John Pospisil

We got back from Lima on the 13th of December, just in time for the all-important Santa pic. Completely jet lagged for five days, the first chance we got to go to Broadway Shopping Centre was on the morning Saturday the 20th. Fortunately, we got there early so there wasn’t much of a wait. We were there for when Santa arrived – he was a very cheery fellow indeed.

Not surprisingly Hannah was freaked out by Santa, but we managed to get a good shot by all of us crowding in for a family shot.

It’s official – Santa prefers Coca Cola over Pepsi, as evidenced by the above photo.

While at the Circuito Magico de Agua, we came across a magical area where you could see where Santa makes his toys, as well as visit his house, and even get your photo taken with him.

Sponsored by Coca Cola, the El Pueblo de Papa Noel (The Town of Santa Claus) attracted hundreds of parents and children the night we were there. We were in the queue for an hour waiting to get in.

Because of the huge number of people, the Coca Cola elves were very keen for everyone to get through as quickly as possible. “Rapido, rapido Senjor” they urged as I ambled past the entrance gate.

As we’ve all heard, Santa Claus was used in advertising by Coca Cola in 1930s, but it’s interesting that in some countries, Coca Cola still uses him in their marketing efforts.

Oh, and if you have any doubts about whether Santa prefers Coca Cola, here’s a close up of the drink in Santa’s hand.

Now, only one question remains, where did they find THAT gringo?

Ever since we arrived in Lima everyone’s been asking us “have you seen Circuito Magico de Agua”?

We were a hesitant, since we wondered how exciting can some fountains with lighting really be?

Boy, are we glad we went – the Circuito Magico de Agua (magic circuit of water) at Parque de la Reserva was simply amazing. It was something I would never expect to see in Lima.

Opened about 18 months, the Circuito Magico de Agua consists of 12 spectacular water fountains with amazing lighting in a park close to Old Lima. Some of the fountains are set to music.

As corny as this might all sound, it’s really impressive. According to my father in law, it cost $8 million to build, and I’d believe it.

Funnily, we almost went home after seeing only four fountains, thinking that we’d seen the whole park. Luckily a park attendant pointed out that there was a tunnel that led to the second half of the park.

This park would be impressive if it was in London, Paris, New York, or Sydney – to find it in Lima is astounding. Apparently, the mayor of Old Lima has a program of creating and repairing public spaces, and if this park is anything to go by, he’s certainly having some success.

The park was full of locals, and the odd tourist. A very nice evening out if you ever happen to be in Lima.

Admission is four solace per adult ($AUS2) and children are free.