I expected tall mountains; I

I expected tall mountains; I got snow-capped peaks more than 20,000 feet high.

I expected decent food; I got so many delicious meals, so beautifully presented, and so much of it that I couldn't finish it all.

I expected friendly people; I got great tour guides, including one that I totally adore, to the point that I want to go be a guide on the Inca Trail.

I expected a tough trip; I got the most strenuous hike I've ever done on a trail that was "Peruvian flat," climbing up and down and up and down and crossing three breathtaking mountain passes.

I expected to like Peru; I got an experience that made me sadder to come home than I can ever remember being before.

There's much more to come, but for now, let me just say that my 10 days in Peru were absolutely incredible.