscis_peverified, M-F, 8-3
La RosettabakeryLa Molina: 936 327 010, Miraflores: 993 194 547  
D’Onofriaice creamSurco: 930 691 159, San Miguel 999 220 693, San Borja 999 604 185, San Isidro/Miraflores: 977 198 425, Surquillo 991 980 588  
Amarellymasks933 010 725  
Venevamasks996 173 772  
Ecocampoeggs@ Instagram  
Meche Correamasks pedidosmechecorrea@gmail.com 
Impotacions GMVrubbing alcohol992 474 307, 981 259 788 only bulk to Lima
Cafe del Fundocoffee @cafedelfundo.pe 
Bloom Tostadorescoffee @bloom.tostadores 
Neira Cafe Labcoffee @neiracafelab 
Cappuccetto Perucoffee @cappuccettoperu 
Narela Cafecoffee @narelacafe 
Cafe Maldonadocoffee @cafemaldonado 
Muju Coffee Roasterscoffee @muju_coffee_roasters 
Dark Wing Coffeecoffee @darkwingcoffee 
Finca Tastacoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Master Coffeecoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Cafe Negrocoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Pueblo Coffeecoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Coffee Hunters Perucoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Cafe Compadrecoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Finca Don Salazarcoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Don Guto Cafecoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Fundo Santa Teresitacoffee Inbox on Instagram 
NAmasks, alcohol, gloves964 303 258  
Casa Gourmetbakery998 163 785, 981 022 572, 998 174 296  
Frosacseafood987 790 708  
Corporaction Lichamasks Inbox on Instagram 
Ecologic Perufruit and veg @ecologic_peru 
Dual Hogarcleaning products Inbox on Instagram 
Limpieza Es Facilcleaning products Inbox on Instagram 
La America Cafebakery Inbox on Instagram 
Pa’ Tu Casafruit and veg983 596 245, 983 527 051  
La Molina Marketgroceries950 281 160  
Enrique Tomas Peruproscuitto992 466 006  
?eggs943 688 738  
Boticas Santa Fepharmacy980 896 301  
Cafeteinacoffee924 886 011  
Del Fundo (Manina Carmona)mandarins, palta997 551 205  
Pratolacoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Houssy Perumouthwash998 633 524  
Vimaantbuilding cleaning Inbox on Instagram 
Cafe Link Perucoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Go Petpet food944 445 467  
Qamir Fruitfruit and veg941 382 000, 922 386 721  
Mi Bodeguita 231groceries inbox on facebookverified
Maranatha Fishseafood942 370 042  
La Vaca Locasteak998 371 342  
Lakshmi Casa Organicaorganic   
Samacaorganic   
Naturlandiatofu, beans, etc.   
Ande Barorganic   
Pecaditos Integralesorganic991 970 806  
Pesco Pescaderiafish914 651 233  
Amazona Chocolateschocolate944 952 227  
Mascarilla Eirlmasks inbox on Instagram 
Delivery San Borjagroceries950 281 160  
Procesos Industriales GMVrubbing alcohol992 474 307, 981 259 788  
Abbas Dellyfruit and veg988 184 902  
Ventas de Verduras y Frutasfruit and veg Inbox on Instagram 
Montreal Bagelbagels968 968 876  
Jordimeat946 483 610, 994 269 020ventas1.jordi@gmail.com 
Beans Fruit Drybeans, fruit987 823 444  
La Choza Nautica Brenafruit and veg936 663 475  
Winebox.Pewine winebox.peverified!!
Nipa Korthari IndianIndian food993 523 921 verified
Textiles Espinozamasks948 079 240 verified
CBFmasks990 001 146  
Sercomedmasks920 259 867, 966 423 059  
Mercado 365 Perufruit and veg infomercardo365@gmail.com 
Scrapyartmasks, soap, gloves, alcohol982 878 609  
Feel Organicmasks inbox o Instagram 
El Huerto Agroecologicofruit and veg999 308 582huerto01@lamolina.edu.pe 
Project Pietamasks Inbox on Instagram 
RecytexmasksDaniel 991 204 073, Rosalita 991 200 619dguerra@ctrycytec.com, rcoastales@ctrecytex.com 
Rico Pet Sacpet food900 952 263  
Finexmasks9335 599 399  
Piruw Naturalhoney Inbox on Instagram 
Palta Fuerte Organicaavocado955 093 368  
Champinoes Frescosmushrooms999 094 111  
Casa Blanca Homemasks923 100 565  
Verde Purofruit and veg centraldepedidos@vermisac.com 
LK Importacionesmasks KN95981 521 564  
Alcohol 96 Perurubbing alcohol933 901 540  
Fausta Mila Cafecoffee989 176 739  
Selectos Ibericosbakery939 739 892  
Tealistotulistagroceries972 039 516  
Crea Pais Perumasks998 785 557creapais@hotmail.com 
Andean Bitesgluten free, vegetarian snacks913 034 105  
Invitalofruit and veg978 365 482, 995 820 164 Less then 24 hrs for delivery!
La Huerta Organicafruit and veg Inbox on Instagram 
Cappucino Cuscocoffee Inbox on Instagram 
Natural Homepet food935 219 644  
Pan de la Cholabakery992 126 980 verified
Anticapizza951 904 870  
San Fernandopoultry960 587 331  
Organica Carbon de Cococharcoal981 472 936  
Bodeboca Bruzzolasagna, platters, Italian999 662 477  
Fruta Verdura Deliveryfruit and veg991 690 814  
Rayito Print Perumasks966 635 440, 923 176 021  
Conciencachocolate970 306 585 verified
Gina Moraleswine948 029 719 verified
La Terrazalomo saltado, etc.942 895 461 24 hour pre-order
La Bodegawine, beer, pisco, groceries912 002 407, 981 293 010  
Gate Gourmetgroceries www.gateperu.com 
Proflimsaindustrial cleaning989 538 821  
Carbon Ecologicocharcoal981 472 936  
La Casita Honey  @lacasitahoney 
Teas Organicocoffee923 470 649  
Mattonimeals924 066 643administracion@mattoni.com.pe, IG, FBmin S/50, delivery fee
Servi Casa Perubakery @ Instagram 
Bandrabread, fruit, veg972 593 603, 958 062 733frankbimjani@bandra.pemin S/50
Lomo de Resmeat960 703 092, 979 257 175 verified! minimum purchase
