Arequipa is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Peru. It is known as "The White City" due to its many colonial buildings made of white volcanic stone, which gives the city a unique and picturesque look. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI), the population of Arequipa was estimated at around 1,057,000 people as of 2020. The city has a mix of traditional and modern influences, which makes it an exciting and vibrant place to live.
One of the things that contribute to the happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa is the city's pleasant weather. The city is situated at an altitude of 2,335 meters above sea level, which means that it has a relatively mild climate. The temperature in Arequipa is usually around 20°C during the day and 10°C at night. This climate makes it possible for the inhabitants to enjoy many outdoor activities throughout the year, such as hiking, biking, and visiting the city's many parks and plazas.
Another factor that affects the happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa is the quality of life in the city. Arequipa has a relatively low cost of living compared to other cities in Peru, which makes it an attractive destination for people looking to live comfortably without breaking the bank. The city has a wide range of amenities, such as hospitals, schools, and shopping centers, which make life easier for its inhabitants.
In terms of employment, Arequipa has a diverse economy, with the service sector being the largest employer. Many people work in the city's growing tourism industry, which is fueled by its many historical and cultural attractions. The city is also home to a number of mining and manufacturing companies, which provide employment opportunities for people with technical and engineering skills.
One of the things that can negatively affect the happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa is traffic and commuting. Like many other cities in Peru, Arequipa has a problem with traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This can make commuting to work or school stressful and time-consuming. However, the city is working on improving its public transportation system, which should help alleviate this issue in the future.
Air quality and pollution can also affect the happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa. The city is situated in a valley, which means that pollution from traffic and industry can accumulate and create smog. However, the city has taken steps to improve its air quality, such as implementing a car-free day once a month and promoting the use of bicycles and public transportation.
Noise and stress can also impact the quality of life and happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa. The city can be noisy at times, especially in the city center, where there are many restaurants, bars, and clubs. Additionally, the city is prone to earthquakes, which can cause stress and anxiety among its inhabitants. However, the city has strict building codes that ensure that buildings are earthquake-resistant, which helps to mitigate this risk.
Access to housing is another important factor that affects the happiness of the inhabitants of Arequipa. The city has a range of housing options, from traditional colonial-style homes to modern apartments. However, housing prices have been rising in recent years, which can make it difficult for some people to afford a home in the city.