I wanted to find an area where local Peruvian people shop for cheaper clothing options. My Friend Eduardo was surprised to hear me ask if he could take me to these such places. He assumed I would want to see the fancy areas of Lima, he told me that that's what people from United Kingdom want and like.
So we jumped on a local bus which cost 1 Sol, approximately £0.22. The bus ride wasn't too long about 20 minuets, it was very busy, we stood the entire journey. It was a Sunday so most people were heading to the same market area we were headed.
The bus was filled with all kinds of people, young men listening to music, families with children, elderly people sitting quietly. It was great to see how Peruvian's travel around the huge city of Lima.
Bus Journey to Gamarra District
I could see when we arrived how busy this area was going to be, it was full of life. People shouting prices, waving clothing in your face, picking you out of the crowd and pulling you over to their stall. It was quite an experience, but one I would highly recommend.
Packed streets of Gamarra Market
Young Peruvian boy
We walked down the street for some time, snapping away trying to capture not only the people but the atmosphere in my images. It was hard not to feel a little anxious about being there, Eduardo was always hurrying me on, not wanting me to stay in one place too long.
I must admit, I did feel like I stud out from the crowd. Eduardo told me he could see people looking at me from every angle, he told me that people around here don’t often see foreigners in this area.
We continued walking down the street, it seemed to go on forever. The smell of deep fried bananas hung in the air mixed together with the smell of...well there isn’t a polite way of saying this...dog s**t. Quite the mix I must say.
Eduardo decided to turn off onto one of the many side streets that looked very empty compared to the packed Main Street. It was here where I found an elderly man sat on a bench away from the market, just watching the world go by.
Elderly man sits quietly on a bench away from the main Market street
We continued along the quite street away from the hustle, it was a welcome break as it was quite draining making your way though the crowds of people.
I would highly recommend going to see this area for yourself but if you're wanting to do it make sure you go with a local Peruvian. They can help get you out of sticky situations and also show you the best food. It's a must for anyone wanting to see the real side of Lima, Peru.
Two men watch football though a window.