Escaped to Peru - Latin American Blog

Inca Trail Trek Alternatives

2011-09-13T07:58:00.001-07:00

Read our blog entry on some alternative treks to Machu Picchu, sometimes there just isnt space on the Classic Inca Trail....

http://peru-tour-packages.com/peru-trekking/

Weekend Antics - High Altitude Fishing

2011-09-06T15:18:00.001-07:00

What we got up to this weekend.....

http://escapedtolatinamerica.com/blog/?p=33

Very interesting blog by Robert on the Ice Festival

2011-09-01T10:44:00.001-07:00

http://escapedtolatinamerica.com/blog/

Manu Cloud Forest - Cock of the Rock

2011-08-25T09:09:00.001-07:00

Visiting the Manu Cloud Forest is not just about seeing the national bird of Peru, the Cock of the Rock, the whole experience is a bit of an adventure!

http://www.escapedtoperu.com/english/manu-cloud-forest-road-trip.html

Peruvian Airlines suspended for 90 days!

2011-08-19T13:39:00.001-07:00

On the evening of the 18th August the Peruvian Ministry for Transport and Communications (MTC) suspended the operations of Peruvian Airlines, one of the four major carriers within Peru for a minimum period of 90 days without introducing any contingency plan for the thousands of affected passengers. This came without any warning and has clearly caused serious disruption.

It may be possible that some or all of the cost of these flights will be reimbursed but there is no guarantee of this nor has any time frame been given. We are waiting on more news and communications to clarify matters.

Clients of ours that will be affected by this have been notified and alternative flights are being arranged. Such last minute changes are outside the control of tour operators like us and this situation highlights the need to purchase travel insurance before your tour as this will cover such incidents.

Galapagos Islands Tightens Restrictions.

2011-08-09T08:12:00.001-07:00

Great BBC video explaining the restrictions of visiting one of our best selling destinations, the Galapagos Islands.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/fast_track/9554939.stm

New Peruvian Banknotes

2011-08-03T15:35:00.001-07:00

New designs of Peruvian bank notes have hit the streets, we enclose the new and the old so that when you have them both in your hands, dont panic, they are both legal tender. Here we are showing the 10 and 20 sol notes, new version above the old one.

Pisaq Market in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

2011-08-01T07:24:00.001-07:00

The market at Pisaq is a popular stop on a Peru tour package. The market is not just about handicrafts but as you can see in the video many country people come in to the town to sell their goods to each other.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTjZsAzLZqA

BBC Article On Travel Insurance - Read It Before You Go!

2011-07-18T13:36:00.001-07:00

This recent article from the BBC sums up why we tell our clients to purchase travel insurance, take a read before you travel with us or anyone else.

http://www.bbc.com/travel/feature/20110718-is-travel-insurance-right-for-you/1

Paucartambo Festival Videos on our YouTube page!

2011-07-18T10:53:00.001-07:00

Videos from the Paucartambo festival this weekend, Gary, Malka, Seppe and Robert went to visit, and Saby from operations was actually dancing;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Adb5YwG3Jq4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5Ow9KwEFhw

Anne and Hugh´s Travel Diary - Nazca

2011-07-18T08:01:00.001-07:00

We arrived late in the afternoon at the village of San Pablo to visit the Museo Maria Reiche. This is the former home, research base and now resting place of the German born Dr. Maria Reiche, Phd, who devoted her whole life to studying the Nasca Lines and fighting to get them protected and preserved for all time.

It is a fascinating place with copies of her original notes and diagrams on display, along with photos and graphs explaining how the Nasca constructed an underground irrigation system that fed a series of deep well water channels in the area.

The Museum was added onto her original one room house, which still contains the original furniture she used. If you look inside, it has been set up to show her (a sculptured manikin of her), sitting at her typewriter desk working, with all her sketchs and survey drawings (copies of the originals now stored in the Peruvian National Archives) hanging from the wall.

On the east side is a new gallery with Nasca Pottery and aerial photographs of the Nasca Lines. In the garden at east end is the tomb where she was laid to rest after she passed away.

Her work was instrumental in getting the Nasca Lines recognised as a World Heritage Site.

From here it was a short drive up out of the valley this small museum and town was in, out onto the broad flat Nasca Plains. Here we stopped at a viewing tower set up to allow people to look down on the Nasca Hands and the Nasca Bush.

This is one of the driest places on the Earth. It has not rained on these plains for centuries, which is why the Nasca Lines have lasted such a long time. Recently there was an unseasonal heavy rain storm in the hills to the east. The flash flood that resulted from this deluge did do some damage, which the aerial photos I took next morning will show.

We then proceeded south east to the City of Nasca, arriving just after sunset. Our hotel here was a Casa Andrea, quite lovely and comfortable.

After checking in we went out to a local restaurant for supper before turning in for the night.

Good night to all from Nasca, Peru

Read more about the mysterious Nazca Lines here http://www.escapedtonazcalinestours.com/

Annual Construction of the Qeswachaka Inca Rope Bridge

2011-07-07T07:39:00.001-07:00

Robert from the Cusco sales team recently went to see the unique annual Inca rope bridge construction near Cusco and shares his experiences and photos with you. Check out the link below:

http://www.escapedtoperu.com/english/qeswachaka-inca-rope-bridge.html

Colca Canyon - Condors and Natives

2011-06-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

Blog post by Gary

My wife Malka and I have recently returned from a trip to the Colca Canyon area of Peru and I felt like sharing some of our experiences and knowledge of this lovely area with you all.

Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon in the world and is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the US. The deepest canyon is said to be the Cotahuasi which is actually next door to Colca! The main attraction for our clients visiting this area is the ease with which they can see the largest land-living bird, the Andean Condor. Each morning during the dry season the Condor Cross viewpoint is visited by hundreds of tourists eager to see the spectacle of often half-a-dozen or more condors swooping on morning thermals.

I personally have been very lucky in that many times I have seen more than 10 of these majestic birds flying around, but be aware that at other times you may only see a couple of them, you cant get nature to order of course but this place is the most accessible point in Peru to view the birds.

Malka and I were taking it easy while we were there and I had a break from the office but we did re-visit and stay at some of the hotels we use for our clients, not just as somewhere to stay but also to re-check the standards and services of each hotel. For value for money our favorite is the Colca Lodge. The awkward transfer to this hotel is more than made up for by the comfortable rooms, great spa and the best feature, their own hot springs right in the hotel grounds. It is a real pleasure to wander down to the pools in the cold evening air in your fluffy robe and slippers, immerse yourself in the soothing hot water with spectacular views of the valley and stars, and enjoy a cocktail before dinner. A great experience which we recommend to all our clients.

For those looking for luxury however the Casitas de Colca is a superb, high-end pampering experience. This Orient Express property is simply sublime with guest having their own houses to stay in, each one with a sumptuous level of comfort and facilities. If you want to splurge on luxury this is the place, have a look at my video of the room we were in with its own private outdoor hot pool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcRX6S_VDvQ

The little villages in the Colca valley are fascinating too, many still cling to age-old traditions and the rivalry between the two sides of the valley and canyon are still evident in the hats that the women wear. The two cultures, the Collaguas and the Cabanas, have different styles of hats, one being more of a cap style and the other with a wider round brim. The women always wear them, and not just for the tourists. As you walk arounf the villages you will see what rural people have done for hundreds of years, in many areas of the Colca valley life continues in much the same way as it always has.

This is a beauftiful place that the majority of visitors to Peru dont get chance to see, if you have the time in your itinerary i highly recommend it and as you can see, its not all about the condors!

Peru Vacations - Is It Worth Visiting Colca Canyon?

2011-04-14T20:50:00.001-07:00

So, you’ve got to that part of your Peru vacation planning where you can’t decide which places to visit and what you may need to cut out in order to fit with your timeframe. It’s difficult as there are so many options in a country as diverse as Peru, that someone planning their trip can get overwhelmed.

One great option to include in your trip is a visit to the Colca Canyon in the south of Peru. This article will help you decide if you should include it in your Peru vacation or not.

What is the Colca Canyon?
The Colca Canyon was formed by the Colca river, and is located about 160km northwest of Arequipa. Most visitors use Arequipa as the base for trips to the canyon, which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and is considered the second deepest in the world.

Who goes to the Colca Canyon?
The Canyon has plenty of options for outdoor types and adventurers as well as those who simply enjoy spectacular scenery and traditional towns and villages. There are many popular treks around the Canyon, from two day circuits on well maintained paths to seven day routes that require an experienced guide. Rafting, mountain-biking, climbing and horse-riding are also popular. You can also take a dip in the ‘La Calera’ thermal baths whilst enjoying the superb scenery.

Wildlife enthusiasts have a near guarantee of seeing the largest land-based bird in the world, the giant Andean Condor. Visitors to the ‘Cruz Del Condor’ viewpoint in the early morning can see these huge birds swooping past the lookout point over the precarious drop into the base of the Canyon, 1.2 kilometers below.

How much time do I need to visit the Colca Canyon?
Including travel from Arequipa and then on to Lake Titicaca or back to Arequipa, three days are a good length of time. However, if you want to take more time to investigate Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, there is plenty to do to fill up any additional days! Alternatively if you are pushed for time the canyon can be visited as an overnight trip. A day trip from Arequipa is not recommended due to the travelling time involved.

What else can you combine with Colca on a Peru vacation?
Based in the south of Peru, the Colca Canyon is near to the impressive Lake Titicaca that sits on the border with Bolivia. Visitors can visit the various islands dotted around the lake and see the hand-woven floating reed houses that the local people still live on.

Also in the south and easy to combine in a circular route from Lima is Cusco and the Sacred Valley; the ancient centre of the Inca Empire. From there it is possible to travel to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, perhaps hiking the last 46 kilometers along the popular Inca Trail or one of the alternative routes.

Also relatively easy to include in your circuit are the Nazca Lines, a mysterious collection of ancient geoglyphs carved into the Nazca desert. Shapes range from simple geometric forms and lines to animal shapes like monkeys, birds and lizards. No-one is really sure why the lines exist, or who put them there.

The Colca Canyon is most commonly combined into a tour taking in Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. To this route you can easily add the southern coast and Nazca Lines and/or the Amazon Rainforest depending on the time you have available.

Have you visited the Colca Canyon? What did you think?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Escaped to Peru sponsors Peru´s most successful cricket team

2011-04-14T14:00:00.001-07:00

The Cusco-based Tour Operator Escaped to Peru, part of Escaped to Latin America, is proud to be a sponsor of the Peruvian national cricket team as they enjoy their best ever result in international competition in Costa Rica.

The Peruvian national cricket team has enjoyed its best ever tournament in Costa Rica and the Tour Operator Escaped to Peru is proud to have been a sponsor and is a constant supporter of the development of this sport within Peru.

The recent ICC Americas Division III tournament was held in San Jose, Costa Rica between the 14th and 18th of March and featured 6 Latin American teams seeking promotion to the second division. Peru competed against teams from Belize, Chile, Costa Rica, Mexico and the Falkland Islands and on pitches that were slow with huge boundaries all the teams battled with the local conditions and struggled to score runs. The Peruvian team played extremely well to beat every team except the eventual group winners, Belize.

Gary Sargent, the Managing Director of Escaped to Peru, is normally a member of the squad but missed this tournament due to work commitments. He explains "The current team is made up of mainly ex-pats like myself who have been nationalized". Gary goes on to say "We are actively promoting the development of cricket amongst Peruvian born young men and women and we are sure that within a few short years we will be able to field a complete team of native Peruvians". Until that happens the nationalized members in the side will continue to represent Peru in a sport that is not yet fully recognized by the Peruvian authorities despite being supported by the ICC, the world governing body.

Some of the private bi-lingual schools in Lima such as Markham and Hiram Bingham are running cricket coaching for their kids, both male and female, and recent junior tournaments bode well for the future. Anyone who is interested in finding out more about cricket in Peru can contact Gary via his office.

Machu Picchu - How To Guarantee A Better Vacation Than Anyone Else

2011-03-02T22:00:00.001-08:00

One of the most iconic sites in Latin America is Machu Picchu. Whenever someone thinks of taking Peru vacations, the classic photo of the Inca citadel sitting high in cloud forest comes to mind.

However, it’s no secret that Machu Picchu has large numbers of visitors all year round. If you’d like to visit the site and get a unique experience that is probably better than most other visitors, here are some tips.

1) Get there early
The idea of dragging yourself out of bed at 4.30 am may not be very appealing, but it will be worth it when you find yourself at the front of the queue for entrance to the site. You’ll also get the opportunity to be one of the 400 visitors with permission to climb the spectacular slopes of nearby Huayna Picchu, as this is only available to early arrivals.

2) Start from the wrong end
Most visitors to Machu Picchu take a conventional path around the site, working their way up the nearest terraces to the guard house to take their own version of the iconic photo of the site with Huayna Picchu in the background. You’ll get a dose of near-solitude if you head straight to the other end of the site near the base of Huayna Picchu and work backwards.

3) Arrive by foot
It may be hard work, but you’ll feel rewarded when you finally get to the site instead of rumbling along in a bus with everyone else. Two main options exist:

Option 1: The Inca Trail
A 3 or 4 day hike along the best-preserved section of ancient Inca highway, the route takes you through an incredible variety of landscapes before finishing at the Sun Gate that overlooks the site. It’s a very popular route, so make sure you book up to 3 months in advance...

Option 2: Walking from Aguas Calientes
If you are staying in the nearby village of Aguas Calientes, it is possible to walk up to the site first following the river then using a steep flight of stairs through tropical foliage. Visitors are recommended to make an early start and to carry a flashlight.

4) See the site from all angles
Check out the site from more than the classic Gate House angle. Try climbing Machu Picchu mountain itself – this is a fairly strenuous climb but offers fantastic views from the top of both the site and the surrounding mountains.