Panicomiobread967 338 429 verified!!
Sorayachicken, fruit, veg987 030 561  
Maria Alejandrawine999 213 314 verified
Cymed Medicalmasks inbox on Instagram 
165Logisticsmasks981 510 662, 933 523 369ventas@165logistics 
Green Freshfruit and veg inbox on Instagram 
Hong Kong MarketAsian specialities inbox on Instagram – via platanitos 
Taylor Briomontefruit and veg950 581 082inbox on Instagram 
Filo Carnesmeat953 723 353  
Orquidea Chocolatechocolate947 351 564, 951 492 572inbox on IG and FB 
Oriente FoodVenezuelan tequenos inbox on IG 
Enriquechickens and eggs980 781 057  
La Fidelia 924 575 008store.lafidelia.pe, inbox on IG and FB 
Claudia Palacioscakes994 272 358  
Crunch It Perugranola, nuts, dried fruit947 080 729  
Caseritagroceries976 338 870  
Sumaqchafruit and veg998 337 070 min S/50, fee S/5, delivery 3-5 pm
Verde Natural Marketorganic942 162 596  
Days Perugloves inbox on IG, daysperu.com 
Quimachi Snacks  inbox on IG 
Health Care Shop PEsanitizer gel inbox on IG 
Interfoods TSmeat inbox on IG 
Mueble VMpurified water system931 900 438inbox on IG 
La Cabrita Quesocheese987 530 794lacabritaproductos@gmail.com, lacabrita_09@yahoo.es, on FB @lacabritaquesosdecabra 
La Fabrica – Mobile Pizzapizza980 735 264  
Unknownmasks940 205 120, 997 296 786  
Pharmivetpet pharmacy www.pharmivet.pe 
Alexandra Dammertmasks998 106 183 verified
La SalteneriaBolivian empanadas/saltenas997 108 496 verified
Chacra Verdefruit and veg Inbox on Instagram 
Panicorp Bakerybread Inbox on Instagram 
Magna Premiumcharcoal Inbox on Instagram 
Duman Quesosdairy, and pizza999 502 049Inbox on Facebook 
Felines Swimwear Perumasks946 622 285Inbox on FB and IG 
Wall Marketgroceries, drinks994 845 699  
Celin Aylin, La Fruteriafruit and veg – frozen983 550 063  
Rebo Foodsfruit and veg989 112 286, 992 962 748  
Bon Beefmeals www.bonbeef.com, inbox on FB 
Bodega Carelgroceries, drinks973 797 373, 920 419 796  
El Parrillon de Pablo ProfumoUruguayan beef998 197 619www.elparrillon.com 
La Bondiola Sangucheriasandwiches Inbox on IG 
D’Tinto & Burgersburger meat946 409 789, 987 268 430Inbox on IG 
El Pan de la Cholabread, flour993 126 980www.elpandelachola.comverified
Barra Alquimiacake980 577 430 verified
El Fruterofrozen fruit960 778 541, 941 526 338, 941 676 601, 987 643 067pedidos1@elfrutero.pe 
Fresh Food Limafruit and veg997 889 121, 993 751 251Facebook 
Come Cerdo Come Sanopork inbox on IG and FB 
Grupo AngloMedmasks928 003 285ventas@grupoanglomed.com 
Amkha Marketfruit and veg inbox on Instagram 
Trigalbakery and bakery supplies997 466 231, 994 328 461 S/50 min, S/10 fee
El Granero de Lima 942 160 182  
The Pharmacy Labhealthy food992 761 894inbox on Instagram 
Salud 360masks972 207 666inbox on Instagram 
Limpia Como Mamadeep cleaning inbox on Instagram and Facebook 
Protector Facialplastic face masks992 777 067  
Nina and Sisatransportation services959 021 686  
Delivery Segurotransportation services947 314 821  
El Peque DLCpork956 739 379  
El Huerto Ecomarketgroceries997 716 904  
Aromas del ValleCoffee955-130-909www.aromasdelvalle.com, contacto@aromasdelvalle.com 
Alfogo Angusmeat997-152-521  
Berries del Peruberries01 448-1414pedidos@berriesdelperu.com, on Facebook 
Market Circologroceries978-371-872 24 hr preorder, transport fee
Sr. Choque en el Mercado de Huirachochachicken995-213-888  
Sr. Víctor en el Mercado de Huirachochachicken931-029-239  
Sra. Roxana en el Mercado de Huirachochafruit and veg998-116-505  
Frutería Felifruit and veg987-497-809  
Bodega Teresadried fruit985-895-894  
Ally Embutidos Saludablesgroceries922-337-858  
Avícola Poolchicken and eggs984-764-999 free delivery, one day pre-order
Avícola Tonychicken and eggs955-172-816  
Café A Markethamburger, bacon, buns, etc. FB Café A Market 
De Huacho 554Salchicha huachana, jamón del país, chicharrón de prensa, frutas, menestras987-142-858 min S/30
Gastón y Ottocured meats www.gastonyotto.com 
GourMeat Perú.meat996-826-324 24 to 48 hr pre-order
Huevos de Codorniz Sra. Yuliquail eggs902-245-254 (only text. No Whatsapp)  
La Carnisseriameat998-158-725 free delivery with S/100 purchase
Mama Olgafree range eggs994-019-454  
Oregon Foodsbeef, groceries, charcoalSan Isidro +51 421 9148, La Molina +51 479 0833, Casuarinas +51 237 5173, Barranco +51605 6416Inbox on FB and IGmin S/500
Panutssausage, hotdogs, ham www.panuts.com 
Tomodachiramen, sushi, Japanese01 370 6119, 950 304 507 bank and cash
Pato Señor Dionisioduck963-171-981 / 974-651-282edes @granjaricopato / ricopato@gmail.comBCP and cash
Pollo Frescochicken910-605-173  
Todo Parrillameat, charcoal991-160-545  
Berries Alyssolberries980-822-672 min S/50 and delivery fee
Casa Verdefruit and veg993-887-145 mínimo S/ 80
Citrus VendingValencia oranges and orange juice www.guguich.pe / @jugozdelcampoalvaso 
Cr Transportshopper service922-488-245 / 944-600-229 / 927-443-406  
Del Fundo a Tu Mesafruit, veg, olive oil951-291-565  
Deli Frutasfruit and veg980-548-416 delivery S/ 10 y pedido mínimo S/ 80
Dimercfruit and veg917-899-123 mínimo S/ 100 soles y delivery S/ 10.63
Distribuidora Limónfruit and veg992-831-361  
El Alameinasparagus and olive oil994-612-894  
Enhegroceries924-544-774  
Fresh a Tu Puertafruit and veg951-566-510  
Fruta y Verdura Deliveryfruit and veg991-690-814 min S/65
F&L Fruteríafruit and veg942-358-331  
