My recent return to the land of the Inca culture was a special time. Our second trip to Peru, in May of this year, felt even more special than the first.

We began in Cusco, where we reunited with our friend Alvaro. He is an expert in Inca culture and a close family friend of my parents in Costa Rica.

Seeing Cusco through his eyes gave us a deeper connection to its history and traditions. But there was still time for some newer traditions, such as our visit to the famous McDonald’s in Cusco.

We traveled on to Arequipa, known as the beautiful “White City,” surrounded by volcanoes. From there, we went to Colca Canyon.

Watching giant Andean condors soar effortlessly over one of the world’s deepest gorges was an unforgettable moment, especially in light of the fact that those condors barely survived extinction.

Returning to Cusco, we set off on the Salkantay trek, surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks and valleys.

Not everything on the trip went according to plan. A bout of food poisoning from homemade ketchup forced us to cut the trek short. But despite that setback, we made it to Machu Picchu. Standing among its ancient ruins wrapped in mist, we felt the wonder and resilience of the Inca people come alive.

Beyond the landscapes and the ruins, what touched me the most was the simplicity of rural life. Even in poverty, people radiate warmth and authenticity. Their happiness, rooted in gratitude and community, reminded me that true wealth is not measured in possessions but in how deeply we live and connect with others.

I am coming to the conclusion that those who live a simple life are definitely wealthier.

By Dr. Peto Fallas
Fallas Family Vision