Where To Find The Best Pizza in Cusco, Peru

By Maureen Santucci
June 12, 2015
Pizza in Cusco Peru
Courtesy Maureen Santucci

When it comes to food, what often strikes people are the things that just aren't eaten at home. In Cusco, Peru, what often strikes people is the number of places that offer pizza, especially for an area that has not seen a high influx of expats from either Italy or New York City. If all the hawking around town leaves you craving that cheesy pie, here are the three best places to satisfy your hunger.

Justina, Calle Palacio 110; Open Mon-Sat, Dinner only, from 6 p.m.

Relaxed and chill are the best ways to describe this small, out of the way pizza place. You have to enter a colonial courtyard where half of the building is in romantic ruin. Although I know renovation is inevitable, I can't help hoping it stays that way forever. The pizza place is in the back of the courtyard with a couple of outdoor tables and an additional five inside and upstairs. Seating is limited and the place is popular so it's worth getting there early. Choose from a wide variety of toppings; the price of a pie is quite reasonable, especially for the quality. Yummy garlic bread is served while you wait for your pizza to be cooked, served with a spicy salsa and garlic mayonnaise. Another reason this place is one of my favorites is the extremely reasonably priced wine. For drinks, you can also choose beer, soda or water; food options are limited to pizza and pizza alone.

La Bodega 138, Herrajes 138; Open Mon-Sat, from 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Just down the street from Justina is La Bodega. (Please note that Cusco streets frequently have different names depending on the block you're on). Equally delicious, La Bodega features a slightly different style of crust as well as some different varieties of toppings. One of my personal favorites includes bacon, blue cheese, and sauco, a type of elderberry. La Bodega also gives you more choices than pizza: pasta, really superb salads, soups, and desserts are on the menu as well. Fairly priced wine also makes its appearance, with greater variety than those on the Justina list. Seating is not quite as comfortable here, but it definitely has a more upscale feel. When it's crowded, it can be a bit difficult to hear so if you're purposely looking forward to dinner conversation, this pizza place may not be the best choice. There can be a wait so if you try here and you can't get in, walk down the street to Justina. Another plus side is that, unlike my other two favorite pizza restaurants, La Bodega is open for lunch.

La Cantina, Saphy 554; Daily from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

No mention of the best pizza in Cusco could be complete without including La Cantina. Although it is primarily a wine bar, people do go here just for the pizza—Italian style with a delicate wafer crust and featuring all Italian cheeses and meats (veggie options available as well). The pizza oven is small, only fitting one at a time and, despite being large in diameter, they are so light that they are personal-sized for a hungry person. Try some different toppings between the group so you can sample some of the varieties. In addition to the pizza, there are also cheese and meat plates, lasagna, and tiramisu for dessert. Most importantly, there is a huge selection of wines from Italy. As it is first and foremost a wine bar, the friendly and obliging staff are happy to open a bottle of whatever you like, even if you want just a single cup. However, the wine is so good, you're unlikely to be able to stick to just one!

Originally from the U.S., Maureen Santucci now calls the ancient Peruvian capital of Cusco home, where she has lived for almost six years, working as a travel consultant and writing for Fodors Travel Guide. This article was written on behalf of Tucan Travel, experts in adventure tours to Machu Picchu and all over Peru.

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15 Dances to Learn Around the World