Other options for a different angle on Machu Picchu include looking down from Huayna Picchu and making the 45 minute walk back up the Inca Trail from the main site to the Sun Gate. You’ll be surprised how few people make the effort...

5) Get a good guide
There are a lot of conflicting theories about Machu Picchu’s history, and it is easy to get spun a tall tale by a guide. By travelling with a reputable tour operator you can get escorted around the site by an expert who puts a lot of time and effort into staying on the cutting edge of discoveries about Machu Picchu. This will definitely give you a unique perspective on the site. Be sure to choose a fluent English speaker!

6) Stay the night in Aguas Calientes
Try to avoid the typical scenario of cramming a trip to Machu Picchu into a single day. If you are prepared to stay the night in nearby Aguas Calientes you’ll have the benefit of a peaceful afternoon on the site after all the day trippers have left to rush back to Cusco. You’ll be amazed how much quieter the site is towards the end of the day. This also allows you to get to the site when it first opens on the following day.

Have you got any other tips to have a unique trip to Machu Picchu? What was your visit like?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Galapagos Tours - 5 Mistakes To Avoid

2011-03-01T13:40:00.001-08:00

If you’re thinking about visiting the Galapagos Islands, you’re in for a treat. Made famous by Charles Darwin’s voyage on the Beagle in the 19th century, the Islands lie 972 km west of mainland Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. Undiscovered by mankind until relatively recently, you’ll see a fantastic range of flora and fauna in ecosystems that exist nowhere else on the planet.

However there are a couple of pitfalls to travelling to the Galapagos Islands and also while you are on your stay. Here are five things you are best avoiding.

1) Missing your plane from Ecuador
The vast majority of tourists arrive at Galapagos by plane. It is only possible to reach the islands by a flight from mainland Ecuador starting in either Quito or Guayaquil. International flights do not go directly to the Islands. If you are flying, make sure your seat doesn’t get given away to someone else by:

Checking in more than an hour before take-off
Planning your international arrival to Ecuador at least a day before your departure flights to the Galapagos to give yourself time between connections (If you miss the start of your cruise there is no way to catch up!)

2) Taking a tour with an unqualified guide
Conservation on the islands is of critical importance, and the best people to maintain standards are the tour guides. They should help keep you on the marked pathways and assist in communicating and enforcing conservation rules.

Visitors to the Galapagos Islands should be guided at all times by a qualified individual. There shouldn’t be any more that 16 people in your group, to allow for proper control and guidance of tourists. They should also provide information about general water safety and monitor all swimming and snorkeling.

3) Touching animals
It’s tempting, but visitors should not interact with animals on the Galapagos Islands. The majority of animals on the Galapagos have no reason to fear humans, and consequently will allow visitors to get very close without bolting.

However, you should go no closer than within two meters of animals, as in some cases they will follow you, leaving their nests uncovered, exposing eggs or chicks to the sun. Additionally, no animals should be fed or baited on water or land.

4) Introducing new species to the islands
Introducing any exotic organisms to Galapagos could have a devastating effect on the ecosystems that exist in a state of delicate balance. Any food, animal and vegetable products as well as seeds, plants or fresh flowers should be declared before leaving the airport at Quito or Guayaquil so that a trained inspector can deem if they are safe or not. Live animals in any form are also not permitted.

The same principles apply for inter-island trips; each island is its own unique ecosystem, so introductions between islands can be just as destructive to the natural process of things as items from the mainland.

5) Lighting fires
In 1985, Isabel Island suffered severe damage from negligence with smoking and fire lighting. Amazingly, the same thing happened again almost a decade later in 1994. Even though a beach fire seems like the perfect end to a day on an exotic island adventure, visitors should resist the urge to build a camp fire.

Are there any other things that visitors to the Galapagos Islands should avoid? What are your Galapagos vacation experiences?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Vacations - 11 Tips To Remove Luggage Stress

2011-02-28T22:41:00.001-08:00

One of those necessary annoyances of travelling to Peru or elsewhere in Latin America is planning the luggage that you will carry. You don’t want to end up lugging around giant suitcases of empty space, but you don’t want to be breaking zippers either.

Here’s some helpful advice on sorting out your luggage for a Peru vacation.

Pack light with spare capacity. You will probably fill up your luggage space as you travel with purchases and gifts for friends and family back home.
Treatment of luggage in Peru is no better or worse than anywhere else - take a sturdy suitcase, soft-sided resilient backpack or hold-all (depending upon the nature of your trip).
You will also need a day pack which should be taken as hand luggage providing it falls within the permitted dimensions.
An easy way to free up space - you will NOT need a clean set of clothes for every day of the trip as all good hotels have laundry facilities and laundries can also be easily found in any tourist destination.
It is useful to have luggage that can be locked to stop people quickly rummaging through your belongings. (Do note that traveling through the US customs may break your lock to check the contents of your bags).
Check luggage requirements for all the airlines that you may be using on your vacation - these are constantly changing, so have a look at their website to avoid being caught out.
For hand luggage, the maximum weight varies between 6 and 10kg. The rules may differ on your return journey. Items such as laptops are often counted as separate from your hand luggage allowance, so take advantage of this in your packing!
If any of your flights involve a change of plane, there is always the possibility that you and your checked luggage will arrive separately. Make sure you plan a day on arrival at a fixed address that can receive your forwarded luggage when it arrives.
Try to use distinctive baggage that will be easier to describe if it goes astray, and label your bags clearly with your name and hotel destination.
If you are moving fairly quickly on to your next port of call add this information to the luggage label. Place a duplicate label inside each piece of luggage.
Due to the climatic diversity of Peru you may need a variety of clothes to suit the coastal desert, the high Andes and the Amazon Rainforest depending on your itinerary. Layers are more practical than thick jumpers and mean that the same clothes can be used in all three climatic zones. Check the high and low temperatures before you travel and the likelihood of rain.

Some additional guidelines for baggage allowances
Note: these can be subject to change, so make sure you check your airline’s website!

Baggage allowances vary from one carrier to another.
Infants have no baggage allowance, but parents are allowed to carry a reasonable selection of items for the baby, free of charge.
Children (aged 2-11 years inclusive) normally have full adult baggage allowance.
Club and First Class passengers have a higher baggage allowance than Economy Class, usually around 30kg in total.
As a very general rule, most international carriers as well as domestic carriers in Latin America allow a maximum of 20kg in Economy Class, for both internal and international flights.
If you are taking a small domestic flight, airlines operating planes with fewer than twenty seats often have a limit as low as 5kg.

Do you have any other useful tips for packing for Peru vacations? Did you ever have a bad luggage experience?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Machu Picchu - 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Too

2011-02-25T20:39:00.001-08:00

Have you heard of Machu Picchu? If not, you’ve probably never heard of Peru, or South America! Machu Picchu is a famous Inca Citadel located in the Andes mountains of Peru.

It is a destination that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists a year on Peru vacations. Here are five reasons why you should follow in their footsteps and go and see Machu Picchu for yourself.

One of the 7 wonders of the world
In 2007, Machu Picchu was voted one of the new ‘Seven Wonders Of The World’ in a worldwide internet poll involving millions of people. Other sites included the Taj Mahal in India, Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Colosseum in Italy and the Great Wall of China in...China.

If there was ever a place to see before you die, Machu Picchu is globally recognized as one of your best options.

An incredible setting
2,430 meters above sea level on a mountain ridge in cloud forest, Machu Picchu was hard to find and was never discovered by the Spanish conquistadors. Despite improved access for the high numbers of tourists, visitors can still get a sense of the remoteness of the site.

Visitors to the site can stare down over dizzying drops to the Urubamba river that churns through a deep valley surrounding the site. Peaks rise up on all sides, covered in thick vegetation. There is no substitute for visiting Machu Picchu and getting a true sense of what it must have been like for the Inca inhabitants hundreds of years ago.

Adventurous access - the Inca Trail
Machu Picchu isn’t just a site, it is a destination. For travelers with a sense of adventure and a desire to test their legs, Machu Picchu can be accessed by a 3 or 4 day trek along a section of the ancient Inca highway known as the Inca Trail.

The route passes through cloud forest and Andean tundra, climbing over 4000 meters on mountain passes in full view of snow-capped peaks. It is impressive, which is why it books out quickly - if you’re interested, get in touch with a tour operator at least 3 months in advance to reserve your space.

See it while it is still around
On the World Monuments Fund 2008 list of the 100 Most Endangered Sites, Machu Picchu showed up. With the number of annual visitors in the order of hundreds of thousands, the site is degrading under the physical effects of so many tourists.

Geological surveys on the site have revealed that certain areas are in danger of collapsing - if you want to visit one of the most iconic sites on the planet, you may not have much time left.

See the classic photo for yourself
Almost everyone has seen the famous photo of Machu Picchu - the Inca ruins perched on top of a mountain ridge with the impressive steep slopes of Huayna Picchu mountain in the background.

However, no photo can give you the full impression of the site. The only way you’ll ever appreciate the majesty of Machu Picchu is to visit it for yourself!

Have you been to Machu Picchu? What did you think?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

2011-02-25T13:05:00.001-08:00

Sometimes clichés really do say it best, and expect the unexpected does the job when trying to describe our Peru experience. When we booked our vacation with Escaped to Latin America we harbored the usual, reasonable expectations: that our flights would be reserved properly—they were; the hotel staff wouldn’t be surprised to see us when we showed up—they weren’t; we would enjoy learning about a country we’d never visited before—we did; and the memory card on the camera would be chock full of amazing photos—it was. Having our expectations met is certainly notable but in the end, it was what we weren’t expecting that made our trip unforgettable.

We didn’t expect our driver, Eduardo, to stay with us until we were safely checked in to our hotel, or wait in line with us the next day at the airport until he was satisfied we were properly checked in for our flight to Cusco and had waved us through security with paternal concern.

We didn’t expect a personal meeting with Freddy, our Inca Trail guide, the night before our trek. He came to see us at our hotel, got to know each of us, made sure we were physically and mentally prepared for the trek, and patiently answered all of our questions.

We didn’t expect to have Freddy anda bevy of porters all to ourselves, anticipating and attending to our every need for the entire trek; we didn’t expect every meal to be a multi-course extravaganza that was so delicious we asked our cook, Dimitri, if he would come home with us and be our personal chef (he politely declined); and we certainly didn’t expect to wake up every morning and have a steaming cup of coca tea handed to us before we got out of our sleeping bags.

From the planning stages with Zara who catered to our every request and patiently customized our trip exactly the way we wanted it; the many tour guides like Philippe and Silvia who engagingly shared Peru’s cultural and historical delights with us; our nightly chats with Freddy, when we played cards, learned new ‘Quechuan words, and exchanged cultural anecdotes; to our exit team that handled last minute travel glitches with calm professionalism; our escape to Peru far exceeded our expectations.

We thoroughly enjoyed the culture and people of Peru and anticipate more opportunities to travel in Latin America. When we do start planning that next adventure, the first item on our ‘to do’ list will be contact Escaped to Latin America; and we will definitely be expecting the unexpected.

7 Things To Avoid On A Peru Vacation

2011-02-20T08:12:00.001-08:00

Peru is an incredible travel destination, which is why so many people take Peru vacations and Peru tours every year. But just like anywhere else in the world, Peru has its problems. If you’re taking Peru vacations, here are seven things that you should be careful to avoid.

1) Getting denied entry
Conditions are always changing in Latin America to be able to visit a country, and Peru is no exception. International relations, disease outbreaks and changes in regulations can mean that even if you book a flight to Peru you won’t necessarily be allowed to enter the country. Check your government website for visa and vaccination requirements at least a couple of months before your departure date to make sure the Peruvian government has no reason to keep you out.

2) Health scares
Health problems can come in all shapes and sizes, from physical injuries to getting malaria. The best option is to have as many situations as possible covered and to make sure that you have travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and repatriation. Be sure to check the small print on your policy to find out what you’re really covered for and what you must do in the event of a claim.

3) Pick-pockets
Peru has some great markets like the Witches market in Chiclayo or the popular market in Pisac near Cusco. However if you are negotiating a crowded market place you could be the victim of pick-pocketing, something that frequently happens to tourists. When out and about be sure to leave your valuables in a secure place back at your hotel. Any essentials that you must carry should be in a money belt under layers of clothing. Also try not to flash money or valuable objects around in public as this will attract the attention of thieves.

4) Stomach trouble
Traveller’s belly has soured a few Peru vacations over the years. The best way to avoid sickness is by being careful about what you eat, and particularly the water. Tap water in Peru is not drinkable, so stick to bottled water and avoid ice and foods such as salads that can be washed in tap water.

5) Altitude sickness
Peru’s mountainous regions are spectacular but very, very high! To avoid getting altitude sickness try not to make big jumps in altitude over short time periods. If that can’t be avoided, make sure you plan a few rest days at higher altitude before attempting any exercise. Try to avoid alcohol and drink lots of water to stay well hydrated in your first few days at altitude.

6) Large bills of money
A common problem in Peru is the lack of small change that people have. Even trying to use a relatively small note to pay for something may create problems for many store-owners. Try to carry money in small denominations - you can change large bills at banks or when making bigger purchases.

7) High tourist season
The problem with being a popular tourist destination is that there are a lot of tourists in Peru! Businesses tend to raise their prices around the times of year that lots of tourists visit and popular sites can be very busy. If you would like a quieter vacation try to avoid the months of July and August and mid-December to mid-January.

What other things should be avoided in Peru? Is there anything else that you should be careful about?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Tours - Custom Designed Vs Group Tours

2011-02-19T14:30:00.001-08:00

If you’re considering options for Peru tours, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice. Something that can narrow things down for you is deciding between a custom designed vacation or a group tour. This article explains the differences and the benefits of each option so you can choose the best one for you.

