Anyone looking for a taste of bygone glories and a sense of travelling back in time.
Arequipa, Peru.
There are five huge suites in the main house – this is where to stay if you want a true flavour of the grand history of the building. They have white vaulted ceilings and antique art and furnishings. Most splendid of all is the Imperial Suite, a palace of a room with a Jacuzzi and panoramic views of the city. In an adjacent wing are 36 more modern rooms with sleek, elegant décor and stylish furnishings.
The hotel’s Alma restaurant, a dazzlingly romantic room in the main mansion, is one of the city’s smartest dining spots, with dishes reflecting a modern twist on Arequipa’s traditional cuisine. In warm weather, food can be served outside at tables in the central courtyard. There’s also a sun deck on the 4th floor which is great for lounging and taking in views of the city.
Casa Andina can organize walking and vehicle tours of historic Arequipa city, known as the ‘White City’ for its beautiful colonial buildings, as well as trips further afield for white water rafting and hiking or biking in the countryside.
San Camillo market is a great place to take in the colours and sounds of the city and snack on some grilled fish from street stalls.