Lemon

A basic Spanish lesson might lead one to think that Peru’s capital gets its name from an abundance of lemon trees, as lima means lemon in Spanish, but really this coastal gem of South America’s name actually derives from an ancient name dating back to even before the famous Inca ruled the land. Limaq, a Quechua word meaning “talker,” was an important oracle in the area for ancient civilizations, a word which came to be pronounced by Spanish conquerors, much like that which we hear today, as Lima.

Moving to Lima in December-January could not have been better timed, as I am arriving just as summer is making its way to the Southern Hemisphere. Give its coastal location, Lima's climate remains rather mild year round, but during sunny days here in Lima, the sun can be quite strong as temperatures easily reach the low 80’s and as my recent sunburn can attest to. However, considering that Lima is technically located in a desert (it's the second largest desert city in the world, go ahead and ask yourself who holds the #1 spot), the cool ocean breezes and mild temperatures are more than reasonable. It's like an oversized desert oasis.

View from the Miraflores Coast

I spent this weekend exploring the city by taking some jaunts along the coast, which seems never-ending. The summer sunshine and ocean views make it real hard to not love this city. A main avenue, the Malecon, dances along the Pacific Coast seemingly teetering along the cliffs that lead to the ocean below. Buffering between the avenue, covering every inch of remaining land, are numerous parks and gardens inviting city dwellers to trade their faster paced, noisier life inland for some shade, relaxation, and spectacular views along the coast.

Lima on the rocks

What impresses me most about Lima is its cleanliness and picture-esque beauty. A vast difference from the cities I am used to seeing throughout Central America, Lima seems to take more pride in its city by keeping it spotless and orderly. As I walk along the coast it's easy to feel as if I have reached the edge of the world. As the city literally stretches itself to the cliffs dropping down to the Pacific Ocean, it's amazing to see and feel the contrast of high rise apartments, restaurants, and stores stretched to their absolute limit as they meet the coast. It's as if the slightest tremor, or sneeze even, would send them all toppling over into the sea.

One of many coastal parks on the "Malecon"

And as for those who might fear the stretch of urban living all the way to the beaches of the ocean, hoping for some release and peace from the concrete and mortar, it's reassuring to see that the city has done an incredible job of leaving in tact ample, natural spaces of beauty. Blurring the line as concrete turns to beach are numerous parks and gardens lining the ocean cliffs. As you stroll along the coast these parks seem as infinite as the vastly stretching ocean laid out before you.

Summertime

There really is no better way to spend a lazy Sunday than waltzing the coast, finding a new bench, a new tree, or a new view to enjoy.