Group Peru tours - what are they?
Group tours are fixed routes with set dates that are filled by travel agents or tour operators. They generally have a large capacity and the people booking onto the tour will not know the other travelers in the group (unless a large group books together and fills up the tour).

What are the benefits of group Peru tours?
Lower cost - as many people are doing the same thing, it should normally be possible for the tour agency or tour operator to get a lower price for the tour per person particularly when using larger chain hotels.

Good for visiting very popular sites - most countries where tourism is popular like Peru, have sites that everyone visits such as Machu Picchu. If you’d like to base your trip around these sites and don’t mind a fairly generic visit and the possibility of being in a crowd, group tours can be a good option for you.

Meet other people - if you’re up for meeting new people on your travels, then a group tour could be for you. You’re going to be spending the duration of the tour with other travelers that you’ve never met. You have to be lucky with who ends up in your group, but you could end up making some great new friends.

Custom designed Peru tours - what are they?
Custom Peru tours are those which you design in conjunction with your Peru tours operator. You decide how long you travel for and when, where you visit, what sort of accommodation you use and how much time you spend in each place. Your Peru tours operator will offer you advice and expertise on your options, but you ultimately get to decide. By having complete flexibility in your vacation planning the tour will be tailored to your tastes and interests.

What are the benefits of custom Peru tours?
Flexibility - you get to control all the elements of your tour. Instead of fitting in with the fixed schedule of a group tour, you can leave out places you don’t want to visit or spend more time in places that you’re excited about visiting.

Accommodation – on group tours operators tend to use large hotel chains. If your preference is for smaller more personal hotels with local character then a custom tour can accommodate this.

Visit places not on major tourist routes - group tours tend to only take people to the big tourist sites, but if you’ve got a lesser-visited location that you want to include on your Peru tour, a custom tour operator can make it happen. Also if you want to visit somewhere a bit different but aren’t sure where, a good custom Peru tours operator can suggest less popular places that are more off the beaten track.

Follow your interests – maybe you are an archeology buff or wildlife is your thing. A custom tour operator will design your Peru vacation to fit with your specific interests rather than the generic interests of a large group.

Great for families - typically families have a very specific set of needs and schedules and prefer to be their own group rather than part of a bigger one. If you are planning a family trip to Peru, consider going with a custom Peru tours operator. This will allow you to stay in family friendly hotels and set the itinerary and pace to suit you and your family.

Go at your own pace - the classic example is a hiking trip. In a group there will be fast and slow people, which can be a source of frustration for all concerned if people have to wait around for others or feel pressured by the rest of the group. In custom tours this isn’t a problem as you define the pace of your trip during the planning process. Equally on an excursion if you want to spend more time in a certain place, you have more flexibility and don’t have to convince anyone else to stay!

Custom tour operators may also be able to combine the best of both worlds. A tailor made vacation may include certain shared services such as a trek, excursions or shared transport where appropriate in order to lower costs and to allow you to share those experiences with a group. That way your overall itinerary is customized to your needs whilst taking advantage of some shared services.

Which option is the best for you? What other benefits are there for group Peru tours and custom Peru tours?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Ten Things To Expect On The Inca Trail

2011-02-13T13:02:00.001-08:00

If you want to take a Peru vacation, you’re probably thinking of visiting the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. The most famous and popular way to get to Machu Picchu is on the Inca Trail, over 30 kilometres of winding paved path that is more than 500 years old.

So if you’re thinking about Inca Trail tours, what should you expect? Here are ten important things.

1) A waiting list
The Inca trail is so popular that most people must book 3 months in advance. If you’re thinking about booking, it’s also worth remembering that the trail is closed in February for maintenance.

2) Obligatory guides
Since 2000 the Peruvian Government has made it an official requirement to trek the Inca Trail with a guide. This means the only option is to do the trek as part of a tour.

3) Poor service for low prices
When choosing your tour operator for the Inca Trail, avoid the temptation to go as cheap as possible. You’ll find yourself in large groups of twenty people or more and there’s a high chance that the tour operator will treat their Peruvian staff badly.

4) Tipping porters and guides
Even if you choose a company that treats its workers well, cooks, guides and porters will still be relying on tips to get paid a decent wage for their work. Generally accepted rates are as follows:

If you are part of a group, each group member should allow:
• US$5 per person for the porters (ratio is 1 client: 1 porter)
• US$10 per person to the cook
• US$10 per person to the guide

However, if you are part of a very small group, you may consider increasing these amounts.
If you are on a privately escorted trip, you should allow:
• US$25 for the porters
• US$10 for the cook
• US$50 for the guide

5) Difficulty with Altitude
Coming straight up from Lima and getting stuck into the Inca Trail will leave even the fittest hiker gasping for air. With the 4200m “Dead Woman’s Pass” waiting for you on day two of the four day hike, try to allow for a couple of days in nearby Cusco to acclimatise to the altitude before setting off.

6) Crowds
Guides do their best to keep distance between groups on hiking days, but expect to see crowds in campsites. Inca Trail regulations permit 500 people on the trail per day (most of whom are expedition porters and staff) so if you wanted to be alone in the wilderness, there are probably better routes to choose from in Peru.

7) Lots of rules
Want to light a camp fire? Nope. Any chance of camping outside designated sites? Nope. Walking off the trail? Nope.

Expect a set of strict rules when walking the Inca trail - if you get frustrated try to remember that a lot of people use the Inca Trail and for good upkeep a strong set of rules are necessary. If you want a more flexible trek, there are plenty of options for hikes in the same region.

8) Steps
Up, down, up down...don’t expect an easy, flat road. Inca engineers took their climbs and drops pretty seriously, so trekkers will have the benefit of kilometer after kilometer of stone steps to negotiate the mountains.

9) Early mornings
If you’re not a morning person, don’t opt for the Inca Trail. Particularly on the last day for the approach to Machu Picchu; your guide will be trying to get your group a good position amongst the others for entry into the site which will result in a cheery 5.30am wake-up call.

10) Incredible views and the trip of a lifetime
Despite all the problems and challenges, you’ll be set for a wonderful experience which keeps trekkers coming back to the Inca trail, year after year. It’ll be a decision that you’ll never regret!

Have you trekked the Inca Trail? What were your experiences?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Tours - 5 Unmissable Places To Include In Your Trip

2011-02-12T17:57:00.001-08:00

If you’re planning a Peru vacation, there’s a couple of places that you really shouldn’t miss - especially if this is your first trip to Peru. Here are 5 place in Peru that you should include in your Peru tour plans.

1) Machu Picchu
Everyone has heard of the world famous UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ve probably seen the picture of the impressive Inca ruins rising out of the cloud forest. No matter how many times you’ve seen the image, nothing compares to actually standing and looking down over the site. If you really want to go for the traditional Machu Picchu experience, try to book yourself onto the Inca Trail, a four day trek that follows a 500 year old Inca path and finishes at the site.

2) Amazon Jungle
Half of Peru is covered by the Amazon Rainforest which provides a home to the greatest concentration of animal and plant life on earth and incredible bio-diversity. The main areas that are visited by travelers are the Tambopata and Iquitos regions which can be reached relatively easily. The Peruvian Rainforest is a truely spectacular environment even if you are not a complete animal or bird enthusiast!

3) Nazca lines
Best seen from a light aircraft, the Nazca lines are a set of ancient drawings on the surface of a desert in southern Peru that range from simple lines to complex images like monkeys and spiders. Some figures are more than 200m across, and archaeologists are still debating hotly as to the origin and purpose of these mysterious lines as they can only really be fully viewed while flying!

4) Lake Titicaca
This lake sits 3,811m above sea level and is the largest lake by volume of water in South America and is shared with Bolivia. Visitors can navigate the lake by small boat and visit the various islands dotted around it’s vast area, as well as paying a visit to the famous Uros floating reed islands made by the inhabitants who still to this day live and work on their self-constructed homes.

5) Colca Canyon
The second deepest canyon in the world (the deepest being the Cotahuasi next door), Colca Canyon offers visitors the opportunity for some spectacular hiking and other adventure and cultural activities. It’s also recognized as one of the best places to see the famous Andean condor, the largest land bird in the world with a wingspan of 3.2 metres.

Visiting all 5 sites
Depending on the time constraints of your vacation, it’s possible to visit all these sites as part of the same trip. However, to do this independently normally requires a lot of time to organize transport and travel between the different sites (many of which are hundreds of miles apart) let alone sort out logistics once you arrive. If you are planning on taking a Peru vacation where you have less than a couple of weeks to play with and want to see this top 5 it is generally advisable to book with a Peru tour operator.

Have you visited any of the sites mentioned above? What other spectacular places would you recommend for Peru vacations

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Tours - What To Bring On A Trek In Peru

2011-02-06T22:45:00.001-08:00

The last thing any trekkers wants is to carry more than necessary. This was never truer in Peru, where trekking routes can take hikers over 5000m. Here’s some advice learnt from years of taking treks in Peru to make sure you avoid those unwanted extra kilos in your pack, but still have all the essentials covered.

A useful trick - give your stuff to someone else!
If you choose to book your Peru vacation with a tour operator, you’ll be carrying a lot less! The operator will be able to provide you with either mules and arrieros (mule drivers), or on some routes porters, to carry supplies, tents, sleeping bags, water and mattresses. This shrinks the size of your pack from 20kg to a small day pack. When you’re tackling a high pass on the Inca Trail or pushing up towards Punta Union on the Santa Cruz trek, you’ll appreciate the reduction in weight. If you are grinding up the 5200m pass on the Ausangate circuit you will certainly not be wanting to carry a gram more than you need to!

If you’re travelling independently, most major towns close to trekking routes such as Cusco and Huaraz will have a range of local tour operators. They will be able to assist you in resources for your expedition such as mules, but be careful! Some local operators have a better reputation than others. Ask around town for the best operators, or book with an external operator who already has a good trusting relationship with a expedition provider.

What you need to carry
If you’re following the suggestion above, then all you need to worry about is your day pack. When you arrive in camp at the end of a long days trekking, everything will be set up for you. All you have to worry about is eating the hot meal prepared for you and collapsing into your sleeping bag. Here’s a list of things to include in your day pack and on your person, learnt after a few years of trial and error:

Hiking Shoes
A Hat and beanie to protect you from the sun and the cold
Gloves and scarf for the nights
Sun Block & Insect Repellent
Some extra snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate)
A Rain Jacket or a Poncho
Towel
Swimsuit (recommend for routes involving hot springs)
Long Pants
Some cash in local currency
T-shirts that you can layer
Warm clothes, including jacket, fleece, sweaters and 4 pairs of socks
Original passport - photocopies are not acceptable.
Tips for porters, guides and cooks in separate envelopes
Plastic bags to store your spare clothes
Toilet Paper
Flashlight (and batteries!)
Pocket knife
A Water Bottle & water purifying tablets
A small personal medical kit

Are there any other preparations, or things that you advise bringing for a trek in Peru?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Eating Vegetarian In Latin America - Is It Possible?

2011-02-05T21:33:00.001-08:00

It’s no secret, Latinos love meat. Argentina vacations will present you with doorstop-thick steaks, Peru vacations with roasted cuy (guinea pig). Every country in Latin America seems to bring its plates to the table with a portion of meat included. If you’re a vegetarian traveller, does this mean it will be impossible to travel in Latin America without having to eat meat?

Difficult, but not impossible
The good news is that plenty of options exist for vegetarians especially in tourist hot spots such as Cusco, near Machu Picchu. A plant-based diet is actually the staple food of Latin America – the Inca Empire, for example, was based around corn culture. Markets all over the continent are bursting with fresh fruits and vegetables, far cheaper than any meat alternatives.

Things to make your life easier
If you want to travel successfully as a vegetarian, here are some suggestions to make life easier.

1) Bring your own supplies as backup
Without loading your suitcase with kilos of tofu, you can at least bring a selection of vegetarian snacks to keep hunger at bay when you’re out and about. Primal Strips are the meat-free version of beef jerky and there are a wide range of protein and cereal bars available .

2) Research restaurants in destination
Especially around popular tourist destinations such as Cusco, Antigua or Buenos Aires, you’ll be sure to find options for vegetarians. The website www.happycow.net has a list of vegetarian restaurants and health food stores globally, so you can check out options for eating before arriving in your travel destination.

3) The language barrier
There may be options for vegetarians, but many restaurant staff will be steeped in a culture of meat-eating. Before you leave try to learn the words for “fish”, “chicken”, meat”, “dairy products” and “eggs”. It’s also good to know that the Spanish translation for vegetarian is “vegetariano”, so you’ll eventually be understood if you patiently explain your situation to the waiter.

Be careful with asking for dishes without meat. The translation for meat is “carne”, which normally just refers to red meat, so you could still end up faced with a plate of chicken! Explain fully what your requirements are, as it’s possible that your waiter has never heard of vegetarianism before...

4) Consider travel with a tour company
If there’s one thing tour companies are used to, it’s satisfying a wide range of dietary requirements. It would be useful to state what you can or cannot eat when asking for a tour quote, especially if booking a trek like the Inca Trail or similar active excursion. A tour company with years experience in a certain location will have good links to restaurants and options that are considerate of vegetarians. This way you’ll be able to avoid the possibility of eating rice and beans for your whole trip!

Have you travelled in any countries where it was difficult as a vegetarian? What advice can you give to vegetarians travelling in Latin America?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Safe travel - 5 Tips For More Secure Latin America Vacations

2011-02-04T22:12:00.001-08:00

Millions of tourists take Latin America vacations and Latin America tours every year, and the vast majority have a wonderful time without any problems. However just like any other destination, travelers are in unfamiliar environments and should take care of themselves. Here are some common sense suggestions to bear in mind when on your Latin America vacation.

