In Arequipa’s backyard, in the south of Peru, are two sleepy sister canyons that happen to hold the world records for the largest and second-largest chasms in the world. In Colca Canyon, in the small town of Yanque, locals has banded together to offer tourists a more authentic and unique glimpse into the lives of the area’s Collahua people. Today, the colourful crew of Yanqueños behind Sumac Yanque Ayllu to offer tourists a more authentic and unique glimpse into the lives of the area’s Collahua people.

The day after Spain held aloft the 2010 World Cup trophy, we found ourselves listening to South African talkback radio during a long drive down towards the country’s picturesque Eastern Cape. The topic for the show was what hosting the World Cup had meant to each listener. As the kilometres whizzed by caller after caller expressed their pride, as South Africans, at having proven the doubters wrong by staging one of the most spectacular sporting events ever.

I was given a chance to volunteer for six weeks in Knysna, South Africa, with an organisation called EDGE of AFRICA. Committed to responsible travel, EDGE of AFRICA provides “volunteer and internship placements in South Africa for gap years, career breaks, university internships, school groups and corporate team building projects.” Their aim is to make a direct positive impact on the local community and environment, while allowing travellers to gain firsthand exposure to the local heritage, culture and traditions.

There are several big bazaars in the city and most of them still function just the way they did hundreds of years ago, although, of course, they pay proper attention to sanitation and food safety. Traditionally, bazaars are not only the place to buy food, but also, and more importantly, to socialise, hear the latest news and bargain vigorously.