Pilgrimage to Machu Picchu: Part One - Welcome to Cusco

Every year, I want to travel somewhere new. Whether that place is far away or relatively close ultimately doesn't matter. What matters is that the place be somewhere which inspires me and challenges me and fills my mind with possibility. Last year, I went to Cornwall and Devon in the UK. It was a coach tour. This year, I wanted something a bit more active. I decided upon Machu Picchu, Peru. It was either there or the Galapagos Islands. ( Machu Picchu won out because I heard rumours that due to wear and tear, the Inca Trail may soon be permanently closed to tourists. )