1) Look after your belongings
Many towns and cities in Latin America are polarized mixtures of affluence and poverty, with the result that pick-pocketing is common. If you are in a crowded environment such as the popular Semana Santa festival in Antigua, Guatemala pay close attention to your belongings.

When at restaurants keep a close eye on handbags or day-packs to prevent passers-by from grabbing your stuff.

2) Dress conservatively
In many Latino countries such as Mexico and Argentina there can be a strong macho culture, so women in particular should consider a reserved style of dressing to avoid catcalls or any unwanted attention.

3) Don’t flash valuables
There’s a simple way to avoid becoming a target for robbery - don’t look like you are worth robbing! Avoid wearing jewelry or flashing photo or video cameras around in public places. It may not win you any style points, but wearing plain-looking clothes will also avert the eyes of a potential thief looking for a wealthy foreign target. Be careful showing cash in public and consider a money belt instead of a wallet.

4) Night-time worries
Wake up the next morning with only good memories - try to stay in groups of familiar people, especially if you are new in town. Take care with taxis, and use only official cars with other people from your group. If you find yourself alone, project confidence and look as if you know where you are going, even if you don’t!

5) Ask your government
Latin America is a diverse place, and things are changing all the time. Beyond a common-sense approach, inform yourself about the current affairs and potential security concerns of your travel destination before departure. You can check out the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website www.fco.gov.uk or the US equivalent www.state.gov/travel.

What other advice do you have for secure Latin America vacations?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

When Is The Best Time To Visit Peru? Find Out Here!

2011-02-04T20:47:00.001-08:00

Planning Peru vacations? You’re probably wondering what dates you should book. The good news is that you can visit Peru anytime! The country is incredibly varied with multiple climatic zones, all of which have different seasons.

The only thing to consider when choosing your Peru vacation dates is what you want to do. Read the article to find out the best time of year to visit Peru for your chosen activities.

The “tourist season”
You’ll either be ok with more crowds and slightly higher prices, or you’ll want to avoid them. Peru's “high season” coincides with the driest months in the mountains: May through to October. The greatest number of visitors come between July and August. Airlines and hotels also consider the period from mid-December through mid-January as peak season, so expect to dig a little deeper in your wallet.

Trekking and mountain activities
An obvious one - many visitors come to Peru to walk the Inca trail and visit Machu Picchu or do the Santa Cruz circuit in Huaraz in the mountain regions of Peru amongst other great treks.

Hopeful mountaineers should visit between June to September in the highlands. During these months, days are clear with chilly or downright cold nights, especially at high elevations. Anyone visiting from December to March runs the potential risk of a wash-out under heavy rains.

Surfing and beach-side living
Summer along the desert coast is between November and March, when it is typically hot and sunny (especially in the north). Things turn cooler with a frequent hazy mist between April and October. For any water-babies, swimming is possible all year round, though the water itself (thanks to the Humboldt Current) is cool-to-cold at the best of times, except for the most northern beaches like Mancora and Tumbes.

Exploring the jungle
Amazon adventures can be conducted at any time of year, depending on your preferences. Between December and January heavy rains increase water levels, which offers distinct advantages for spotting wildlife and access by canoe to remote creeks. On the other hand, June to September is the best time of the year for some: Mosquitoes are fewer, and many fauna stay close to the rivers. Your choice...

Party time!
Peruvians love an excuse for a party, and this is reflected in the long list of national holidays when you can expect festivities and government services to grind to a halt. Consider how the following national public holidays in Peru overlap with your travel plans:

New Year's Day (Jan 1), Three Kings Day (Jan 6), Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (Easter week, Mar or Apr), Labor Day (May 1), Fiestas Patrias (July 28-29), Battle of Angamos (Oct 8), All Saints' Day (Nov 1), Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Dec 8), and Christmas (Dec 24-25).

There are always a selection of local festivals wherever you go, seemingly every other week!

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Begging - How To Deal With It On Latin America Vacations

2011-01-31T19:59:00.001-08:00

If you’ve ever taken Latin America Vacations, you’ll know that sooner or later you will have to deal with beggars. An extended hand usually accompanied by a sorry looking face will put most people in a very uncomfortable situation. Wherever you are taking a Latin America vacation you can use this guidance to help you deal with someone begging.

1) Think about your motivations for giving
Why would you hand over money to someone? Is it because of the way they look, or because of a story that they have told you? Do you want to help them get out of their current situation? Are you giving to ease your conscience, or because you feel pressured?

2) Consider your options for giving
Some things to consider - all is not necessarily as it seems with beggars. Sometimes the beggar will use the money to buy drugs or alcohol. In other cases the beggar is part of a scam to persuade people to hand over money, or they are used by gangs to obtain money. The difficulty is that you don’t really know the full circumstances of the person you met a second ago.

Think about the benefit of the money that you give away. Does it really provide a benefit? After the beggar has spent the money, what will they do next? Probably return to begging. Is there a way that you can spend the same money to have a better long term effect and not re-enforce a culture of dependency?

Maybe there are local organizations that you can donate the money to that work to change the circumstances of people who would normally be begging.

Also, is there something else other than money that you could give? Maybe food or water, or perhaps you could arrange to volunteer with a local organization using your skills and time instead. These are things that cannot be easily used for other motives.

3) Make a decision
Consider the options above, and come up with a personal policy for how you will deal with begging if someone approaches you, no matter what their circumstances seem to be. If you want to provide a benefit to the society that you will visit for your Latin America vacations, make a clear choice about how you will do it.

4) Be consistent
When abroad, stick to your decision. Maybe you have decided that the money you contribute as a tourist is making enough difference, or maybe you will give away a certain amount of money each day. Remember that if you give to one beggar you may well be approached by many others. You have to feel comfortable with your decision of how to treat them all fairly.

Dealing with begging is a very difficult subject, and there are no fixed rules. How do you deal with begging?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

How To Prepare For Peru Trekking And The Inca Trail

2011-01-30T19:33:00.001-08:00

Peru is one of the best trekking destinations in the world, no question. The variety of treks on offer, complete with stunning scenery and wildlife make it a necessity for anyone with a love for the great outdoors and a spirit for adventure.

Here are a couple of important things to consider when planning Peru vacations with the intention of trekking.

Book popular routes well in advance
The classic example of this is the famous Inca trail, a spectacular 4 day trek that ends at the World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. Conservation rules permit 500 people per day on the trail, which works out to about 200 trekkers and 300 support staff. In the case of the Inca trail it isn’t possible to do the route without a guide, making booking through an agency essential. Due to the popularity and fame of this trek permits can sell out months in advance, particularly in high season.

There are a number of different treks on offer around Cuzco as alternatives to the Inca trail, which any good Peru tours operator should be able to point out. However if you’re dead set on reaching Machu Picchu by the re-known classic Inca Trail, try to reserve your space at least three months in advance or longer if planning on trekking in peak season. Remember that the trail is closed in February for maintenance.

Other Peru trekking routes are not as difficult for bookings, but it is still worth making your reservation as early as possible.

Acclimatise
Most trekking that you do in Peru will likely be at altitude. The most popular centers of Cuzco and Huaraz are both above 3,000m so rushing up from sea-level and hitting the trails straight away will make things harder than they should be. Allow for a couple of days to rest and acclimatize when you get to altitude and you’ll find yourself enjoying the experience a lot more.

Independent or Guided?
Apart from the example of the Inca Trail, you may have the option to do a guided trek or to go independently. Whichever option you choose depends on your desire to carry weight, ability to cook on the move and your navigation skills. Trekking groups work with porters or arrieros (mule drivers) to carry supplies, tents, sleeping bags and mattresses. This shrinks the size of your pack from 15-20kg to a small day pack. This saving in weight can make a big difference when at 4,000m! Additionally if you take a supported trek your tents may be put up for you and you will be provided with three meals a day and often afternoon tea, as well as purified drinking water. Finally how are your map reading and navigation skills? If you are trekking in remote areas you could be risking your life if you do not know how to navigate in the mountains – having a guide and crew who know the route removes this worry. They will also know the best alternatives in case of injury or illness whilst on a trek.

Carrying as little as possible
Your tour operator should provide the essential camping items listed above and transport them by porter or mule, which leaves you only to worry about the items in your day-pack. After a few years of trial and error, I suggest the following (some items you will obviously be wearing!):

Long Pants
Some cash in local currency
T-shirts / shirts that you can layer
Warm clothes, including thermals, fleece / sweater & spare socks
A rain jacket or poncho
Original passport - photocopies are not acceptable
Plastic bags to store your spare clothes
Toilet Paper
Flashlight and batteries, pocket knife
A water bottle & water purifying tablets
Good hiking boots or shoes – well broken in
A sun hat and a warm hat to protect you from the sun and the cold
Gloves and scarf for cold nights
Sun block & insect repellent
Tips for porters, guides and cooks
Some extra snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, sweets)
Towel & wash kit
Swimsuit (recommend for routes involving hot springs)
A small personal medical kit

Are there any routes that you recommend for trekking in Peru? Are there any other preparations, or things that you advise bringing?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Latin America Tours - 6 Questions To Ask When Booking

2011-01-29T19:23:00.001-08:00

There are a lot of tour operators to choose from when planning Latin America tours. Options range from giant international operators offering everything everywhere to the small, locally-based independents. People searching for their Latin America vacations can quickly get confused.

To make sure you pick a reliable Latin America tours operator that is right for your kind of vacation, be sure to ask the following questions.

Where can I get referrals about your company?
Every operator should be able to point you to a testimonials page on their website, but how can you double check? Easy. Social media is on your side - check out what people have to say about the Latin America tours operator on big travel networks like www.tripadvisor.com to find out what people are really saying. If the operator can’t point you in the right direction for external reviews, maybe they’ve got something to hide...

Who are your tours designed for?
Find out what kind of people take the Latin American tours on offer. For this you’ll need to do a bit of thinking beforehand - what is it that you want? Do you want to visit Peru, Argentina, Chile or all three? Adventurous travel? Luxury and comfort? Relaxation? Take some time to think about these things and you’ll find it a lot easier to match up a tour operator.

How much do your tours cost and what choices do I have?
This is a tricky one - some Latin America tours operators overcharge and give you inflated quotes, while others slash their costs and pay their staff and suppliers very poorly. A classic example is porters on the Inca Trail in Peru - some budget operators don’t pay the porters fairly for their work to keep their costs low. You can find out if the operator is overcharging or ruthlessly cutting costs by asking straight questions.

Are there any additional costs?
Be sure before you book if you’re going to have to pay any additional costs for meals, transport, tours, entrance fees...anything. Check what is included and what isn’t.

What safety policy do you have?
Your Latin America tour operators should never compromise your safety. In addition they should provide 24/7 support via telephone so that if you run into any problems they are never too far away to help you out.

How much am I doing for the duration of the tour?
Do you want to spend your whole trip on transport, occasionally jumping off to spend a few minutes before shooting off somewhere else? Probably not. Check that the itinerary is realistic.

With custom designed tours you have complete control over your vacation. In this case, you should ask your Latin America tours operator for help in putting together a realistic itinerary that allows you to enjoy your destination at a reasonable pace.

A final thought...
What is the attitude of the tour operator when responding to your questions? Are they friendly, helpful and enthusiastic? If not, what chance is there that they will be when you’re abroad?

What questions do you ask your Latin America tours operator when you book? What are some of the things to watch out for?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Latin America Travel - How To Choose Your Perfect Vacation

2011-01-28T17:33:00.001-08:00

We all book Latin America vacations for...what, exactly?

One thing is certain, we’re hoping for a perfect break. We want to be able to come back from the vacation buzzing with the benefits of our time away. If you’re planning to travel with a Latin America tours operator, prepare to be overwhelmed by choice. The best thing you can do to pick the perfect operator for the perfect vacation is a bit of self analysis.

Try asking yourself the questions below when planning to get in contact with a Latin America tour operator for an itinerary. After thinking about your answers, you should have a much clearer idea about your perfect Latin America vacation (with a reality check included).

What is your travelling style?

How does the idea of ‘roughing it’ sound? Adventurous travel, camping, going off the beaten track, that sort of thing. Trekking the Inca Trail or five star luxury hotels?
Do you prefer to have tours and excursions in a group, or go solo? Both have their advantages. Maybe you like something in between - someone to share the experience with, but no crowds.
Do you prefer to follow a set itinerary with everything planned out and customized for you, or do you prefer to have free time to decide on the spur of the moment?
Do you enjoy spontaneous travelling with unforeseen challenges, or prefer to know what to expect?

What’s your situation?

How much vacation time do you have? Or is this a longer break? If you are short on time having a Latin America tour operator plan your trip to maximize the use of your time is surely the way to go.
What’s your budget? Does this fit with your travelling style?

...this is a great time to check if your time, money and holiday aspirations match up...

Can you handle it?

What’s your fitness like? You may want to go charging up glaciers in Patagonia, but will you be able to make it to base camp?
What is your tolerance to climate? Jungle conditions like those in Ecuador are hot and humid, high altitude places like the Cordillera Blanca in Peru are cold with thin air.
You might need to take medication during your trip - does your body have a favorable reaction? Anti-malarial medication is a classic example, required for tropical regions such as the Amazon.
What are your language skills like? Can you look after yourself with Spanish or Portuguese?

Are there any other things to consider when thinking about perfect Latin America vacations? What kind of Latin America tours do you prefer?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Escaped to Latin America Travel on the Inaugural LAN Airlines Flight from Lima to Easter Island

2011-01-27T18:03:00.001-08:00

LAN airlines opened a new direct route from Lima, Peru to the remote Easter Island last week and the Tour Operator Escaped to Latin America were on board.

Previously the main link to the most remote inhabited island in the world had been via the LAN flight from Santiago, Chile but the airline has now added a twice weekly direct flight from Lima. The inaugural flight took off from the Peruvian capital on the 9th of January and carried a contingent of travel agents, operators and hoteliers as well as a large number of eager tourists taking advantage of discounted rates.

