Note: I wrote this post, and the next one in Peru this past month, but was unable to post them at the time. I’m now back safe and sound in North America. Needless to say, the New Years show mentioned below has come and gone.

I have been in Lima, Peru for the past 2 weeks. I’ve been having an amazing time! The people are amazing, and I have seen so many brilliant things. I’m sadened to admit that my trip here is already half over. But there is one thing about Peru that is driving me banana sandwich… the coffee! As a complete Pacific Northwest coffee addict, I am finding it difficult to adjust to the coffee culture, or the lack thereof, here in Peru.

Lima dosen’t quite have as many Starbucks’ as Vancouver does, but it doesn’t take very long to find one, but they do not provide the same coffee experience as at home. The fresh brew is weak, and there is no cream, just milk or evaporated milk. On occasion if you ask for an americano con leche, you get a lovely, strong caffinated delight, but at other times the use evaporated milk instead of hot water… in the same cafe! What the ef is that about?

This morning I ordered an americano con leche at a new cafe and the added two spoonfuls of sugar without asking me. I was annoyed and thought the act was terribly presumptuous. Perfect says I should respect the culture. Either way, the lack of a proper coffee by my humble standards, is starting to make me mean.

I don’t want no sugar in my coffee
Makes me mean, it makes me mean
I don’t want no sugar in my coffee
Makes me mean, makes me mean

Sugar in my Coffee – Big Sugar

From Big Sugar’s 1994 album, Five Hundred Pounds, this track certainly embodies how I feel right now in classic Big Sugar style. This great Canadian band blends Blues and Reggae influences into a rocking, unique sound. I have long loved Big Sugar, and recommend anything that they put out during their decade recording together. If you are going to be in Edmonton this New Year’s Eve, check out Gordie Johnson and Mr. Chill play Big Sugar favourites with The Trews! Click link for more details.