Hacienda El Carmelo de Virúcheese, oil, olives, etc.998-344-079  
La Chacra Deliveryfruit and veg938-359-166 mínimo S/ 110
Paqu jayaoils, spices915-156-465 / 944-510-014  
Punto Naturalfruit923-610-468  
Súper NikkeiJapanese products954-621-553 mínimo: S/ 200
Súper Shopfruit and veg www.supershopperu.com 
Agroindustria Ibsacheese, etc.991-443-155.  
Cayetano Expresscheese, etc.956-640-214 / 994-210-102 mínimo S/ 50, delivery gratuito
Lácteos Piamontecheese, etc.992-096-057  
Productos Lácteos D’Yumacheese, etc.983-231-946  
Proveeduría Leche Fresca 920-567-706, in Barranco: 01 477-3364  
Quesos Lait´s Tacneño 993-570-160 delivery fee
Yogurt Damattayogurt, granola, honey985-484-914  
Angobakery01 440-0639 24 hr pre-order
El Perro Panbakery940-569-111  
En Boca de Todosbakery990-738-451 delivery fee
Panadería Carmelitasbakery959-176-479  
Pastipanbakery981-043-829 72 hr pre-order
Wilton’sbakery964-579-963 mínimo de S/ 30
Demarseafood934-645-680 min 2 kilos
Frozen Products Corporationseafood934-645-064 mínimo de S/ 100 soles y costo de delivery S/ 20
Sushi by Nozscallops/conchas986-003-874 mínima un kilo
Pueblo Café por Ricardo Roblescoffee984-332-227  
Cortebeef965 729 800 USDA connection
Carnicorpbeef and pork933 821 328pedidos.carnicorp@gmail.comUSDA connection
Razzetobeef and pork948 317 157 USDA connection
Maria Reneechocolate992 061 446  
Tupuestitofruit and veg Inbox on Instagram 
NYJ Perumasks (and cloth head coverings)958 688 198, 956 726 894Inbox on Instagram 
Kioski Pasteleriacake Inbox on Instagram 
El Colmenarhoney, pollen, carob syrup (algorrabina)996 579 063, 988 002 450, 998 245 770Inbox on Instagram 
GNS Empresarial – Andre Morianodeep cleaning961 758 615Inbox on Instagram 
La America Cafemeals Inbox on Instagram 
Kent Peruwater987 808 472  
OraSi Perusoy, rice, almond milks Inbox on IG and FB 
Jiron Sanguchesandwiches, tacos, enchiladas01 746 8696  
Nippon Accessoriesmask carrier Inbox on Instagram 
Paltas Chirimoyasavocados987 604 364  
Mercadito Perufruit and veg994 663 376 (Debbie)  
Enkai Cocina NikkeiJapanese Nikkei01 550 6858www.enkai.pe, @chefmasaki14 
La Canasta de Yi Changgroceries @lacanasta.yichang 
Cosecha Verdefruit and veg Inbox on Instagram 
Praia Bravamasks praiabravacollections.com 
Rayito Print Perumasks966 635 440, 923 176 021  
Mystika Tienda Saludable 992 761 894  
Entre Perros y Gatospet food946 567 837  
Panalza Perutransportation services01 653 2787Inbox on Instagram 
Mi Gran Combolomo saltado, etc.985 404 636, 01 309 7979  
Tarta Maniadesserts, cakes Inbox on Facebook 
Pilsen Callaobeer979 734 003  
Toda Parilla del Coloraobeef, pork991 160 545 24 hr preorder, min S/150
Palta Hassavocado960 622 605, Surco: 986 761 661  
La Cafetta Expressgroceries967 705 388, 930 508 955, 955 171 592  
Living Home Perupasta, gluten free pasta www.livinghome.pe 
Tortilla de Papa Perutortilla espanola998 114 603Inbox on Instagram 
Aloramask boxes924 566 300  
La Verduleriafruit and vegetables978 336 197  
Panakuna Expressgroceries934 886 872Inbox on Instagram 
Dazzo Marketgroceries983 575 985Inbox on Instagram 
Tio Papassalchipapas, etc.943 492 907Inbox on Instagram 
Muyfreshkitosgroceries935 825 136  
Delivery Verduras y Frutasfruit and vegetables922 154 297, 970 792 593  
La Huerta Limafruit and vegetables Inbox on Instagram 
Montini Pizzapizza989 204 475Inbox on Instagram 
Qhatupersonal shopping service957 254 981  
MDLabmasks983 466 419  
TocTocEnviostransportation services947 749 866  
Super Pollochicken991 480 025, 986 611 485  
Not Perumasks Inbox on Instagram 
MSC Homefoot activated door opener, sanitizing station01 715 0603, 948 055 969ventas@sfhnos.com 
Delivery Expresspersonal shopping service994 007 441  
Brewdogbeer972 826 204, 958 192 425  
Al Tavolopizza Inbox on Instagram 
Yupigopersonal shopping service Inbox on Instagram 
La Cocina de Luiscocina criolla997 632 119 S/5 fee
Mafasil Deliverygroceries962 118 337  
JolamafarCOVID kits: masks, mask holder, gloves, disinfectant, etc.946 390 750, 965 750 066Inbox on Instagram, ventas.jolamafar@gmail.com 
Rafaella Clothingmasks Inbox on Instagram 
Servio Mercadopersonal shopping service944 986 598  
Goo Pricesfruit and vegetables Inbox on Instagram 
Vide Verde Perufruit and vegetables Inbox on Instagram 
Comsatel Perucleaning Inbox on Instagram 
Koketamasks Inbox on Instagram 
D’floritasoap986 844 794Inbox on Instagram 
Go Petpet food Inbox on Instagram 
Sami Productos Naturaleshoney Inbox on Instagram 
Feel Organiccotton Inbox on Instagram 
ValFruit Deliveryfruit and vegetables938 543 761  
Core Lima Cafesandwiches, etc. corelimacafe.com, Inbox on Instagram 
Eolis Air Peruair purifier994 212 167excellencemedical.pe, 
Lulucitymasks946 109 920Inbox on Instagram 
Fullen Perufork lift transportation www.fullen.pe 
Master Cleancleaning994 313 983Inbox on Instagram 
Safety Medmasks, glasses, shoe coverings, etc.993 534 599Inbox on Instagram 
2bornotobemasks with designs990 888 775Inbox on Instagram and Facebook 
Pedi.2slimes Inbox on Instagram 
Clean House Desinfeccionescleaning922 236 664Inbox on Instagram 
Drogueria GYPmasks Inbox on Instagram 
Ecocampo Perueggs ecocampo.pe 
Makis by Betosushi982 660 428makisbybeto.com, inbox on IG 
MiaValencia19masks936 956 889, 930 470 045  
Vimaantdisinfection products977 249 806administracion@vimaant.com 