Gary Sargent, Managing Director of the travel companies Escaped to Latin America and Escaped to Peru was on board and explains “This new route is very exciting as it offers the chance to combine two ancient cultures in spectacular locations more easily. This five hour direct flight connects the ancient Inca culture with that of the Rapa Nui. Shorter travel times and no extra connections mean that clients can spend more time in each destination and less time in the air and waiting at airports”.

Easter Island is famous for its huge stone heads which were carved and erected all over the island hundreds of years ago by the Polynesian culture that covered the South Pacific triangle. LAN will be flying to and from Lima on Sundays and Wednesdays allowing people to visit for a few days or a full week.

Gary also explains that “Easter Island is not just about the stone heads, although they are truly spectacular. Clients can also enjoy sports and active pursuits such as trekking, mountain biking, snorkeling, diving, surfing and deep sea fishing plus there is a picture perfect white sand beach to relax on. You should also try the traditional “Umu” food prepared in the ancient way and enjoy the tribal dancing and music”.

LAN say that schedules may change after April so passengers should check with their tour operator or LAN airlines if they are interested in visiting this unusual destination.

Latin America Tours - Will Your Tour Guide Be A Liability?

2011-01-25T23:36:00.001-08:00

If you’re considering Latin America tours, a very important part of the package are the guides who are used. They can make the difference between an incredible, unique experience and a dull walk-through. Even for sites as popular as Machu Picchu in Peru, a good tour guide can make you feel like no-one else has experienced the same Latin America vacation before.

So how do you find out if your guide-to-be will deliver a great experience? Try asking the five questions below to your Latin America tours operator when getting a quote for your trip.

Question 1: Do you use local tour guides?
There’s no substitute for a well-trained local guide. As well as having a unique perspective of their native country and surroundings, they will probably be more passionate about their home turf than a foreign guide. When asked, they will probably have a few local stories, legends and personal experiences up their sleeve to give a unique twist to your tour.

Question 2: Do your guides speak the local language and English?
Your guide won’t be much good if they can’t communicate in Spanish or the local dialect if you’ve got any questions for members of the community that you’re visiting, or if you run into trouble and need a bit of help.

Fluent English should also be a must, especially if your language skills aren’t up to scratch. At the very least you’ll want to get good value out of the guide that you’re paying for and if you can’t understand them, you’re wasting a lot of cash!

Question 3: Are they qualified in first aid?
Especially important for adventure tours or situations that take you into remote places like Patagonia, you need to make sure you’re covered if something goes wrong. Even basic first aid can stop a simple problem escalating into something major.

Questions 4: What travel experience do they have?
Is your guide a veteran, or fresh out of guiding school? Some guides (especially in Peru) like to make up answers to questions on the spot if they don’t have an answer. Whilst entertaining if you already know the answer and are just testing them, it can be annoying if all your cultural knowledge turns out to be false. It also removes the point of travelling with a guide!

Question 5: What measures does the guide take with local communities and the environment?
Are efforts made to minimize the negative impacts of tourism in your destination? Are members of the communities that are part of the tour treated respectfully? Respect for the local communities and the environment should be a consideration for your guide and tour operator.

Are there any other questions that should be asked about tour guides in Latin America? Have you had any outstanding or disastrous tour guide experiences?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Vacations Essentials - Vaccinations

2011-01-24T22:19:00.001-08:00

If you’re thinking about Peru vacations, you definitely need to get informed about vaccinations.

Nothing is mandatory to be able to enter the country, but you should receive certain injections to reduce your risks. Check out the advice below to make sure you’re prepared.

The following advice is general. You should check a government website such as the United States Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov). They will give a good overview of local developments and requirements regarding inoculations and outbreaks of disease.

Once you’ve got all the information you need, pay a visit to your doctor or travel clinic to find out which vaccinations you require, or those that need updating. You should visit 4 to 6 weeks in advance to allow time for any required vaccinations or medications to take effect.

Below is a summary of all vaccinations required for Peru vacations.

Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers
Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers
Hepatitis B: Recommended for all travelers
Yellow fever: Needed for areas east of the Andes mountains.

Note: Yellow fever is not required for Lima, Cuzco or Machu Picchu.

Rabies: For travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, involved in any activities that might bring them into direct contact with bats or at high risk from animal bites
Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR): Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1956, if not previously given
Tetanus-diphtheria: Re-vaccination required every 10 years

Malaria
Despite a lot of medical research, there is still no vaccine against malaria. Whilst uncommon, if you are visiting the following regions in the north and jungle areas of Peru, you need to take precautions: Loreto, Madre de Dios, Ucayali, San Martin, Junin, Tumbes and Piura.

If you are visiting the following parts of Peru, you do not need to take precautions against malaria: Lima and its vicinity, the coastal areas south of Lima, the highland tourist areas (Cuzco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca), and the departments of Arequipa, Moquegua, Puno, and Tacna.

Dengue fever
Mosquitoes can also transmit dengue fever. As with malaria, no vaccine is available. According to health authorities, you should take precautions if you visit the departments of Loreto, Ucayali, Cajamarca, and Piura.

What can you do about Malaria and Dengue Fever?
The best form of treatment is prevention of mosquito bites. Tourists on Peru vacations in affected areas should wear long sleeved shirts and pants. Also recommended is an insect repellant spray that contains 30 - 50% DEET. When sleeping, mosquito nets should be used in the jungle. Nets are available with additional DEET treatment.

It is also recommended that you take a course of anti-malarial medication to reduce the effects of malaria if you should contract it. Speak to your doctor about the best course of treatment, as there are several different options available and not all of them work with all patients and global malaria zones.

Do you know any other good references for Peru vaccinations online? What other precautions do you take before Peru vacations?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Four Major Insults That Peru Has Endured

2011-01-12T17:23:00.001-08:00

The bigger you get, the more prepared you should be for criticism. With a population of around 30 million, Peru is quite large and gets its share of criticism, both fair and unfair. Here are four memorable insults that Peru and Peruvians have endured - some are recent quarrels, others are long-running grudges.

1) The ABC television network Vs. Peru
The Internet recently lit up with conflict after a joke at Peru’s expense on the popular show “Modern Family” which airs on the ABC network.

The dialogue that resulted in online arguments was between Jay, played by Ed O'Neill, and his Colombian wife Gloria, played by Sofia Vergara.

"Now, maybe in Colombia ..." Jay begins.
"Ah, here we go," Gloria interrupts. "Because, in Colombia, we trip over goats and we kill people in the street. Do you know how offensive that is? Like we're Peruvians!"

Whoops. Some viewers managed to take the comment in the context of the over-the-top tone and ironic closed-mindedness which characterizes the show. Others, not so much.

2) Chile Vs Peru (Round 1)
If you travel in Peru then sooner or later you’ll discover the rivalry with Chile about...almost everything. One of the oldest spats is about the national drink that now belongs to both countries, Pisco, the main ingredient of the Pisco Sour.

A liquor distilled from grapes, Pisco was brought over to Latin America in the 16th century by the Spanish. The first vineyards were planted in the town of Pisco on the south coast of Peru. A fair claim to ownership perhaps?

Apparently not. At some point, Pisco (the drink) made it over to Chile and a bitter legal feud for the right to promote and produce the drink has raged between the two countries which lasts to this day.

3) Hugo Chavez Vs. Peru
Venezuela’s president always has something to say. About everything.

In 2006 on the run-up to the Peruvian elections, Chavez decided to explain his views about electoral candidate Alan Garcia.

"I pray to God that Garcia will not be president, hopefully God hears me," Chavez proclaimed, adding that Garcia was an irresponsible thief, a demagogue and a liar.

“I say it again; we are not going to have any relations with Peru if that 'caballero' is elected president because he is truly irresponsible. He is led by a demon and the North American empire and its dollars, the Peruvian oligarchy and in the mass media. He is going to be a divisive factor, an imperialistic card trying to divide to us, to prevent the union with Peru and to cause problems for Bolivia, Venezuela and any government who is going an alternative way."

Garcia has since been elected to a second term in office. International relations between Peru and Venezuela are a little frosty.

4) Chile Vs Peru (Round 2)
In the War of The Pacific towards the end of the 19th century, Bolivia, Peru and Chile were drawn into an armed conflict in a power struggle for mineral rights, commerce and territory.

Bolivia lost access to the Pacific Ocean and Peru conceded territory on its southern border. Both countries are hotly disputing the spoils of what Chile calls “las Glorias Navales” and the fight has even been taken to the International Court of Justice in the Hague.

The territory ceded to Chile is now known as the provinces of Tarapacá, Tacna, Arica, and Antofagasta in the ‘Norte Grande’. Until the provinces are returned, Peruvians will continue to view the results of the War of the Pacific over a century ago as a huge insult against their country.

Do you know of any other major insults that Peru has received over the years? What do you think of the four insults included in this article?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Four Fights Between Big Corporations and Latin American Interests

2011-01-11T19:28:00.001-08:00

Latin America is an incredible place - no question. Anyone who takes a Latin American vacation is likely to have some impressive stories to tell when they get back home. Latin America however has more to it than just being a tourist attraction - for decades foreign companies have seen the commercial potential of the continent.

Naturally this can lead to a conflict of interests, and there’s often a juicy story to tell about an international corporation’s bad behavior or manipulative ways. Here are four examples of conflicts between major corporations and Latino interests.

1) Aluminium Corporation Vs. Peru
Peru is an incredibly mineral-rich country. It is the world’s 3rd biggest exporter of raw copper and a huge proportion of the country’s income stems from mining.

The Chinese mining giant Aluminium Corporation (otherwise known as Chinalco) recently discovered US$50 billion of copper sitting beneath the Toromocho mountain of Peru. The only problem is that they can’t lay a finger on it until they move an entire town.

The residents of Toromocho have so far been offered houses in a completely new town, but the majority are holding out for a better deal.

2) Chevron Vs Ecuador
Petrochemical world leader Chevron has its share of skeletons in the closet, with some of the worst environmental and human rights abuses in history.

From 1964 to 1992, Texaco (now a subsidiary of Chevron) wreaked havoc in Ecuador by leaving more than 600 unlined oil pits in the northern Amazon rainforest and dumping 18 billion gallons of toxic waste water into rivers used for bathing. The toxic crude oil and formation water seeped into the subsoil, contaminating surrounding freshwater and farmland.

As a result, local communities suffered severe health effects, and large areas of rainforest were destroyed to make way for the creation of oil refineries and pipelines.

Any attempts by the Ecuadorian government to gain compensation from Texaco failed as it transferred all its assets in the nineties and was sold to Chevron in 2001.

3) United Fruit Company Vs Guatemala
The United Fruit Company is possibly the defining example of manipulative corporate interests in Latin America. The company grew to be a powerful entity towards the end of the 19th and into the 20th century. Its influence became so great with regional governments that many countries in Latin America in which United Fruit had plantations came to be referred to as “Banana Republics”.

The company eventually became too ambitious for its own good when it used its influence to prompt an invasion of Guatemala by United States armed forces. Land reforms by a democratically elected president threatened the company’s land holdings, so using the premise of a growing Communist influence, United Fruit persuaded the US government to oust the administration and install a more sympathetic leadership.

4) Coca Cola Vs Colombia
We’ve probably all heard something unpleasant that the Coca Cola company has done overseas. One such example was the assassination of eight workers union leaders between 1989 and 2002 for protesting against the company’s labor practices.

Many other Coca-Cola workers who have joined (or merely considered joining) the Colombian union SINALTRAINAL suffered a similar fate, with stories of kidnappings, torture, and detainment by paramilitaries who intimidated workers to prevent them from unionizing.

Do you know of any other examples of bad corporate behavior in Latin America? Or perhaps you consider this to be a bit pessimistic - what are some examples of good work done by corporations in Latin America?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to latin America

Essential Checklist - 10 Things You Don't Want To Forget On Your Latin American Vacation

2011-01-03T21:24:00.001-08:00

It’s time for your Latin America vacation! Perhaps you’ll be checking out turtles in Costa Rica, or trekking in Patagonia. However you’re spending your vacation, there’s some things that just have to be done. With the useful ten point checklist below, make sure that you’ve remembered to cover the essentials and try and get through the list as soon as possible to avoid any nasty last minute surprises!

[ ] Check the local news for any problems to avoid in your destination country
[ ] Purchase travel insurance that as a minimum covers cancellation, medical costs and repatriation
[ ] Check visa requirements for your destination and any additional paperwork that you may need
[ ] Get a credit or debit card with low overseas withdrawal rates - ask your bank for options
[ ] Purchase local currency in cash - buy a small amount to be covered when you first arrive
[ ] Check airline baggage rules and allowances to avoid big surcharges
[ ] Check vaccination requirements for your destination with your doctor or Travel Clinic
[ ] Purchase a portable phrasebook and learn a few key words before you leave
[ ] Confirm your flights two days before departure to ensure there have been no changes
[ ] Bring different forms of personal identification (and make sure you have copies)

Bonus tip - do your destination research!
Remember that you’ll get as much out of your vacation as you choose to put in. All the above are essentials that will help you avoid problems when you leave home but it doesn’t mean you’ll be any wiser about how to get the most out of your destination.

Check out a website with a good selection of country-specific travel tips, like Escaped to Latin America’s “Travel Info” or "Destinations" sections and put a bit of time into researching the history and customs of your tour destination. Latin America is an incredibly varied place - what works for you in Guatemala may not be very useful in Chile!

Are there any other useful ways that you can prepare for your Latin America vacation? Can you recommend any other good sources of information for vacationers heading to Latin America?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Latin America Tour or Independent Travel? Check Out The Benefits of Both!

