Savvy Traveler Q&A: Peru with Fashion Travel Girl Blogger, Alexandra

The South American country of Peru should be on everyone's bucket list.  Not only is it extremely biodiverse with habitats ranging from arid plains on its Pacific coast to magnificent mountain peaks in its Andes mountain to tropical rain forests in its Amazon Basin, it is home to some of the oldest cultures in the world as well as one of the "Seven Wonders of the World," Machu Picchu. 

Our savvy traveler and blogger of the popular women’s travel resource for packing, fashion, and beauty, Alexandra of Travel Fashion Girl, shares why she was mesmerized by this unique country during her several trips.

I indeed did have one of my favorite travel days in Peru, and per our interview with Alexandra it will be easy to see why.  

Name: Alexandra Jimenez

Occupation: Blogger

Hometown: Los Angeles

When did you first fall in love with travel?

I fell in love with travel more and more as I took small trips on long weekends while working in my previous corporate job. I made a promise that if I ever stopped working for that company that I would take time off to travel; I did and a 3-month sabbatical has now turned into 7 years of long term travel. 

What’s your favorite way to get through a long flight? 

Movies movies and more movies. Since I travel full time I never do normal stuff like watch tv or go to the movies so it's my chance to catch up!

When was the first time you visited Peru and what was your first impression? 

My first time in Peru was July 2008 and the second time in February 2011. It's absolutely mesmerizing and quickly became one of my top 5 countries. I would gladly go back again.

What is the coolest thing you’ve done in Peru?

I did the trek to Machu Picchu not once but twice so that's pretty cool! The second time I also did the Colca Canyon trek and that was a killer but a good challenge.

Machu Picchu

What’s the one fashion item you always pack when you travel? 

Cute flip flop style sandals. I spend 90% of the time on or near a beach but don't want to look like I have shower shoes on all the time so a versatile style is key.

What does your perfect day in Peru include?

It would be just north of a backpacker beach town called Mancora. There are remote bungalows that you can rent and feel like you have a piece of beach paradise all on your own. Start the day with a long walk on the beach, go for a swim, do a little work on my ocean front porch throughout the day, have fresh ceviche for lunch or dinner then end the day with wine at sunset. Perfect!

Mancora. Photo via machupicchuperutrip.com

For newbies to Peru, what is the the one food you think they should try on their trip? 

Ceviche! The spiciest I've ever had. You've been warned.

What is the one fashion item you always pack when you travel? 

I love bohemian jewelry so I have a pouch filled with accessories wherever I go.

What is your favorite way to relax and unwind?

Sunset drinks overlooking the ocean.

Where is your favorite place to shop in Peru?

Cusco markets are fantastic for handbags and jewelry. The artisans throughout the country are some of the most talented I've ever seen.

For a culture fix in Peru, where should visitors check out?

Arequipa - a colonial-era city in Peru

Alexandra in Arequipa

What book are you currently reading while on your travel adventures?

I have Amazon unlimited so I constantly have something new mostly about blogging or business. I know - not very wanderlustworthy!

*Extra * Travel tips for Peru

Don't miss a trip the jungle and stay in an eco lodge. Super cool! Also, don't forget to pack your jeans and couple of cute outfits for the evening too. It's also colder than you might expect so bring layers.

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For exception packing, fashion and beauty tips that are geared towards the adventurous woman traveler, be sure to check out Alexandra's blog, Travel Fashion Girl. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter and/or Instagram.

I am including here one of my favorite posts from her blog about "Best Hair Products for Travelers" since my hair always suffers the most during my adventures. 

Explore more of our Summer Travel Series travel tips and interviews here.