Pasta Perupasta, groceries pasta.pe 
Fuego y Brasa perupollo a la brasa940 477 146  
Ibericos Goldwine and oil933 908 899  
Paletas Factoryice cream913 033 358  
Sra Diaz Cateringmeals956 599 382diazhomefood@gmail.commin 6 people, mother’s day specials
Dulce Finadesserts, cakes966 295 915  
Artesanta Tienda Virtualsoap, beauty products Inbox on Facebook 
Huella Verdeboxes983 535 231  
Paqari Yanablank books, journals Inbox on Facebook 
Champisolmushrooms999 094 111  
Julieta Gongoracorn tortila strips992 248 890  
Flores dia de la madreflowers971 377 631  
Orchidsflowers979 257 175, 960 703 092  
Palachinke Perupancakes Inbox on Instagram and Facebook 
Cafe de Limabread, empanadas, lasagna01 221 2513  
7G Gourmetfrozen fish, wine, groceries915 124 839@77gourmet 
Caserofruit and vegetables928 242 080  
Yllafrozen fruit987 827 541  
Neo Visioneye doctor, glasses, lenses975 035 993  
Caseritafruit and vegetables Inbox on Instagram 
Neve de Latte Gelateriaice cream940 861 628  
RomiPack Peruplastic bags994 013 626, 997 538 033, 998 818 009informes@romipack.pe 
Magaly Wenzelvet and dental cleaning for pets993 452 829 verified
Manuel Colsvet959 189 949 verified, speaks English
Yapa Expressfruit and vegetables963 694 779  
Bake Studiocake, desserts, pizza bases955 082 211  
Fleischmannyeast986 118 901 verified
Fleischmann Surcoyeast902 344 910  
Days Perushoe coverings Inbox on Instagram 
Ico Food Servicecheese, sausage, etc. www.ico.com.pemin S/100
Trigalbakery, baking ingredients Inbox on Instagram 
Frex Boxdried fruit987 220 187Inbox on Instagram 
El Buen Gustobakery, sandwiches946 244 168ventas@elbuenguesto.com.pe24 pre-order, min S/30, fee S/10
Ammameals Inbox on Instagram 
Cosmemeals cosme.com.pe, @cosme 
Staterameals Inbox on Instagram 
DARpita, hummus, dips, chips956 486 633  
Zokya Cafecoffee955 235 669  
Sercomedmedical supplies920 259 867, 966 423 059  
Salud 360medical972 297 666  
Normativamasks977 360 749  
Seafrostseafood914 681 205, 914 681 204, 962 203 109, 944 251 900 min S/120
Fonzarelli Perusauces, salsas987 708 382  
Agustos Marketsandwiches, groceries, fruit, pasta, etc937 288 233, 01 772 3830  
Kase Gourmetlasagna999 602 358Inbox on Instagram and Facebookdelivery fee
Laurie Pujaltground pepper www.laurie-pujalt.com 
Mikhuna Alimentospersonal shopping service968 200 588  
Papel Higienico Goodpaper hand towels01 429 6855, 998 377 292, 981 314 346www.PapelHigienicoGood.com, ventas@papelhigienicogood.com 
Bici Entregaspersonal shopping service923 487 696  
Elas Foodbuffalo wings, burgers, wine, etc.942 348 493 verified
Mascarilla Eirlmasks, gel, alcohol Inbox on Instagram 
Don Tomy Pasteleriabakery Inbox on Instagram 
Cieptacmental health counseling933 699 193, 01 288 3185  
Rai Peruspices Inbox on Instagram 
Angus Expressbeef, chicken wings Inbox on Instagram 
Pidealgoonline shop Inbox on Instagram 
Punta Gourmetcheese, etc. Inbox on Instagram 
Super Bid Perufinancial investment services Inbox on Instagram 
Despensallenabeef, flour, bananas, etc. Inbox on Instagram 
Scrapyartmasks, gel, alcohol, eye proctection www.scrapyart.pe 
Verde Natural Marketfruit and vegetables Inbox on Instagram 
Mr. Bar Deliverybeer, wine, spirits Inbox on Instagram 
Fishbox Peruseafood990 061 686Inbox on Instagram 
Hoof Meatsbeef Inbox on Instagram 
Munay Compostcomposting993 597 514helene@munaycompost.com 
Taglio Perupizza994 229 741Inbox on Instagram 
El Borregopollo a la brasa, cuy, pachamanca992 826 708  
El Rincon de los Saboresal cilindro, pollo, chancho986 029 856, 960 717 980, 960 358 182  
Best Packaging Perubottles, etc. Inbox on Instagram 
Tecnicas en Linea Blancawashing machine repair929 129 134info@tecnicasenlineablancalima.com 
Tool Celularcell phone repair931 150 305Inbox on Instagram and Facebook 
Lynch Cafe para Volarpasta, cake978 800 039  
Corsun Biobiodegradable clamshell packs01 440 4191, 998 171 892  
La Costanerapollo a la brasa, cuy, pachamanca999 933 355, 953 277 899www.lacostanera.com.pe 
La Casa Mari Mielhoney Inbox on Instagram 
Azafran Restaurantmeals978 997 042, 992 248 018Inbox on Instagram 
Niubiz Peruonline banking Inbox on Instagram 
Worx Cobusiness service Inbox on Instagram 
Derma Farma Peruskin care Inbox on Instagram 
Doggy Campdog camp, pet service999 055 841Inbox on Instagram 
La Central Huaralmeals Inbox on Instagram 
TeleOpticsglasses, eyeware, contact lenses,920 196 277Inbox on Instagram 
Aroma Panbakery Inbox on Instagram 
Giannichicken997 095 179  
Rosatelflowers Inbox on Instagram 
Wabi Casashopping service Inbox on Instagram 
Kninopet food944 574 353Inbox on Instagram 
Entel Empresascell phone services Inbox on Instagram 
Verisure Perusecurity Inbox on Instagram 
Reneq777cleaning993 728 552  
Callers Clubcall center services Inbox on Instagram 
Clinica Antonio Raimondihealthcare www.clinicaraimondi.com 
Taberna Pueblo Viejochichorrones, tamales, sandwiches986 853 267  
Ma Gracia Farfanmasks987 833 079 verified
Delizia Artfood photography Inbox on Instagram 
La Curacao Perutransportation services Inbox on Instagram 
Melina Bertocchiwine, champagne984 108 774  
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
Disclaimer: this list is a compilation from El Trinche, Google, Instagram, Facebook, and personal references. It does not represent the endorsement of any government or official entity.

