I have always wanted to travel to South America and Peru was my first trip down there. I’d heard warnings before I left about the food, water and crime and wasn’t sure if I’d experience something so horrible I wouldn’t want to return. I didn’t know what I would encounter and went down with no expectations intentionally. I am happy to say I had no problems the whole week I was there and actually didn’t want to leave. What I discovered was a country filled with friendly, laid back people who seem unaffected by any hardship they have to endure. It’s a country with thousands of years of history, great food and a unique natural environment. Traveling with Machapu guides made me feel welcome to relax and experience the rich culture of Peru without getting sick, mugged, hijacked nor feel like a tourist. Preparation for the trip was not complicated either and was done within a month’s time, which included updating an expired passport. I didn’t have to get any vaccinations because we weren’t going into the jungle and there weren’t any visa’s required before leaving the U.S. All I needed was a passport, a plane ticket, very little money, and a carry on with some summer clothes. Once I arrived, my guide Carlos, whom I now consider a friend to keep in contact with, had everything lined up. The right restaurants to eat in, nicer than I’m used to lodgings, the best beaches and breaks to go to according to day, weather and energy and plenty of interesting sights and activities to make the trip a well rounded experience of a lifetime. One I hope to do all over again.
- Jim Lindsey, OBX - North Carolina |