2011-01-03T20:10:00.001-08:00

It’s a big question on the lips of any traveler planning a vacation to Latin America. Do I go with a tour operator, or travel independently? As for most issues surrounding travel, the answer depends on the person. Have a look at the benefits of both options below to decide if your Latin America vacation will be best done as a tour, or by your own efforts.

The Benefits of Independent Travel in Latin America

Flexibility during your vacation
This is the big one. With a tour you’re on a fixed schedule moving along a fixed route. If you want to stick around in a particularly beautiful Latin American spot for longer or miss somewhere out, it’s very unlikely that you will be able to make major changes to your tour without incurring costs.

Take the travel experience head-on
If the idea of arriving dazed off a bus and straight into a fierce haggling session with a horde of local taxi drivers gets you excited, independent travel is for you. Maybe you enjoy overcoming Spanish or indigenous language barriers and the challenges that the road throws at you, even if it means the going gets tough sometimes.

Seek discounts and save money where-ever possible
Independent travelers aren’t generally looking for comfort, they’re trying to stretch their budget as far as possible. If the idea of dormitories, packed public transport or self catering are worth the effort for an extra month on the road through Latin America, go independent.

The option for experienced Latin America travelers
Maybe your Spanish is good, or this isn’t your first time in Latin America. You’ll be familiar and comfortable with the country, and probably able to get around to the places you want. Remember though, that Latin America is a diverse place and, for example, your experiences in Mexico may not leave you well prepared for a Bolivian vacation!

The Benefits of Organized Tours in Latin America

See a lot in a short space of time
Many of us don’t get a lot of vacation days in a year, which puts more pressure on time than finances. Independent travel, while potentially cheaper, bears the burden of requiring more time to plan and move between Latin American locations without being part of organized transportation. If you don’t know how to get from one place to another there is a good chance that days will be lost through missed connections or underestimating journeys. By traveling with a tour operator you can sure they will know how to make the most of your time.

Security
On a tour, you’ll be looked after by the company who (provided they are a reputable operator) should never put you in a dangerous situation. Additionally if something unexpected occurs such as a strike or natural disaster, a professional tour operator will be much better placed and have the experience and contacts to get through. Independent travelers have only one person to look out for them - themselves.

Comfort
You’ll very rarely end up in budget accommodation with a tour - operators like to choose places that their clients will talk favorably about afterwards. Transportation should be private and comfortable, unless specifically requested otherwise! A good tour operator will be able to offer a range of tours, both shared and private as well as a wealth of hotels from your simple three star to the very best available.

Local experts with historical and cultural knowledge
Forget flicking through guidebooks or head-scratching conversations with locals where you don’t understand a word. With a good tour operator you’ll be accompanied by native speakers and guides who’ll be on hand to translate or answer any questions with expert knowledge.

An unexpected surprise - tours can work out cheaper!
Many independent travelers like to visit popular tourist sites as part of their journey, or sign up for tours to cover larger regions as part of their trip like the volcano region in Guatemala or the wine-growing regions of Argentina. Tour operators, due to booking in bulk, can get wholesale prices on many tours that work out much more expensive when independently purchased in-country. See for yourself - get in touch with a tour operator today for an obligation-free quote!

Do you prefer to travel independently or as part of a tour in Latin America? When have you felt satisfied or disappointed with your decision to travel independently or with a tour?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

How To Haggle Like A Pro In Any Latin American Market

2010-12-18T21:12:00.001-08:00

Roll your sleeves up, it’s time to make some purchases on your Latin American vacation! It could be a market stall, back-street shop or wandering vendor. Whatever the custom in your country, you are practically expected to haggle for prices or pay much more than you should. Here are some tips to help you have fun and get a good price.

Getting your haggling head on

First of all, expect prices to be flexible and don’t feel worried about asking for a discount.

• Vendors will try their luck and ask for a much higher price than normal, so you should try your luck and ask for a much lower one!
• Remember that negotiating is not arguing; you’re not aiming to get into a screaming match, but trying to find a fair price for the item that is acceptable to both parties.
• Don't be embarrassed about asking for money off! Being price savvy is not being cheap.

Preparation

As with any good negotiation, you shouldn’t walk into things cold.

• Work out how much you want to spend; haggling is the process of getting the best possible value for that amount of money.
• Research the product you want to buy - typically Latin America markets and shops are full of the same items, so you can do a price survey in a couple of other locations.
• If you can, bring someone with you who speaks the language.
• If not, bring a calculator to show numbers (the universal language) and do conversions if you are not totally familiar with the local currency
• Dress down and don’t give the impression of someone with a lot of money to spend.

Beginning the negotiation

A much as you may want to discuss price, never jump straight into it...

• Build rapport with vendor, and show an interest in their business, life and country whilst remaining polite and positive.
• If you notice something you like, never show interest. During the haggling process never appear needy and be prepared to walk away empty handed (sometimes this even helps as part of the negotiation).
• Price-wise, what is good for one is good for all - out of respect for the vendor negotiate quietly so no-one else can hear and don’t shoot off at the mouth about the deal that you just got.
• Allow the vendor to sell their product - this will relax them.
• Make sure the vendor makes the first offer, no matter how much they ask you for the opening price!

Getting down to business

OK, the first move has been made. Now comes the fun part!

• Establish their baseline price - go as low as possible in your counter-offer! Expect a dramatic response, as it’s all part of the haggling game...
• At no point in the negotiation should you mention your budget!
• Have an excuse to walk away if the haggling gets too intense - maybe you’ve got to meet friends or your tour group is waiting.
• Don’t say anything after your counter-offer until the vendor replies - silence is awkward, but golden.
• Check the quality of the product - if you can see any flaws, angle for an extra discount!

Closing the deal

It’s all agreed - counter-offers have gone back and forth and you’re both finally set

• At this point you should really commit to purchasing to honor your verbal contract. Many Latin America vendors are poor and it is unfair to commit to a price without purchasing.
• However, when the final price is fixed, there’s no reason not to try and go for low-value extras or accessories to throw in with your purchase. You should try to do some research into these before you begin your negotiation as well.

Do you have any other tips for haggling in Latin America? What are some of your haggling experiences?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

10 Reasons You Need A Latin American Vacation Right Now

2010-12-18T20:09:00.001-08:00

If you’re reading this, you are struggling with a decision. You want a vacation, probably to Latin America, but there seem to be a hundred reasons not to go. Maybe you are worried that there’s not enough money in the bank, or you are concerned about losing your job in the current economic climate if you “slack off”.

At a time like this, you need a motivator! Instead of focusing on reasons not to travel, turn things on their head. Lets look at ten great reasons to book your Latin American vacation and start getting excited!

1) For starters...having something to look forward to
It’s good to be excited in anticipation of something. Preparations, speculating what will happen, the impending freedom and escape...it will make the last couple of weeks as work so much easier!

2) Be able to step back and look at the bigger picture
A vacation is a break - a pause from routine, a chance to get away from regular life. If you leave on vacation with a problem or decision that has been bothering you for ages, you won’t have the distractions that normally prevent you from getting some head-space. With time for yourself, the decision or solution to your problem will come much easier.

3) Get the health benefits
Countless studies have proved that people who use their vacation time enjoy the benefits; reduced chances of heart attack, depression, mental fatigue...the list goes on. Think of it as a more pleasant alternative to a grinding gym routine or chewing salad for the rest of your life.

4) Come back from your vacation a different person
On vacation you’ll be exposed to countless new experiences, places and people. If you open yourself up to Latin America, it has the potential to change your world perspective. From spiritual retreats in the Sacred Valley of Peru to fireside discussions with indigenous Guatemalans, you’ll see a side of life you’d never get close to in an office cubicle.

5) Challenge yourself and become tougher for it
Travel is hard. Well, as hard as you want it to be. Everyone has their own comfort level, and travel helps you push that - maybe you never knew you could dance the tango, or could do a four day trek. You’ll come back from vacation a stronger person for the challenges that you’ve faced.

6) Put your Spanish lessons to good use
Been struggling with Spanish for a while? There’s no better motivation to practice than using your language skills in a conversation with someone who doesn’t speak English...

7) Be the envy of your friends
Don’t deny it; there’s always a kick of satisfaction when people ask you about your vacation...and you have some incredible stories to tell them. It also helps that while you were away exploring Latin America, not a great deal changed at home!

8) Get closer to the friends or family that you travel with
Real life sometimes takes away the time that we’d otherwise spend with friends and family. If you decide to travel with other people, it’ll be a wonderful opportunity to re-establish a bond. The relationship will grow from your shared experiences.

9) Discover the beauty, ridiculousness, surprise and variety of the world
Be inspired, get creative, laugh at the craziness of Latino life that you’ll encounter. Things certainly won’t be the same as your home country...

10) Return to everyday life refreshed
With all the things that your vacation has to offer, you’ll be going back to life at home feeling refreshed, energized, ready to take on the coming months - quite different from the person who left a few weeks previously!

Are you struggling with the idea of cutting loose and booking a vacation? What are your concers? What other benefits have you got from vacations in the past?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Stories from the Escape Artists - The Hall Family's Inca Adventures

2010-12-13T16:06:00.001-08:00

Altitude and children in Cusco! A heady mix…

“It’s not altitude its attitude,” my youngest says, as he runs up the narrow streets with me out of breath lagging behind. Both Him and his sister have been quite taken with the people and culture of the Andes. Their sheer excitement for adventure has made the trip varied and memorable for us all, particularly our stay at Machu Picchu.

It is as magical and captivating as I imagined, although my mental image never featured the steep terracing around the site with no barriers! Nonetheless the children were smart and cautious with a little encouragement from the grown ups.

On the second day at the site the children wanted desperately to walk to the Sun Gate steps, the entrance to the city from the Inca Trail. My son with boundless energy at 7 years led the way, followed closely by his 9-year-old sister. Towards the top of the trail many people passed us surprised to see the children let alone on this high path that clings to the mountain. It was only a matter of time when we realized why, the last section being precariously narrow with steep steps and a handrail!

“Stick to the wall and slow down!” I shouted, ever the voice of parental control. Meanwhile under my breath it was a different story. A constant muttering of, “Easy girl, you can do it” calmed my jangling nerves until we reached the top.

Our reward was a spectacular view and a gratifying sense of achievement, the children mesmerized whilst sitting on the edge of the high terrace and asking a million questions about this ancient city and civilization. If only they took this much interest in history classes at school…

Travelling with a family can be a challenge at times, but the benefits that I know the kids will get from our experiences make the effort worthwhile. I have to say that things would have been much harder without the assistance of Escaped to Latin America – they took care of all the logistics, leaving us to enjoy our vacation.

5 Latin America Visa Nightmares And How To Avoid Them

2010-12-09T21:40:00.001-08:00

There’s nothing like a pile of paperwork to take the joy out of a dream Latin American vacation.

No, correction - there’s nothing like realizing that you haven’t completed a pile of paperwork, too late on to do anything about it. No-one likes having to do it, but you need to make sure that you’ve got your visas covered. Take heed of the 5 nightmare scenarios below to make sure you don’t get caught out at the airport before your Latin American vacation has even started.

Wait, what’s a visa?
A visa, if you’re not sure, is a stamp that goes in your passport (yes, you’ll need a passport...) which allows you to visit a country for a specific duration with a specific purpose. Like tourism, for example.

Nightmare scenario number 1
You’re an American that wants to visit Brazil. Surprise! The Brazilian Government doesn’t like you...speaking in paperwork terms.

How to avoid the nightmare: Some countries will make you jump through flaming hoops in order to be able to get a simple tourist visa, whilst others will just let you show up at the airport. The rules are changing all the time, so your only option is to check out requirements for your specific vacation destination on your government’s website. It is also worth getting in touch with the embassy of your vacation country to check the latest requirements. A call or email should do it.

Nightmare scenario number 2
You’re leaving in a week - your tickets are booked and everything is arranged. That should be enough time to sort out your visa, right? Oh. It isn’t. And you can’t get a refund on those tickets, or re-book your holiday...

How to avoid the nightmare: Check the requirements for your destination country before you book anything! Time-frames vary for applications, and with thousands of people applying each week in some cases, your application could be delayed in a paper-storm. Avoid the stress, and simply apply for the visa in good time.

Nightmare scenario number 3
You’re at the airport with a nice fresh visa pasted into your passport. But they won’t let you board the aircraft because your passport is about to expire...in a few months?!

How to avoid the nightmare: Believe it or not, you need to make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of return from your trip. If the expiry date is too close to your vacation date, apply for a new passport. Make sure that you allow a few weeks for that application as well.

Nightmare scenario number 4
Ok, all set for that Brazil vacation again. You’ve got the visa, a good passport...and the accompanying paperwork? Sorry Sir/Madam, for a one-way flight you need some other proof that you’ll leave the country. We’re going to have to keep you in custody until you can produce it.

How to avoid the nightmare: Some countries go beyond needing a visa. Check requirements for all accompanying paperwork with the relevant foreign embassy. Hot topics to affect your entry could include:

requiring an onward flight ticket from the country you are entering
stamps from previous visits abroad affecting travel to new countries
medical conditions and taking medicines into a country
previous criminal convictions affecting entry eligibility
travelling with children of whom you are not the legal guardians

Nightmare scenario number 5
What a great vacation! Until you return to the airport...and a very large fee for an expired visa.

How to avoid the nightmare: Get the absolute maximum duration for your visa to avoid any problems - you can check this maximum with the relevant foreign embassy before applying. Make sure that the visa fits with your dates of travel!

Do you have any nightmare visa stories? Does any visa advice for Latin American vacationers come to mind?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

How Your Latin American Vacation Could Change Your Life

2010-12-09T21:29:00.001-08:00

With the global economy forcing us all to cut back on spending, it’s often vacations that are the first thing on the chopping block. This is a huge shame - travel is a life changing experience, recognized as one of the best ways to spend your time. Especially if you are escaping from the doom and gloom of home!