This article was written by the Viator Travel Team on behalf of Viator.com. Great art isn’t always found in museums. Dance varies from place to place, yet remains a constant way for people to express themselves. Whether performed in a grand theater or on a street corner, dance can be emotional, tell tales, or be a way to celebrate. Whatever the reason or venue, the rhythm is out to get you. Grab your passport and take on a calorie burning challenge with these dances to watch and learn around the world. Samba in Brazil Brazil’s national dance, the Samba is actually African in origin, brought to the country by slaves. It has many variations, but the samba is lively, rhythmic, and often colorfully costumed. Its speedy steps can make the learning curve a bit steep. Samba is popular in Rio, especially during Carnival, but performances like the Plataforma Samba Show in Rio de Janeiro take place throughout the year. Flamenco in Spain Fast and lively, this Spanish dance is said to have originated in Andalusia. Vigorous hand clapping, heel clicking, and arm movements come together to create flamenco’s expressive identity. The rhythms and moves are challenging for most first timers, but at the same time typically a whole lot of fun. Experience Seville: Learn How to Dance Flamenco is open to dance enthusiasts with or without a partner. One-on-one coaching will enable even beginners to hone their skills and take home a new talent. Tango in Argentina It takes two to Tango. An Argentinean dance, couples need good balance to make long pauses in difficult positions. It’s believed the Tango got its start in the poorer neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the late 1800s. Timing is key; knowing when and how fast to walk, and just as important, when to freeze. Buenos Aires Tango Shows will get you excited, but a Buenos Aires Tango Show, Dinner and Dance Lessons will give you a first-hand taste. Mexican Hat Dance Sometimes called Jarabe Tapatio, the famous Mexican Hat Dance is a courtship folk dance. At first the woman is not interested, but with time warms up to the convincing suitor. Men traditionally dress as a charro, in black with decorative silver trim. Women wear blouses and long, full skirts that are also heavily decorated or embroidered. The dance and the costumes have become easily recognizable and representative of Mexico. The Mexican Hat dance can pop up when you least expect it; seemingly easier to pick up than other dances from around the world, onlookers are sometimes encouraged to join in. Kecak Dance in Bali A combination of dance, drama, and chanting, the Kecak dance was created to entertain tourists. Always performed just before sunset, it tells the Hindu story of Prince Rama and how he defeats an evil king to rescue his princess. As storytellers weave the tale, a choir of sometimes 100-plus men sitting in circles chant while swaying back and forth and waving their arms and hands. Visit Bali and you can see the Kecak dance at many locations, but the performance at Uluwatu Temple gets rave reviews. Waltz in Vienna There are many variations of the waltz, but one could argue the whirling Viennese waltz is the most famous. Continuously turning left and right while moving counterclockwise around the dance floor, dancers move fluidly to slow, melodic music. “The Waltz King,” composer Johann Strauss was famous for his Viennese waltzes. He wrote nearly 500 dance pieces during his lifetime in Vienna, of which more than 150 were waltzes. Studios around the world offer dance lessons, but traveling couples can learn the basics of the dance Strauss helped make famous when in Vienna by taking Viennese Waltz Dance Lesson for Couples. Irish Step Dance Riverdance and Lord of the Dance helped modern Irish Step Dance gain popularity and recognition. Done solo or by a group, dancers keep their upper bodies stiff while performing quick and fancy footwork. Costumes play a large part, and girls costumes are known for being decorative and costly. Two types of shoes are worn, soft and hard. When hard shoes are worn, a noise similar to that of tap dancing is made. You don’t have to be in Ireland to see a show. Due to the dance’s popularity, performances can be seen all over the world. Belly Dancing in Egypt and Turkey Performed on stages and restaurants around the world, belly dancing is said to be a Western coined phrase for the Middle Eastern dance Raqs Sharqi. Though it can be performed by men, it’s most commonly done by women; it’s a sensual dance in which abdominal movements typically wow the crowd. Shakira makes it look easy, but if you’re up to shaking your hips, you can learn the stomach ripple too. Dancers of all levels can shake up their vacation with a Belly Dancing Lesson in Istanbul with Optional Dinner and Show. Fandango in Portugal and Spain Believed to be a Spanish courtship dance with Moorish origins, Fandango is popular in Portugal and Spain. It’s lively and upbeat; dancers tap their feet and quickly change positions. It can also be danced by two men as a contest of skill. The first dancer sets the rhythm and steps, then the second tries to take the dance up a notch. Hopak in Ukraine / Gopak in Russia This Ukrainian folk dance is full of improvised acrobatic feats including jumps, spins and squats. Traditionally danced in the Ukraine and Russia by men, modern versions can include all. Energetic and almost infectious, it’s hard to sit still during a performance. Lessons can be found, but strength and fitness are essential. Zulu Dance in South Africa There are more than half a dozen types of Zulu dances, each steeped in culture and tradition. The dances represent many aspects of daily Zulu life; hunting, war, coming of age, or weddings. Drums and whistles often accompany the dances. Local tribe dancing is performed at the Shakaland—Zulu Cultural Center in South Africa. Haka in New Zealand Sports fans may know this dance as part of the pregame preparations of New Zealand’s rugby team the All Blacks. A traditional Maori dance, the Haka can be performed in times of war and peace. There’s foot stamping, loud chanting and body slapping. In addition to All Blacks rugby games, the Haka is performed at villages and museums throughout New Zealand, along with city sightseeing tours in Auckland. Hula in Hawaii Hula has come to symbolize Hawaiian culture. Like other dances, there are many types and styles. Along with festivals and competitions, Hula performances are held regularly at hotels and resorts. Hula lessons, often free, are a fairly common activity in Hawaii’s popular tourist areas and brave guests at Maui Luaus are often brought on stage to show off their dance skills. Clogging in the Netherlands Most people in the Netherlands, dancers included, don’t wear clogs anymore. Clogging was once done in wooden shoes, but today a more modern, yet equally noisy shoe is used. Clogging involves fast footwork and is somewhat of a mix of tap and line dancing. Polka in Czech Republic and Poland American bandleader Lawrence Welk introduced fans to all types of easy listening music; from his famous champagne music to upbeat polkas. A lively dance with Bohemian origins, its history differs depending on who is doing the telling. Though many believe the polka is polish, the dance did not originate in Poland. Some say it is a Czech folk dance, but refers to a Polish woman. Polish immigrants who moved to the U.S. after World War II adopted it as their own, helping it become fashionable in America. Either way, its popularity spread throughout the world and is still being danced today.

