Ask a concierge: Lima

At the Swissotel Lima, concierge Rodrigo Uribe Massa guides visitors to the best places to go, things to do and restaurants to try in the Peruvian capital. Here he offers expert tips for business travelers.

What should business travelers pack when visiting your city?
The most important thing to bring is a big appetite! Lima is considered one of the gastronomic capitals of Latin America, and visitors have so many flavorful dishes to try. After a long meal of Peruvian delicacies, visitors may want to take a healthy stroll through the parks and shops of the Miraflores district, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.

What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?
Astrid y Gaston [Calle Cantuarias 175, Miraflores; Ph: (511) 242 5387] is one of the best restaurants in Peru. It offers quiet ambience and a good wine selection. Central [Calle Santa Isabel 376, Miraflores; Ph:(511) 242-8515] and Rafael [Hipólito Unanue 203, Miraflores; Ph:(511) 221 1322] are two other outstanding choices. For any of these restaurants, we strongly suggest making reservations two weeks in advance.

What’s something that surprises guests about your city or hotel?
Our hotel is in Lima’s business center of San Isidro, but we’re only five minutes away from a major archaeological site.

If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see?
Visit the Miraflores and Barranco districts. Miraflores is known for its stores and boutiques, restaurants and beautiful sea vistas. Barranco is Lima’s cultural area with art and museums at its essence. But you’ll also find bohemian bars, fantastic restaurants and Art Nouveau homes that are the jewels of the district.

What’s the best option for outdoor exercise?
Olivar Park is a former olive plantation that dates back to the founding of the city. Today, it’s a pedestrian-friendly public park filled with centuries-old olive trees and gardens that are of special interest to bird-watchers. A second option is the Lima Golf Club, which offers golf and tennis in a green space that’s close to Lima’s city center.