Listening to Grupo 5 on the Way to the Forum

Sitting in traffic, as one does, I was delighted to be distracted from the viral news of the day by my taxi driver’s choice of cumbia (he remembered that I like to listen to cumbia). A certain song with special verve came up on youtube (due to some glitch in his car stereo, this taxi driver plays songs off his phone), and I discovered a secret in plain sight — Grupo 5. This is a Peruvian cumbia band that has been around for decades. The young singer has such style and stage presence that for a few minutes I was fully into the cumbia schwang.

Also, while in traffic, I finally saw a “vanity plate” for this dog moving company. I’m not sure why this isn’t a bigger deal here.

 

Markets of Lima… and Then There is Minka

I know someone whose hobby is photographing markets. In Lima, there are essentially four types of markets: wholesale food markets, local grocery markets, eco- or bio- markets (farmers), and previous “informal” markets (black market).

Wholesale markets

Santa Anita wholesale market in Ate is the source of all produce sold at the other markets in Lima. I was sure I had blogged about it but it was only in my mind. Santa Anita is about 25 minutes out side of Miraflores on a weekend. I describe it as 24 airplane hangars of produce. The prices are great if you need bulk (50 kilos of limes), but it’s not worth it if you are just shopping for personal use. Nonetheless, I’ve enjoyed visiting several times.

The fish market, Pescado Terminal, is the source of all fish and seafood sold in other markets and stores in Lima.

Gamarra is the textile market. Fabric at stores in San Borja can cost around 30-90 soles per meter whereas in Gamarra that same fabric will cost 6-16 soles per meter. Gamarra is also know for it’s “informal” part (they just got raided recently).

Informal Markets (but now with legal items as well like custom made cell phone covers)

Polvos Azules is the formerly known are for knock off goods and other “informal” goods. Halfway to downtown.

Polvos Rosados is the electronics and other goods market also formerly “informal” located out in Surco.

Grocery markets

The central market in downtown is a “local” market for Lima’s nine million inhabitants. It is near the old chinatown so convenient for tourist tours of downtown.

Surquillo 1 is a local market but also a central market. I still shop here as there are specialty stalls like the spice stall that other local markets do not have. The prices are better than at Wong. This is the market where the gastro tour go so there are lots of foreigners and tourists in this market. It’s gotten sort of dirty and it’s a mishmosh instead of neatly organized (meat in one area, etc.). On Sunday mornings, there is a farmers’ market outside. Lots of places to eat local food as well (and Venezuelan). The famous La Picanteria is just a few blocks behind hence why this market is part of the food tours.

Surquillo 2 is a collection of areas and not as safe as Surquillo 1.

Lince, Labotan, market is a local market for Lince. I like this market because it has zero tourists (well, me), it’s clean, organized, and covered. Plus, the area around it has many pastry industry shops.

Santa Cruz is one of the local markets for Miraflores. Exceptionally clean.

Productores in San Isidro (on the Miraflores border) is a local market for the wealthy San Isidro-Miraflores types along the malecon. There is a fish market there. One goes in to the parking lot at the San Isidro sports complex and the market is inside.

Magdalena also has a local market. As does every district/barrio.

Minka

… and then there is Minka.

This is in the words of a friend, “reason to never leave Lima.” (my photos do not do it justice. Go see for yourself).

Minka has an excellent fish market, produce market, etc., in the old style INSIDE a giant open-air California style mall. Everything under one “roof.” There are restaurants, tailors, play areas, a Metro (grocery store), cell phone stores, banks… okay, I take it back… maybe there isn’t a movie theater… nor a high end grocery store selling my imported cheese…

Juniors, Circas, and ‘Av Nots.

The addresses in Lima are kind of fun (well, one has to have some fun while in traffic!). Just take a moment and enjoy the name of the street in the photo. For a non-native Castilliano (Peruvian Spanish is “castillion”) speaker, this is a challenge… sip-ee-own-yown-a?

Jiron (jr.) is a small street. Sort of like a junior street.

Calle (ca.) is a street.

Callejon is an alley.

Avenida (av.) is an avenue and normally a long street.

Pasaje: is a cul-de-sac.

Paseo: is a street for a walk like a boardwalk. Streets like Arequipa that are divided with a sidewalk and trees in the middle are meant for these “walks”.

Prolongacion (prol.) is a an extension of a street.

Cuadra (or cdra) is a block.

Ovalo is a traffic circle/roundabout.