Inspiration

Escape NYC and Head to the Tri-State Area's Best Summer Festivals

A short drive or train ride out of New York City, you can find some of the metro area's best summer festivals, where they are serving up heaping portions of local food, craft beer, great wine, world-class art, music, and the all-American county fair experience. Click here to see me share these top festival picks on PIX11 Morning News this morning, and read on to learn more about these great summer events:Beer, Bourbon & Bacon: The Hudson Valley Brew Festival. June 20. This tasty event at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY, can be reached by a scenic drive up the Hudson River. The grown-ups-only festival lets you pig out, literally, all day, with a pig roast, fresh craft bacon (don't worry, there's other great food too), your own beer-tasting glass, and live music all day long. Tickets from $45 in advance, $55 at the gateArt Southampton, Long Island, NY. July 9 -13. Sure, the Hamptons are expensive this time of year, but a ride on the Long Island Railroad isn't, and daily admission to this spectacular art show is just $25. Top artists and galleries from NYC and beyond will be showing their work, and while we can't promise you'll see Diddy, Southampton is prime celeb-spotting territory. If you stick around for a trip to the beach, remember the sky-high parking rates drop to $0 after 5 pm.New Jersey State BBQ Championship & Blues Festival. July 10 - 12 in North Wildwood, NJ; It almost sounds too good to be true: This FREE festival celebrates the best BBQ cooks, live blues music, and is located on one of America's most spectacular stretches of surf and sand. If you're driving down from the city, make your escape in the early morning to beat the inevitable traffic to shore points off the Garden State.Connecticut Wine Festival. July 26 & 27, Goshen, CT. Yes, Connecticut is an up-and-coming wine region and this festival pops the cork on a great selection of locally sourced wines and wineries. A tasting ticket will get you your own wineglass, tote bag, access to some free food samples, with plenty of other quality foods, wines, and crafts on sale all weekend long. Tickets from $25.Ulster County Fair, NY. July 28 - August 2. If you want an "editor's pick," this one is my personal favorite and I take my kids every summer to enjoy the farm animals, fun rides, upstate food specialties like fresh ice cream and an array of apple-inspired fare, plus nightly concerts all in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains (one of New York State's lesser-known knockout travel destinations, with gorgeous peaks that rival the Catskills and Adirondacks for natural beauty and hiking opportunities) in New Paltz, NY; $15.

