A Travellerspoint blog

Chinchero

13.07.2009

Yesterday I literally took a running jump off the edge of a mountain. Yes, that's right and I lived to tell about it. I was attached to a guide AND a big huge parasail. My friend Sonia and I decided to go paragliding. We didn't have anything else to do on a Sunday in Cusco, so we signed up last minute for a one day trip out to Chinchero, in the Sacred Valley. It was about a 1/2 hour drive from Cusco. There were 2 paraglider guides and 2 other guys who were there to spot and help get us off the cliff. The weather wasn't cooperating much early on in the day, so we ended having to wait for a long time until the wind conditions were just right. I didn't mind waiting because I knew we would be safer if the wind conditions were ideal. At about 2:45, we jumped off the cliff. We were up in the air for about 25 minutes. It was incredibly beautiful. Since the wind conditions had improved, we were able to go up extremely high, over the mountain tops. Now I think I know what a bird must feel like. It was an amazing thing to be able to do and to do in such beautiful surroundings. Now I'm back to my Spanish classes this week. I am moving along in the levels, but I don't necessarily feel like I can speak Spanish any better. I am not in the first level of "advanced". That is kind of a joke to me because I feel anything but advanced. I need a lot more practice with conversation and applying the grammar that I have learned. It's really hard! I have a new understanding of our "newcomber" students from other countries that are at Belair. It is really a challenge to learn a new language. Although, I think it may be a tad easier when you are a lot younger than I am! Here are some paragliding photos for your enjoyment...
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p.s. Thanks for all the great blog comments. I love checking for comments after I post a new blog!

Posted by Kristinh 12:59 PM

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Comments

Hola Senorita Kristin,

Outstanding! Looks like a real thrill ride. I dno't think your sister would do that. Keep up the posts. Look forward to them.

Buenas Tardes,

Dad

13.07.2009 by Stu Haagensen

I love the quote "Yesterday I literally took a running jump off the edge of a mountain....We didn't have anything else to do". Please make sure your schedule is full the remainder of the trip!

13.07.2009 by Amy

That experience sounds totally amazing! For someone who likes her feet firmly planted on the ground, I read the account of your jump and 25 minute glide with amazement.

13.07.2009 by Carol Bjorklund

Kristin

I admire your courage. Always wanted to do that, and still do, but think I would clutch at the last moment. I enjoy reading your blog, and the pictures--except for that poor animal you ate for dinner.

Linda

13.07.2009 by Linda Donnino

Wow!! That's all I can say!!

13.07.2009 by Dana G-W

OMG - What a RUSH! Glad you are alive to tell about it! Skype me tomorrow if you can - I want to connect with you re: interview candidates on Wed. What does your schedule look like?
Julie

13.07.2009 by julie

Amazing! This is one instance where I will stick to living vicariously. I am thoroughly enjoying reading your blog.

Meredith

14.07.2009 by Meredith Tharaldson

Hey Kristin....how fun! I can only imagine how beautiful it must have been way up there. Not like paragliding in Florida. Como se dice....usted es una chica con suerte! P.S., Dad....I would do it!!!

14.07.2009 by Tracy

It looks like great fun! I love the pic that looks like you are over the clouds. WOW.

14.07.2009 by amanda

This is amazing, Kristin! You are such a courageous person. Thanks for sharing the details. (I'm sure your spanish skills are much better than you're giving yourself credit for.)

15.07.2009 by Mary B

Loved your pics of the cuy- my son is also taking a spanish class at the U and he used it in his menu assignment. I don't think he'll get many takers for that item. You aren't missing summer up here it is cool.

15.07.2009 by Jan

Miss Adventure Woman.... way to go what a great way to see the country.

20.07.2009 by Melanie Sorensen

Nice one, Haagensen! FAB!!

03.08.2009 by Kristi Hanratty

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