Peru Travel Guide: Mario Vargas Llosa Wins Nobel Prize

Today Mario Vargas Llosa was announced the winner of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Literature. This 74-year-old Peruvian writer is well-known and respected for his talent that spans genres. LLosa has written widely acclaimed poetry, essays, and fiction, much of which features social commentary about his native country.

Typical street scene in the historic Barranco district. Photograph: Matthew Barker 2010

Born in Arequipa in 1936, the author spent considerable time abroad in Bolivia, Spain, France and England. This multi-cultural upbringing gave him a broader view of social and political issues, which have found their way into his writing. He is currently in residence at Princeton University where he received word of his prestigious award. Upon hearing the news, Vargas told CNN, “The truth is I did not expect it. It was a surprise … but a pleasant surprise.”

Although he may not have been prepared for the award, he has certainly been a favorite among literary people for decades. Mario Vargas LLosa is the first Latin American writer to win the prize since 1990 and we hope this news helps shine the spotlight on Latin American art of all types. You can read previous articles we have written about the burgeoning Lima art scene and literary tours in South America on our blog and Squidoo pages.

Or, if you would like to include a cultural tour of Barranco, where Mario Vargas LLosa owns a home, as part of your next trip to Peru, please contact one of our Peru travel experts who can help you customize your vacation.