If you need a little nudge to be convinced that booking that next Latin American vacation is a worthy investment, check out the following stories of some previous clients that I’ve arranged trips for.

Realizing what is really possible
David was a nervous person, but in a moment of madness his friends persuaded him to book a mountain biking tour on Bolivia’s infamous ‘Death Road’, a couple of thousand meters descent around narrow perilous switchbacks overlooking sheer drops.

Egged on by his speedy companions and the reassurance of his bike guide, David actually ended up really pushing himself even though he was trembling like a leaf from the adrenaline. By the end of the ride he realized that the only thing holding him back was his own attitude.

I received an email from David after his return home, telling me that his trip had finally given him the boost he needed to quit his job and start a business - inspiring stuff!

Getting in touch with your spirituality
Sandra and Mark had both been struggling with their lives since their kids left home, and decided to book onto a spiritual retreat in the Sacred Valley near Cusco. The retreat was a challenging 10 day experience in an isolated setting, and both of them confronted tough personal issues as a result of the process.

However, it turned out to be worth the effort - they left the meditation centre with a much clearer idea of what they wanted from the next stage of their lives.

A journey that you finish as a different person
Pilgrimage has been around as a religious journey of self-discovery for thousands of years, but you don’t have to commit to a religion to get the benefits.

Carlos and three of his friends booked a cycle tour around the vineyards of Argentina. They had a great time travelling between some of the best vineyards in South America, but also got to know much more about themselves as a result of reflective thinking time on the road.

Friends and family were quick to notice the difference when the guys got back, and the group has since booked onto another cycle tour to allow for time away in reflection every year.

Seeing another side of life
The favelas of Rio De Janiero are known as some of the worst areas of poverty in Latin America. Julie was determined to give her time and effort to help out some of the families in the slum areas, and I arranged for her to volunteer as an English teacher as part of her vacation to Brazil.

“It was incredible,” she told me afterwards, “They were living in the worst conditions I’ve ever seen, and had nothing, but they were so happy and contented with life.”

The experience changed her perspective dramatically. “Even though it was a challenging experience for me, it made me think hard about what is important to me in life, and to be more grateful for what I have.”

What do you think is the common factor for life changing vacations? Do you remember a vacation that changed your life, and what happened?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

How to Get The Most From Your Luggage Allowance and Avoid Sneaky Charges

2010-11-28T19:23:00.001-08:00

Ever been left fuming when the smarmy check-in assistant at the airport slaps you with an excess baggage charge? You’re not alone. According to research, one in five travellers get caught out on vacation with their luggage. However, all is not lost - not only can you easily avoid paying top dollar for your cases, you can play the system at its own game. Here’s how.

1) Find out the luggage allowance rules
This will take a little bit of preparation on your part. Each airline has its own unique and frequently-changing set of rules. If you have any hope of avoiding a nasty surprise at the check-in desk, you’ll have to go to the airline’s website and find out what they are.

Check weight and size limits for check-in baggage and carry-on items.
Find out which items are prohibited and in what quantities (for example, 50ml of specific liquids).
Some airlines also permit you to check extra bags for a relatively low fixed fee. Find out restrictions and costs for this

2) Break the luggage allowance rules!
Ok, you’re up to speed with the airline restrictions and all the cunning ways that they will try and squeeze you for money. Have you considered any of the following hacks to get around the charges?

Pick some of your biggest and heaviest clothes, and put them all on. If you’ve got a jacket with lots of pockets, fill them to bursting; you don’t even have to wear it!
Family outing? Everyone has a baggage allowance, and if you check with the airline you’ll see that parents can normally combine luggage allowances with their kids.
Check in people are not always unbending - if you are a little over the weight limit, and know you are, a nice smile and an apology often gets you checked in charge free!
Some items of specialist sports equipment can enjoy free check-in (for example, golf clubs on a couple of airlines), so try stuffing other items into the equipment cases. If there are no equipment exceptions with your airline, it’s probably best to pay up-front as showing up to the airport unannounced with your specialist kit could result in some much larger fees.
Most airlines allow you a “personal item”, which can include a briefcase, camera, handbag/purse, laptop (in carry bag) or a multitude of other items. Instead of stuffing a bulky SLR camera into your case, why not just carry it on-board?

3) Avoid the luggage allowance rules
If the airline has been too cunning in planning out its rules, you’ll just have to avoid them. Preparation is key here, so take a little time to run through the following steps.

Weigh your bags to check if you are within limits. Use electric scales as manual scales can be a little inaccurate.
Avoid the whole debacle by sending your luggage ahead by courier to your destination.
Don’t pack anything that you can buy at your destination - toothpaste does exist in other parts of the world...
Leave out non-essential items by checking the weather where you are headed - maybe you don’t need that ski-jacket after all.
Prepare for the return journey - you’ll inevitably want to bring some things back from your vacation, so make some space! Pack your bags and then take out 5 items that, on brutal reflection, you really don’t need. If you need help, get someone else to pack with you and ask if you really need each item that you’re trying to cram into your suitcase.

Have you ever been caught out by luggage charges? Do you have any other advice or tips for air-travellers?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

7 Tips And Tricks To Make The Most Of Your Money On A Latin America Vacation

2010-11-20T22:41:00.001-08:00

The last thing you want after returning from a relaxing Latin American vacation is to feel the veins throbbing on your forehead when you see your bank statement.

Hidden travel costs and charges are around every corner waiting to slap you, but with a bit of preparation you can breathe a sigh of relief when you check your post-vacation account balance.

Here are 7 easy to implement money-wise tips that will save you hundreds on your next vacation.

1) Credit and Debit Cards - your plastic best friends
Credit cards are widely accepted to make payments in larger hotels, better restaurants, souvenir shops and stores, and to obtain cash advances. They are also acceptable as ‘proof of funds’ at borders. There’s also an ever-growing network of ATM machines that make it very easy to withdraw cash in local currency.

Visa is the most widely accepted for both purchases and cash advances, followed by MasterCard. American Express is not as widely accepted but also a good option.

Advances are increasingly available using ATMs (cajeros electronicos), for which Cirrus, Maestro, Plus and Delta cards may also be used, plus you can walk into many banks and arrange a higher cash advance in certain countries (Peru and Colombia for example). The rate of exchange is often the most favorable, and long bank queues can be avoided.

2) Check to see if your bank is sneaky
Before leaving you should check with your bank or credit card company whether they impose any handling charges. Make sure you have a separate note of the number and validity of your cards, as well as the phone numbers to call should they be lost or stolen.

It may also be worthwhile advising your bank that you intend to use your card abroad (and in which countries). Some banks, if they detect an irregular spending pattern, assume the card to be stolen and suspend the account. Barclays in the UK have very tight controls on its cards for example, Barclays customers beware!

Check your account carefully on return from Latin America to ascertain that payments for the card are legitimate.

3) Get the right ‘balance’ of local currency vs US dollars
It is not advisable to try to acquire Latin American currency before travelling. If a currency is
available in High Street banks or foreign exchange outlets the exchange rate is usually very
poor (nor will they be interested in buying any Latin American currency back when you return).
Strikes notwithstanding, you should be able to change dollars and / or travelers checks at the
airport or border upon arrival but try to avoid changing in the actual airport itself as the rate will be very poor. A good option would be to take a small amount of local currency from the airport ATM.

In Latin America, small denominations of US $ cash are often as readily accepted as the local currency, so keep a bundle of small bills as backup. If travelling between neighboring countries in Latin America any surplus local currencies can usually be exchanged into the next local currency, but normally only at border posts, the next big town across the border or airports, and nearly always at a loss.

To avoid getting scammed on your currency exchanges, check the Internet for the latest update on rates and write down how much to expect back in the new currency when you hand your money over.

4) Travelers Checks? Nope.
Traveler´s checks are increasingly less favored by travelers who find their use cumbersome in
comparison with bank cards. Traveler´s checks are becoming harder to cash and the charges are creeping higher.

There are a lots of alternatives, so if you you want to be smart with your money, this probably is not your best option.

5) Eat, sleep and travel local
Even though the cost of living in Latin America differs enormously between countries and can fluctuate wildly over time within a single country or region, services directed at tourists (e.g. hotels and restaurants) are more expensive.

The price of restaurant meals in Latin America varies as much as it does in Europe. At the bottom end of the scale, cheap, filling and often none-too hygienic meals can be obtained in markets, often for just a couple of dollars. This is usually the best source of regional food, but be aware of the high risk of stomach upsets. Modern snack bars, often of the fast-food variety, are much safer and cheaper, if uninspiring. A bit more up-market, you will find restaurants with pleasant decor, uniformed waiters, and menus offering both international and local dishes, but you will pay accordingly. Ask your tour operator for their suggestions.

6) Tipping - A little goes a long way (but sometimes too far)
It is impossible to give firm guidelines regarding how much to tip a provider of services in Latin
America, as the cost of living varies widely from country to country. However, it’s extremely uncomfortable to be caught out in a situation where you should or shouldn’t be tipping, especially as it is the major source of income in some jobs. But you don’t want to be taken for a ride by a crafty local - there’s nothing worse than getting scammed.

Be sure to get some advice on tipping situations in your destination - your travel agent / tour operator or a good guide book will provide you with suggestions for situations in which tipping is expected, and how much.

Whatever the amounts and situations, be sure to have to have small-denomination coins in local currency. You’re not likely to get change from tipping a large note, and foreign currency won’t be much use to the majority of people.

7) Bargaining - fight for your discount
Bargaining is normal procedure in most street and indoor markets, though no fair generalization can be made about the amount by which the price can be reduced. Shed any inhibitions you had about a pricing debate, and enjoy the negotiation!

Tourists can usually expect to have to pay more than locals. In Peru, the asking price is often 50% more than the vendor is prepared to accept, while the Otavalo Indians in Ecuador and street traders in Bolivia rarely come down more than 10%. In Guatemala, some traders will reduce their prices by 30% and others hardly at all.

Many street vendors are extremely poor, so respectfully bear this in mind when relentlessly hammering down prices.

Have you got any money-saving tips for travelling in Latin America? Do you remember when you ended up spending way too much money, or you avoided spending anything?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

6 Options For Contacting Home When Travelling Latin America - For eGeniuses And Technophobes Alike

2010-11-19T21:46:00.001-08:00

So, the Latin America vacation plans are set. Tickets are booked, packing is done, dog has been left with the neighbours. All the vaccinations have been injected (ouch), visas are arranged and there’s no sign of political unrest on the television. What have you forgotten?

Oh, that’s right - you’re leaving Mum behind, and she’s worried that you’ll never come back. And all your friends keep asking you to let them know about your adventures. How are you going to keep everyone updated?

You may be escaping the country for a well-earned Latin America vacation, but you’ll probably still need to send word back home. Here are 6 options for keeping in contact when travelling, no matter if you’re a iWhiz or you have trouble finding the on-switch on a computer.

Low-tech options for staying in contact while travelling
Get confused working a microwave? These are for you...

1) Postcards
Ahhh, postcards; the classic option. Who really needs more than a couple of sentences to say that you’re still alive and wishing that the recipient was there? You should be able to find postcards all over the place on your travels, but you can always take some with you just in case. If you’re really organized, you can even pre-fill the addresses.

Another option is to get a couple of your travel photos printed as a postcard alternative - try taking the memory card of your digital camera to a printing shop, and then scribble a message and a sending address on the back with a postage stamp!

Remember that in most places it costs more to send something in an envelope; postcards are your cheapest option.

2) Pay phones/Call centres
A long time ago in a galaxy far away, people used landlines to talk to each other. Believe it or not, this still happens and you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a payphone.

To get the best possible deal with land line calls, you should probably buy an international calling-card. Post offices, call centres or even your hotel will sell cards that give you a better rate when phoning home.

Medium-tech options for staying in contact while travelling
You’re not afraid of a couple of gadgets. Bring it on!

3) Cell phones
Most of us know how to work a cell phone these days, and probably have our own. You’ve got a couple of options for using it abroad; get an international talk plan from your current network provider, or pick up a SIM card in your destination country.

If you go down the talk-plan route, be wary of excessive call fees, and find out if you can get a tariff that allows you to call a limited selection of numbers for cheap. Also check out other network providers - now might be a good time to switch for a better deal.

To get a calling plan in your destination country, you’ll have much cheaper options for calls within the country that you’re visiting, and quite possibly when calling home. You can even use your current cell phone in some cases, but most likely you’ll need to get it unblocked. Ask your tour operator for advice on this, or any local vacation friends that you make.

Either way, text messaging will cost you a lot less than calls, so get those thumbs warmed up and practise communicating in 140 characters!

4) Email
If you don’t have an email account already, it’s easy and free to open one with companies like Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail; a Google search will give you the link to get started.

Gather email addresses from friends and family to get your mailing list ready and send them all a test message before you leave to check that all the addresses work.

If you really want to make life easier for yourself, try making a group on your email program to avoid typing all the addresses in every time; the program help files should provide instructions on how to do this.

High-tech options for staying in contact while travelling
You’re reading this on the internet after running a search for it - these options should be no problem!

5) Blogging
Blogging is an alternative to email. Instead of sending a message to someone, you post stories, photos and videos on a unique page on the internet and your friends and family can visit it to see what you’re up to.

Here are the simplest options to get a travel blog set up. All these options are free. If you’d like to be handed a travel blogging program on a plate, try websites like Matador.com or Travelblog.org.

If you’d rather choose a more personal looking blog but don’t feel like writing an essay every time you post, Tumblr is an attractive, simple option for short posting. If you’d like the whole shebang for longer posting in an easy to setup format, try Blogger.

6) Skype
You want to make free calls to anyone anywhere in the world. So what’s stopping you?

Skype is a revolutionary program that allows users to make calls over the internet completely free between computers, or very cheaply to landlines or cell phones internationally. You’ll find the program installed in most computers in Internet cafes around the globe.