Inspiration

Ireland Definitely Wants to Be Your Top Gay Wedding Destination

This article was written by Sophie Forbes and originally appeared on Yahoo Travel. On May 22 the population of Ireland voted, by a large majority, in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage in their country.  And now, just a week and a half later, the Emerald Isle is being pegged as the next big destination for gay weddings. Tourism Ireland has already launched a campaign to attract same-sex couples to the island to wed. Just hours after the referendum result was announced, the agency released a video to YouTube called “Ireland Says YES to Love!” The video ad shows a montage of some of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes and landmarks—all potential wedding venues—from Lough Eske Castle to Carrowmore and Smock Alley Theatre.  The video also promotes the country’s famous Lisdoonvarna matchmaking and music festival, which has been a popular tradition for almost 160 years. In 2013 they launched the Outing, which is purely dedicated to the LGBT community. This year’s Outing takes place Oct. 2 to 4.  The gay marriage campaign has already generated huge international interest, and the ad has been viewed 30,000 times on YouTube alone. It is targeting nine international markets including Britain, the U.S., Canada, the Nordic countries, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. “Ireland is in the international spotlight and trending for all the right reasons across social and international media,” explained Tourism Ireland CEO Niall Gibbons. “It’s not often you get a blast of publicity like that.”  Ireland has a lot to offer couples looking for the perfect wedding destination and already has a booming wedding industry. Currently around 24,000 weddings a year take place in the country, in an industry worth more than $400 million.  The World Travel Market estimates that the annual spend on travel by the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community exceeded $200 billion for the first time last year.  This creates massive opportunities for all the local businesses now extending their services to same-sex couples—and tons of choice for couples themselves. Luckily, Tourism Ireland has a few helpful suggestions for soon-to-be brides and grooms to aid them on their quest for the perfect Irish venue. Kinnitty Castle Hotel, County Offaly A medieval castle situated on more than 650 acres of stunning parkland: This spot is simply perfect for a couple looking to add some dramatic flair to their event. Sirius Arts Centre, County Cork Overlooking a quaint fishing village, this classic but modern space gives couples the option to have a more minimalist look or dress the venue up to their liking.  Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin This restored 17th-century theater, one of the world’s oldest, is elegant but rustic and right in the heart of the City Centre. Couples will feel immersed in history while enjoying the building’s incredible acoustics. “The same sex Marriage Referendum was a watershed moment in Irish history for so many reasons. And as a gay man it was an incredible moment in my own life also. It is indescribable." "As an event manager I've spent several years helping couples plan their weddings. Straight couples who never had to consider the legality of their union as it was an automatic right. Now that the referendum has passed things have utterly changed and changed for the better. As seen by the jubilant scenes in the courtyard of Dublin Castle on May 23rd.” All of our weddings are bespoke and unique and we do our best to give the couple the day they have always dreamed of,” says Conor Byrne the Events Manager at Smock Alley. Whether it is a small simple intimate service or a large elaborate reception. We are an equal opportunities venue.” Byrne hasn’t seen an influx of new bookings, but expects that to change after the new law officially goes into effect. “The referendum has only just passed and is not due to be signed in to law until later this summer,” Byrne added. “I wouldn’t say that there has been an increase in business for weddings for same sex couples but I have met some a few so far and I’m sure this number will only increase.” Lough Eske Castle, County Donegal This spectacular castle, which dates back to the 17th century, is situated on 43 acres of perfectly manicured grounds and is now home to a five-star hotel and spa. Rosedale House, County Dublin Close to Dublin’s City Centre, this gorgeous Georgian property sits on magical wooded grounds complete with its own rose garden, beautifully designed bedrooms, and even its own nightclub. It is also a short walk from the seafront. This spot is divine for those who want a little of everything.  "We have always engaged with same-sex marriage couples going way back, however now they can get married officially we are seeing an increase in viewings, said Patrick Reade, an event planner at Rosedale House. “We don’t provide anything the same regardless of who is coming to Rosedale and will create that exclusive, unique, special day for all our guests.” More From Yahoo Travel 9 Reasons Why County Mayo, Ireland, is the Perfect Family Getaway I Hate Being Wet and Cold. So Why Did I Go Surfing in Ireland in October? Watch: Meet the World's Friendliest Dolphin in Ireland

Inspiration

Do Airport Screeners Know What They’re Doing?

The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General had a good idea: It conducted 70 tests of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) airport screeners to see how easily banned items such as explosives and weapons could make it through the screening process. Turns out the answer was pretty darn easy: In 67 out of 70 cases, banned items passed unnoticed. Homeland Security’s report on the tests will be published later this year, but the reporting of details by ABC News and CNN have already let the cat out of the bag, leading to the reassignment of TSA’s current administrator and a statement from Homeland Security assuring the public that the screening process is safer than the 67/70 results may suggest. My favorite quote about this comes from a Homeland Security spokesperson, reported by CNN: “the numbers in these reports never look good out of context.” (On second thought, my actual favorite quote about this came from The Onion: "TSA Agents to Now Simply Stand at Checkpoints and Remind Passengers That We All Die Someday.") My hope is that the “context” is that the 70 tests were targeted to airport screeners already suspected of lax practices. But if that were the case, why doesn’t Homeland Security just say so, instead of reassigning TSA’s leader? WE WANT TO KNOW: The U.S. has spent hundreds of millions of dollars on airport screening. Does this news about inadequate screening practices make you rethink your vacation plans?