Peru Rail and settling for luxury

This is Mike...
Well we didn't originally plan it this way but we finally chose to go to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu train station) via Peru Rail's Vista Dome service. It is their deluxe rail service through the mountains and was probably the slowest train ride I have ever been on. We opted to go on this train rather than the coveted "back way" that most overlanders do by taking a local train to Aguas Calientes from at the hydroelectric dam behind the mountain. We decided the strike may have jacked things up too much for us to be adventurous on the back route. As it would happen we enjoyed the slow, direct, comfortable train and wasn't worried about logistics and just enjoyed the views and conversations with others. In the end, it worked out even though it wasn't our first choice.
   We met some nice people from Orlando who are planning to do a road trip like ours, but on a motorcycle, in the future. We all clicked well and they invited us to their elegant resort, Tambo del Inka http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3285&language=en_US for drinks and appetizers. The kids enjoyed the big fire and hot tea of the hotel while the adults discussed life. It was nice to just relax and let the evening unfold similar to the way we used to do back home in the states.
    

"All Aboard!" getting ready to board the train.

As seen on the internet, a sky view room for rent on a steep cliff.

A happy family chugging along.

Downtown Aguas Calientes is an easy walking community

Siesta time.

A clown on the train came by to play.

Elise danced with the clown for the amusement of all in the cabin.

Sierra busted a move and was a natural, very popular with the crowd.

As we approached the hotel we were greeted by fire dancers on stilts with fabulous music.

The hotel dining room prior to opening up for dinner.

The girls loved the fireplace and the cool masks of the resort.