Sin numero (s/n) means that the house has no number.

Solar: is an alleyway in a fancy neighborhood.

Alta means that it’s at the top of the street or block.

Manzana means an apple but in this context it means a block. The term most likely originates from the feudal system (and not as I hoped that it was the amount of space that an apple tree spreads its roots). The use of “manzana” and “lote” or lot is predominant in some of the “conos” or northern, southern, and eastern districts of Lima. These are mainly lower socio-economic areas.

And related to this, an apartment is a “departamento” or “depa” and the first floor is the ground floor here.

Delivery in Lima

Like the famous cats (“if I fits; I sits”), if it fits on the back of a bicycle or motorcycle, then it can be delivered. The biggest delivery services in Lima are UberEats, Rappi, and Glovo. But, it seems like everyone has a delivery system, including some of the vendors at the local markets (and as in the photo, a mystery). The major delivery services charge a small fee for delivery, either fixed (Glovo charges 5 soles) per delivery or variable depending on distance (Rappi), and loyalty programs (30 soles unlimited per month). It is also possible to pay via credit card but some of the apps do not accept non-Peruvian credit cards. [An aside: I use cash only and give a tip, so one day, it was with some surprise that I found my purchasing blocked because I “owed” two cents. This must have been a typo, but, I still had to email for several days with the customer service center (that’s when I found out that Glovo is a Spanish company). They did erase my two cent debt, but this glitch in their system lost them a regular customer for a month.]

It is not just restaurant food that can be delivered. One can also buy groceries and other items. After the day in Wong when I saw that Rappi had their own shoppers and a dedicated cashier, I started using Rappi for heavy deliveries (after I learned that 10 pounds is the weight limit for a Rappi delivery). The apps also have features where the client can repeat a previous purchase making it much easier to find that pepperoni pizza (Antica has the closest to U.S. style pepperoni — not the pizza, but the pepperoni).

For a person with no car, it’s worth using delivery service rather than spending the money on a taxi. That said, delivery time is usually 40-60 minutes but it is also possible to make appointment times for delivery (even up to several days in advance). I have heard horror stories of people waiting for hours for a pizza, but haven’t had too many of these experiences myself. More annoying to me is when the product is not available and this then leads to “communication” about replacement products.

While many drivers find the armies of Rappi and Glovo deliverers annoying, one of the positive outcomes is that many of the housebound (I heard about a widow who now uses delivery instead of venturing out in traffic), have the commercial world at their fingertips. Home access is not new to Lima, as the bakers, knife sharpeners, and others have been making their rounds since the invention of the bicycle. Probably longer. The white carts contain baked goods.

On a funny note (or “first world problem” category), because many of the delivery boxes are carried as backpacks, often the food will have slid down to one side (like the aforementioned pepperoni, which I have found all bunched up with the cheese in one corner of the pizza, making a get-away over the crust).

 

The Realities of Daily Life in Lima

5w0Le4c3gUB-osQE6MMgGGbOfjezYOM8Nad9KXoQUfHW67HHlzLLjh0GcfyK7b_WAu4MVraRef6mzVW2-Amql6Eyn0FLuIJ9hK6xVcsyQOoOl6JD4PSyUQbrzoMx--339vnks78wXrKc50ifZlOBvKnJSQYSS-GFXzdCSNoS9CPbOejGM_pdZqPzWl-oBSYppia6BoEdD4w4-wk_KKm1W4BZOl1FHcmHaving now lived in Lima past the honeymoon phase, I thought I’d write about some of the “realities” of life here as a foreigner (as I did about Dhaka and Bogota. An aside: I continue my search for the perfect “chaleco”.). Most of the daily annoyances that I go through are due to my own personal peeves, but, as the song says, I yam what I jam.

  • Indirect communication: that is the modus operandi here. As a direct person, I sometimes get tired of the indirect route. I like to ask upfront and not have to guess what is being asked. To the locals, being up front is rude. The twain shall never meet.
  • Formality: The Limenos are formal people. They like things to be formal. It ties in with being “respectful” which I think might be more important to them than being “nice.” They like to dress formally. They like formal. Have I made it clear? If you can add more gold and more formality, the better.
  • Class: Yes, they have classes here. Yes, there’s racism. This is not unique to Lima. I still find it annoying to watch people treating others differently simply based on where they live, or their accent, or what job they have. (Let me get off my soapbox… aaaaagh…)
  • Time: There is the standard comment that people are “late” for everything. If the invitation says 8 p.m., then people will show up at 9:30. But, time, in another sense that I find culturally different, is that Peruvians are night owls. Therefore many things are not open until 10 a.m. and some businesses aren’t even open for lunch on Sundays until 2 p.m.! Also, many restaurants close for a few hours in the middle of the day. Sometimes I like to eat dinner at 5:30 p.m., and there are very few dinner restaurants open at that time.
  • Paying upfront/business deadlines: I recently had a reminder of this cultural lesson. I like to pay for things upfront so when I had something custom made at a tailor shop, I paid upfront. This was wrong because it meant that the shop no longer had any incentive to get the job done or get it done in a timely manner. To top if off, when I got the item, it was not done properly.
  • Making a scene: Peruvians, due to their preference for indirect communication, do not like it when people make a scene. I told the tailor (see above) that I thought he had terrible service, that I did not want to hear his excuses, and that I would not recommend him to others. This was a scene. But, the tricky part here is… that they were embarrassed for me that I lost my cool. Not embarrassed for themselves for their sucky service. So it’s a no-win situation. One has to simply use the “withhold payment” method (see above) to ensure that you get what you paid for (or will pay for.).
  • Calling: Peruvians love to use the telephone. They call to double check that the email went through, they call to make sure that what one ordered online is actually what one wants, they call to tell one that things are not going to be ready on time, they call to tell one that things are ready on time, they call, call, call, call… and call. Eventually, you will too.
  • The weather: In winter, there is no sun. I’m not sure one gets used to it. One gets through it. This may be one of the things that is unique about Lima (maybe also San Francisco, Seattle…)
  • The air pollution and food poisoning: The air is bad. It’s clammy and almost everyone gets colds related to the clammy air or suffers from other lung related issues. It’s worse closer to the coast. Food poisoning or “intestinal” issues are sort of surprising considering the reputation of the Lima as a foodie city. But, it happens, and it’s not special to Lima. And it happens to the locals too.
  • Security: Yes, it’s a big city of nine million. (The photo is actually from a place south of Lima, but I like the security measure for one’s purse. Or is it for the chair?) What I miss most is being able to wear a backpack in peace. If you wear a backpack on your back, and you walk in a crowd, you will most likely find that the outermost pockets have been picked. That’s just the way it is. It might not happen. But it might. Also, when paying by credit card, don’t let the card leave your sight. Most restaurants will bring the machine to you, but once in a while, you will need to go to the machine (usually at the bar or cashier).
  • Traffic: Every city seems to want to win the “worst traffic” award. Lima too. Yes, the traffic is bad. It is what it is. I still think that the traffic in Dhaka wins for badness. It is rare in Lima that you will sit in one place for 90 minutes, swarmed by 500,000 bicycle rickshaws, all while being eaten by mosquitoes. In Lima, as the locals say, “se mueve” or “it moves” — which is true. The traffic is bad in Lima, but it does actually move, even if it’s only at five miles per hour. Glad that I could end this on a positive note.

