The Peruvian Tourism Ministry announced that according to the Country Brand Index (a survey conducted among travelers worldwide) Peru is among the top ten countries in five categories including: culture, art, natural beauty and archaeology. Peru was ranked third in both art and culture.

Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel is the new chain property, to open next October. Built as a colonial mansion in 1700’s, it will feature 43 oxygen-enriched rooms and suites; as well as a restaurant and a bar where guests will savor fine creations made with Andean ingredients. Its elegant decoration will boast colonial paintings and sculptures.

We joined Inkaterra’s first fam trip to present its newest property ”El Mapi”. The former ‘Machu Picchu Inn’ has been refurbished to cater to budget-minded travelers. We were surprised by the new concept accomplished in the restaurant and the bar, with contribution of Jordi Puig, one of Peru’s most renowned architects. Definitely El Mapi fills the gap given in Aguas Calientes in accommodations in the tourist class and differentiates its proposal offering first quality cuisine, originally designed common areas and professional service.

Travel agents would not recognize the former hotel Savoy Cusco, yet a hotel of the Sonesta chain. We inspected the Sonesta Cusco that will open officially by the end of the month. The hotel has an exquisite contemporary décor and will be an additional property in the first class superior category in Cusco city.

Aqua Expeditions announced their plans to launch their second five-star luxury cruise ship on the Peruvian Amazon, the M/V Aria, in April 2011. It will feature 16 specially designed cabins with floor to ceiling picture windows, a fully air-conditioned top deck with Observation Lounge, an exercise room, outdoor jacuzzi with sun deck, as well as the Aqua Expeditions' signature restaurant.

While the train railway to Machu Picchu is being repaired, Perurail announced this week the introduction of a special service using two Andean Explorers carriages. This additional daily departure will be available from May 1st to June 30th. The service includes the drive by bus from Cusco to Piscacucho train station.

Taray is a small town in Cusco region, where 140 families lost their homes to the floods that affected Southern Peru last summer. Our team in Cusco visited Taray and brought food and blankets to help lighten their loss. We thank all the guides, companies and clients that selflessly collaborated with us. Click here to see pictures.

School season in Peru has already started but the school in Taray was severely affected and needs to be rebuilt. SETOURS is raising funds for this cause. If you wish to donate please contact us at marketing(at)setours.com. Children in Taray will appreciate it.

The Cusco-Machu Picchu’s railway operator announced that thanks to the great efforts of its engineers, the train line from Piscacucho to Machu Picchu will be operative again by March 29th, provided that favorable weather conditions continue. Clic here to download the map.