No Reservations in Peru

Ruins, Hallucinogens, and Enlightenment

Anthony Bourdain gets a taste of Peru

By Gina FerraraOn this week’s “No Reservations” with Anthony Bourdain, our worldly chef and host takes us on a journey seeking spiritual enlightenment, and a literal taste of local culture as he explores several noteworthy towns in Peru.

Bourdain is first seen waking from inside of a mosquito net, fascinated by the visceral sights and sounds of the Peruvian jungle and waxing philosophical about the origins of the country. He narrates the terrible meeting between Spanish explorer Pizarro and the ancient native tribe known as the Incas, hoping that on his journey he may visit the Incan ruins that so many admire.And:Bourdain finally settles down in the dwelling of a shaman who prepares a hallucinogenic brew to ward off evil and illness to a troubled patient. He tries the mix of herbs and plant for the sake of his cultural experience, and perhaps to challenge his search of enlightenment.

After a breathless day near the Incan ruins (for the altitude in the city is beyond normal tolerance) Bourdain realizes with all he’s learned, that he has so much more to explore—and that sitting on a peak of stones that date a millennia—will be enough knowledge for one day.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Review of 4Real Peru and TV Shows Featuring Indians.