 

Another time, I’ll write about the best things about living in Lima.

Traffic in Lima – Is it the Worst?

I’ve heard lots of people tell me that Lima has the worst traffic… but then, Cairo, Dhaka, Bangkok, Delhi, LA, Santo Domingo, and a few others all claim that title. Even in Port of Spain, they claim to have the worst. I was inclined to say that Dhaka still holds the title. But, there are certain elements to Lima traffic that make it a contender — fear and boredom. In almost all cities with bad traffic, the “me first” aggression is the only way to get ahead, and in Lima, this is readily visible every time you step outside. During rush hour, the sheer numbers of cars all trying to go left from a right lane, or right from a left lane, or through red lights, is normal. There are many traffic cops and they will often override the traffic lights with their light sabers and whistles. The chances of getting in a traffic accident are high.

7t0oa9FNRs9oLFuAChnMfVsSt3iVJCV5USRD5s4kc3EmS_GwYFGNMpi8XabFDV7xWJ-6DfaTd0mt8XeZ4G4qN2JrivKtRwOAqEBxONsOyOuLac9EfDtw_mX9NUNz9kCkMs0SPr2GEyyIt4hGjZOqZktk3V2sOe0IRXIXoD5wKvGXILRm1mAx2BsAoPThen there’s the boredom. The hours spent in traffic (the painting above shows a day with light traffic). It can take an hour to go five miles. Apparently, Lima has grown as a city (9.5 million and counting) with commercial growth in the urban areas instead of expanding outwards. There is a business area to the south of the city but that seems to be it. Everyone else is commuting in to the city. When I say that it’s boring, I mean only if you get carsick from using your smart phone. Otherwise, if you keep your phone out of sight, and keep your wits about you, then…also, the traffic sights are not as interesting here. No camels, colorful rickshaws, overloaded carts, cattle, beggars, and so on. Just cars ad libitum. Ha.

If It Looks Like a Taxi; Then It’s A Bus

Here in Santo Domingo, the traffic is hellish. That seems to be the collective consensus. I still think Dhaka wins. It’s true that there are many cars on the road here and traffic lights and lanes are mere suggestions, but, the sewers are underground here…

Back to the subject of the taxi. The sedan cars that look like a beat up taxi are actually not a taxi. Even if it has the little trapezoid perched on top with the word, “taxi” written on it. It’s a bus of sorts. It will drive a fixed route, usually up and down a straight stretch of road, picking up and disgorging as many people as can mush themselves into the car — like those clown cars from the circus.

Phap_KIZU_ktdsCEThVlkA7qMXAwEM8H35aJSxt4rqDuAPZ8WouB5_9ELSuGyuOVHClWBxHj0jCmz_-N9gh9a0RA_66jXn3c7Tr-7dAGtovhCfaiWzPkzsMxh-LaOHoJayYyPnSSUnw8v1kiTb1V6J2A4n5NlSK01z46hPV-rnJ9_ICvzhzelZdQO8The taxis here are fairly invisible like Uber or Lyft in the U.S. They have Uber here and that seems to be the most popular. They even have Uber Moto here… Another popular taxi service is Apolo taxi. Every ride seems to only cost between 180-300 pesos (3.8-6 bucks) which is much cheaper than many other chauffeur services. Apolo taxi has an app but when I ordered via phone, they even understand MY Spanish. The dispatcher will tell you how many minutes before the ride arrives, the color, make, and a four digit driver number (not the license plate number). I also ask how much it will cost.

The drivers usually only speak Spanish and I even had a semi-intelligent conversation with one, even though he called me a “pendeja” which I pretended not to understand since I assume he meant it in a nice way…

Buy A Rickshaw to Go for Less Than $3,000!

For some expats, the biggest souvenir they buy in Bangladesh is a rickshaw. I decided to buy one for the blogging experience. There are many places where you can get them. Apparently the folks at River Tours will arrange a sale for you. If you want a used one, it is unlikely that the local rickshaw puller owns his own and so he may not be able to sell it to you. A colleague bought two rickshaws so I got the shop information from him.

The rickshaw shop.
The rickshaw shop.

Then I enlisted the help of two Bangladeshis. One arranged for us to go out to the rickshaw “shop” and made an appointment with the rickshaw maker for us. The shop we went to was back in the rabbit warren of streets to the north of Baridhara (it ended up being somewhere near the train tracks, for those of you who know your way around Baridhara). Without my Bangla-speaking Bangladeshi, I would never have found this shop. The shop was more of a “parts” shop and there were no shiny ready-made rickshaws for sale. That said, looking at the photo, now I see the tires on the roof.

Rickshaw Maker: Hasan

Phone: 0174059294

Address: Maria Cycle store, 97/1 Joar Shahara Bazar Road, Dhaka.

The rickshaw took one week to build, it weighs 250 pounds, and cost 20,000 taka (about $250). I paid 5,000 taka in down payment and rest on delivery as you can see from the receipt but you can pay all of it at once if you prefer. If I had bought two or more, I would have received a bulk discount (and remember that everything can be negotiated so I could have perhaps haggled to a lower price. Frankly, I was distracted by the gentleman on the right in the photo who was performing depilation in his nostrils — I could not take my eyes off his fingers!).

