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When I left Lima….

• Nat King Cole had just given his first South American performance – in Lima
• Marcel Marceaux, the famous French mime, had hosted the French film makers first “film festival” in South America – in Lima
• Art galleries on Ocoña Street held exhibits by nationally and internationally known painters and sculptors and hundreds of visitors passed by each day.

These are some of the many events and happenings that were going on during the 50's and 60's. Miraflores and San Isidro were the suburbs….La Molina consisted of haciendas and farms.

Lima was also known then as “The Pearl of the Pacific.” Contained within roughly 20 square blocks, Lima was second only to Buenos Aires as the most varied and culturally aware city in South America.

Beginning in the early years of the 20th century until the late sixties, downtown Lima., also known as “El Cercado,” was one of the most rewarding places to live. Nearby were the monthly performances of the National Symphony and the National Ballet Theatre at the Municipal Theater, which is closed today. Also in those 20 square blocks more than twelve movie houses and a half dozen theaters of all sizes, including the “Segura Theater” existed and staged first class performances.

In the Lima that I left, the European culture and influence of many Spaniards, Italians, French and Germans mixed very well with the soul of the city. One could feel it in the many cafes and restaurants. I remember the importance of the entrepreneurial Japanese and who could forget the great Chinese restaurants of the famous Barrio Chino.

The "Jiron de la Union" was the place to go. This seven block long street and elegant promenade was lined with the best stores and shops. It was where the "smart crowd" went to walk, to see and be seen and enjoy a cocktail at the lounge/terrace of the Hotel Bolivar or the Crillon Hotel lobby bar.

The young people, hand in hand, went for walks and a furtive kiss to the beautiful “Paseo de la República” a 12 block long wide boulevard designed with gardens and Italian marble arched benches and statues with lovely gravel pathways (the
Champs Elysee of Lima) only three blocks away from Plaza St. Martin,

Coming Home to Lima has been a surprise and sometimes a disappointment. I miss some of the beautiful things that are gone, but I appreciate the new achievements. Lima is home, and, after 46 years, I take pleasure in being here again in "The Pearl of the Pacific.