Hasan's number is on the receipt.
Hasan’s number is on the receipt.

I left the decoration of the rickshaw completely up to the craftsmen making it. At one point, the shop owner called to find out which name I wanted painted on the back and my friend told him to put my name on the back! I will most likely paint over it at some point. The rickshaw also has the maker’s telephone number and name painted on it. I like how my rickshaw is decorated although I would have chosen to not have guns painted on it, despite this being the tradition.

Freshly painted rickshaw.
Freshly painted rickshaw. Sells for $3,000 in World Market!

The rickshaw was ready a day early and the rickshaw maker wanted to deliver it as soon as possible. I asked why the urgency… they did not want it to get dirty. It was delivered to me fully assembled and driven by a professional rickshaw driver. Since then, it has only been driven by two people. I will mostly keep it in my future home, as a piece of installation art. Some people have suggested I take it out and give rides on it…

Yesterday, a friend recently sent me the link to World Market’s site advertising Bangladeshi rickshaws on demand for $3,000! But, theirs are not meant for actual use (it says so in the ad). Therefore it is better to buy one while in Bangladesh.

Normally, I try to post a new blog every sixth day, but because of yesterday’s rickshaw email, I decided to publish this now.

The answer to my previous post’s trivia game of “M’s Adventures moves to ______?” is: It is a country with a river famous for being the most _colorful_ in the world. Thanks to the random person on the Internet who decided to play along.

Tour Dhaka in One Day – Visit Bangladesh

Tourist in Dhaka? I get asked where to take friends and family when they visit Dhaka. Depending on how long the visit (hopefully it’s at least a week so that your guests can recover from jet lag), here is my run down of what to see and do, and frequently asked questions (FAQ):

When to visit? In the winter. The temperature will still get up to 70-90 F. You know that saying about “mad dogs and Englishmen”? Well, it’s true. If you go outside in April-October, you may become a mad dog from the heat. Not sure if you will become English…

The river in Dhaka.
The river in Dhaka.

Travel agencies and tour guides? Yes, use them if you want to. You can usually talk your way to about 2,000 taka per person for a group of six or more for half a day. Most tour companies include riding around in a minivan, called a “micro-bus” in Dhaka, bottled water, and long talks about the sites. That said, at almost every site, actually all the time, you will be surrounded by friendly Bangladeshis eager to talk to you, about the site or not. The official guides, or random fellow who opens the site for you, appreciate a tip (10, 20 taka for the random fellow) as almost anyone likes a tip (like the guy watching your car).

Self-guided? It can be done… if you want to attempt it in one day, here is how I would do it (but, I would try do this over two days leaving the Liberation War Museum and New Market for a different day):

“Bangabandhu” – site of assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of the current prime minister of Bangladesh. It’s located at Road 32, Dhanmondi. Opens at 10 in the morning. There is a nominal fee and you cannot take anything (no purses, no phones, nothing), into the museum. Leave it all with a driver in the car. Agree on a time when the driver will come get you.

Parliament: It’s an award winning building. If you want a tour of the inside, you will have to work your contacts.

Lalbagh (there is a bath house and weaponry if you get someone to unlock the door for you): It is the site used when the TV show, the Amazing Race, came to town the first time. But, it’s so much more.

Pink Palace (Ahsan Manzil): It’s a pink mansion turned museum. It has large steps which allows for a sweeping view of the riverfront.

Eat at Nirob — Lunch (if the traffic is flowing, you could be here by 1:30 p.m.)

Old Dhaka/Hindu Street: Buy shell bracelets (called “shakha”). These are usually worn by married Hindu women as a symbol of their wedded state.

Bracelets made from conch shell.
Bracelets made from conch shell.

Liberation War Museum: This is not for the faint of stomach. Gruesome photos and explanations about the war in 1971.

Dhaka University – Curzon Hall is a notable building.

New Market: buy whatever you can find, from lace, sarees, curtains, carpets, etc.

BBQ Tonite: enjoy the smoky courtyard atmosphere and grilled meat on a stick… if you have the energy.

On another day:

Boat trip on the river (can include visits to jamdani weaving workshop, jute factory, etc.). These day boat trips are relaxing once you get on the boat. They usually include lunch on board. Book through a tour company. They will pick you up and drop you off at home. One of the companies even has a boat shaped like a peacock. There are many companies but I liked this one: Tourist Channel Bangladesh… 02-8189273. Or 9130260. CEO is Iqubal Hossain. Touristchannelbd@gmail.com. It was 50,000 taka ($633 and the boat can hold 25-35 adults and 10 children, or something such combination) for the whole boat for the day including the bus to and fro, and lunch and tea. They were efficient without being overly “talkative.”

Rickshaw factory tour: Arrange through a tour company. If your guests can visit Dhaka when the Rickshaw Relay happens, even better. (The Rickshaw Relay is a fundraiser which is popular with expats.) There are half a million rickshaws in Dhaka, so you will see many of them, and I’m sure that any one of the rickshaw drivers would be happy to let you drive them around if you want to give it a try.

Go to the spa. Get mehendi(henna) tattoos. It wears off after a few weeks.

Shop in Gulshan: Shops include Aranya, Jatra, Aarong, Folk International, and Artisan (where “reject” Western clothes are sold, like TJ Maxx or Ross).

Fly to Cox’s Bazar, the world’s longest beach, or Sylhet tea country, or take a multi-day cruise in the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest. Look for the Royal Bengal tiger. I know people who have actually seen one in the wild.

Attend a wedding: If you ask your Bangladeshi friends, they are usually very happy to include your guests. Then your guests will have the fun of getting dressed in the traditional Bangladeshi clothing.

Explore! Or try some of the restaurants and find more than the 100 I tried.

Keep in mind that the traffic may change how much you can see in one day, or on any day. Take water, mosquito repellent, light cotton clothing, a good camera, nuts or other snacks, and sun protection (hat, umbrella, scarf). I have been on these tours in June and I sweated so much that I began to hallucinate that I was a fish. But, I got lots of photos!