You can register for a free account on the website www.skype.com but to be able to make completely free calls the person that you want to contact must have a computer with the program installed as well. Clear, simple instructions are on Skype’s website to help get you started.

What do you think is the best way to stay in touch with friends and family from abroad? What are your experiences with these options? Are there any options missing from this list?

Author: Steve Mellor - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Nicknames To Listen Out For On A Peru Vacation

2010-11-19T05:54:00.001-08:00

Did you have a nickname in school or college, or even one that has stayed with you to the present day?

In Peru people are very fond of using nicknames which will often follow them throughout life, not just at school or college. Known as ‘apodos’ or ‘motes’, nicknames may be based on where someone is from, a physical characteristic, a play on their name, a term of affection or any other number of sources.

Oy, Fatty!
Some nicknames based on physical characteristics may be seen as derogatory or even offensive in the west, but in Latin America it is often just a case of “say what you see”.

Therefore nicknames such as “gordo” (fatty or chubby), “flaco” (skinny), “negro” (black), “chino” (Chinese), "Chancho" (piggy) and “peludo” (hairy), are fairly commonplace, and do not have the same negative connotations as elsewhere. Another common example is that someone with green eyes will often be known as “El gato” meaning “The cat” due to the fact that green eyes are unusual in Latin America.

These nicknames are also often softened by using the diminutive which is done by adding “ito” or “ita” depending on whether the target is male or female, so gordo becomes gordito, flaco becomes flaquito, and so on.

Eeey, Gringo!
There are a number of nicknames based on where someone comes from in wide use in Latin America, and these can be derogatory or not. Some of these relate to people from a certain country, others for people from a certain city. Probably the best known of these is the term originally used by Mexicans for North Americans, but now widely used throughout Latin America for almost anyone from both North America and Europe which is of course “Gringo”, or the feminine version “Gringa”.

What do Latinos call other Latinos?
Others widely used in Latin America are “Porteño” for someone who hails from Buenos Aires, “Chilango” for residents of Mexico City used mainly by people from Northern Mexico. “Carioca” is for those born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, whilst "Chapin" refers to someone from Guatemala. Boricua is a term for Puerto Ricans (also called Puerto-Riqueños), whilst in Costa Rica they call each other "Ticos" and "Ticas" for men and women respectively.

On a side note, people in the United States refer to themselves as Americans but in Latin America that term can be used for anyone in the New World as of course it is all “the Americas” in both the northern and southern parts of the continent. A little care needs to be excercised with the term as well, given that it is really the indigenous peoples who were the original “Americans”.

A particularly famous nickname is that of “Che” given to the Argentine revolutionary icon Ernesto Guevara by his Cuban counterparts. This comes from an expression commonly used by Argentines in their speech. You too can be a revolutionary if you hang out in Buenos Aires for long enough...

Other commonly used terms amongst Peruvians for girls include: chulita, mamita, mamisonga, mami, bebota, nenita and nena. For boys common terms are: papito, bebo, chulito, nene, nenito and machito.

Finally there is the wonderfully inventive art form of nicknaming soccer players. Try “La pulga” (the flea), “Buitre” (vulture), “Polilla” (moth), “El Brujo” (the wizard) and “Tulipano Negro” (black tulip).

What did you just call me?
Whilst on a vacation to Latin America you may well be referred to by one or more of the nicknames described above. Whilst some are less flattering than others, the best solution is not to take offence but just go with it, as these are commonplace and most likely not meant to offend.

Have you heard any other nicknames on a Peru vacation? What would your Peruvian nickname be? Leave your comments below!

Author: Steve Mellor - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

4 Ways to Ensure a Unique Peru Vacation

2010-11-14T23:36:00.001-08:00

If you want to find out how native Peruvians live and what is important to them, you'll have to look off the beaten track. Here are some suggestions for places and activities for tourists who want to encounter the native or 'indigenous' side of the country on their Peru tour or vacation.

Ollantaytambo, a unique town in the Sacred Valley of Peru
A town in the Sacred Valley of Peru where you may come in contact with indigenous people going about their daily business is Ollantaytambo (called Ollanta by the locals). The town is laid out much the same way as it was during the time of the Incas. You travel for one and a half hours by a min-van which runs between the town and Cusco or you can take a combi from Urubamba’s bus station. Ollantaytambo is one of the rare examples of a well-touristed town which still maintains a focus on its indigenous community. Once there, you can visit the ruins which have great religious significance, as they were the last and largest structures for defense where the Incas defeated the Spaniards in battle. Tours can be led by guide or self-guided with a book that can be purchased in the market below the ruins. The tours concentrate not on the battles but on the architectural significance of the canyon and temple walls and the fountains that still function. You can also hike the hill known as Pinkullyuna which has Inca storehouses and overlooks the main ruins. The views are spectacular and the hike, climbing steeply up the valley sides, will be a workout that you won't regret.

Vicos in the central Andes of Peru
Living in ten neighborhoods in the central Andes of Peru near the city of Huarez in the community of Vicos is a group of 800 Quecha families. These families live along the highest
mountain range in Peru and use its natural reserves for their subsistence. An ecotourism project supported by the Mountain Institute has seven guesthouses next to the farmer’s houses, which were selected for their panoramic views and the diversity of the crops produced. Visitors to the area are rotated among the guesthouses with no more than three days at one site. Other attractions in this area include agro-ecotourism, hot springs and mountain climbing with Quecha guides.

Native villages near Iquitos
Near the town of Iquitos can be found several villages that remain untouched by modern development, including San Andrés, Santo Tomás and Santa Clara. Any of these towns can be reached by taxi from Iquitos. San Andrés is home to a National Park that is mostly forests in the high altitude, with high jungle, caves, rivers, reed beds and swamps. Aside from the local indigenous population, visitors will have no shortage of options to get in touch with nature. The vegetation that is predominant includes palms, cedars, mountain walnut trees, miniatures willows, ishpingos, choloques and quinas while the fauna features armadillos, vampire bats, spectacled bears, turkey hens, mountain tapir, deer, pumas, jaguars and the cavern catfish.

Helping children, a social project
Another way to meet Peruvians is through a social project. One of these is the “Casa Hogar Villa Martha” that is located in the Pacahacamc district of Lima and gives a new home of hope of a new life to physically and emotionally abandoned children. The purpose of the home is to give needy children education, protection, love and spiritual and moral support so that these children can become responsible human beings capable of taking care of themselves in the real world once they leave the home. The Villa Martha open its doors to volunteers and provides food and lodging for those who want to spend some time there helping out with the children. Peru has no shortage of social and development projects in all parts of the country - if you're visiting through a Peru tours company and you'd like to get involved, speak to your Peru tours operator for options.

When considering options for your next Peru vacation, try something different and visit a town more remote than the typical tourist locations or consider getting involved in a social project. Any of these will make your visit more unique than vacationing in the typical tourist spots.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

How To Fall In Love On Your Chile Vacation

2010-11-13T22:58:00.001-08:00

Chile is an amazing, diverse, beautiful, mind-blowing, thought-provoking country. If Chile was a person, you’d really, really want the chance to get chatting to it in a bar. However, just like breaking the ice in a bar conversation, it’s difficult to get to take the plunge and get to know a country properly. Most people make do with being a spectator, rushing between different tourist sites to take photos. But there is another way. You can end your Chile vacation knowing that you’re a different person for your travel experiences, that you’ve fallen head-over-heels in love with the country. How do you do it?

The key lies in getting to know the Chilean people as much as possible before you leave. The more that you can strike up a connection with it’s people, the more Chile will deliver. Try the following four steps before you get on a plane.

1) Break down the language barriers
Spanish is the most widely-spoken language in Chile, and you won’t have much hope of connecting with people if you don’t speak it. Tapes, books and videos are good, but no substitute for real conversation. Book yourself onto an evening or weekend class a month or two before your trip, roll your sleeves up and get chatting pronto!

2) Get some background on the Chilean mentality
A great way to get in touch with social themes and the attitude of a population as a whole is through its art. Try reading; books by some well known Chile authors such as Isabel Allende or poems by poets like Pablo Neruda are a good start. You could also get your head around some lyrics by listening to musicians such as Violeta Parra. In many examples of these people’s work you can see representations of a national mind-set that transcends words and will give you a greater affinity for Chileans.

3) Do some digging on what Chileans like
We’ve all got points of national pride and beloved topics of conversation, and the people of Chile are no different. Try subscribing to a Chilean news website - you’ll be able to find sites that discuss articles and features in English. Armed with a clear picture of what’s holding people’s attention in Chile and what Chileans love to talk about, you’ll find yourself getting into a lot more conversations.

4) Try to meet a Chilean before you leave
This can be tricky, but you’ll be able to cover all three points above at once if you can meet a Chilean living in your local spot. Try searching for international associations, language schools in which Chileans might work, or clubs and societies related to Latin America. It’ll be a great opportunity to try and bend your ear around the notoriously difficult Chilean accent...

Imagine getting into an enthusiastic conversation with a Chilean about their local history, or the state of their national football team. It’s not as hard as you think, and more rewarding than you can imagine! Chileans will open up to you if you take an interest in them and their country, and have the courage to break the ice in conversation. Tour companies can provide you with great destination opportunities on your Chile vacation, but only you can make the difference between being a sightseer and falling in love with Chile and Chileans for the rest of your life.

How do you prepare for a Chile vacation? Do you have any amazing experiences to share?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

5 Things You Must do In Medellin, Colombia

2010-11-12T21:56:00.001-08:00

If you’re either looking for options for a Colombia vacation or are trying to decide where to go for a Latin America vacation, you’ll be delighted with your decision to visit Medellin.

However, Medellin is a Colombia destination that is commonly know for a lack of tourist things to do, so why should you visit? For the lack of tourists, of course! For an opportunity to get to know a Colombian city that isn’t over-run by sightseers and where you can get a genuine feel for the country and its population, Medellin is a great option.

You’ll have a great few days in the city, which could include any of the following activities:

1) Watching a world record-sized flower parade
Medellin is known with its temperate climate as the City of Eternal Spring, making any time of year good for a visit. However, you can see the best of Medellin in early August, when the Festival of the Flowers (Fería de las Flores) is scheduled; a series of parades, concerts, speeches, craft sales and impromptu parties.

2) Rock climbing the easy (or hard) way at El Penol
A two-hour drive from Medellin is the imposing free-standing rock of El Penol. A breathless climb up some steep steps carved into the giant stone face will take you to the top, presenting some spectacular views. More adventurous types can arrange for the equipment to attempt a rock-climb.

3) Get a dose of internationally-renowned art
An internationally-known sculptor from Medellin, Fernando Botero is famous for his over-sized human figures. Visitors to Plaza Botero can see and interact with his sculptures, as well as seeing other works in the more formal setting of Museo de Antioquia.

4) Get to know the world’s biggest drug dealer
If you don’t know who Pablo Escobar is, then you probably aren’t aware that people sell illegal drugs for money. Tour operators give visitors an opportunity to get to know the hometown of the infamous Colombian, who was killed in a shootout with police in 1992. The tour will include a visit to Escobar’s grave at the local cemetery, passing by the former headquarters of his cartel (now ironically a drug rehab unit), the roof where he was shot and the collection of private planes that still litter the local airport, part of his $20 billion legacy that was eventually seized by the Colombia government.

5) Taking to the skies
If seeing Medellin and the surrounding area at street level just isn’t your thing, then tour operators offer the opportunity for paragliding flights. Those without the necessary know-how to pull strings and ride thermals can take a tandem flight, sitting back and enjoying the view while their pilot does the hard work.

A city with an interesting mix of culture, history and influences, Medellin will be the destination to give you an insight into a real working city on your Colombia vacation.

Have you visited Medellin, or done any of these activities? What were your experiences?

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Latin America / Escaped to Peru

Peru Vacation Horror Stories and How To Avoid Them

2010-11-12T20:10:00.001-08:00

To paraphrase, "It Happens". If you are traveling independently things won't always go according to plan on your Peru vacation and often the best you can hope for is that the disaster happens to someone else. However, you can always reduce your chances of being the unwilling star of an unfolding travel nightmare by learning from other people's experiences or by having a Tour Operator take the strain. If you decide to go DIY here are 4 classics horror stories and advice to help you avoid a similar fate.

Please remember that 99% of people never encounter problems but as with any foreign country, forewarned is forearmed!

Horror story #1: Peru moto-taxis - vehicles from hell
If a force of evil was ever represented through vehicles, it would probably look a lot like a moto-taxi. Many people think that the whole experience is thrilling and funny but for others it may not be. Speeding recklessly through traffic and polluting the air as much as four to five real cars, there is very little reason for their existence. To add to the fun, one unlucky traveller fell foul of a scheme where drivers partner up with thieves. A taxi drove past him slowly with two people inside; one hopped out and robbed him, afterwards jumping back into the moto-taxi which sped off.

How to avoid the horror: Tourists can avoid problems like these by traveling in authorized taxis taken from your hotel or the airport, having taxis pre-organised by your restuarants, staying clear of bad neighbourhoods and keeping valuables hidden in transit.

Horror story #2: Peru Border crossings - from the frying pan into the fire
Another classic location for scams is when crossing between countries. In a common example, one couple was scammed crossing the border from Peru to Ecuador. They were told by someone who said he was from the only bus company that could take them across the border. He added that he could help them get the bus and the company was sending people to pick up travellers from the bus stations. Instead they were led on a merry dance to a market, then to a car park. Finally the scammers were 'picked up by the police', after which the couple had to pay the scammers several hundred dollars in order to 'cover fines'.

How to avoid the horror: With the benefit of hindsight, the advice is to never trust or follow a stranger in a border area, and to make all decisions at a border slowly and cautiously, asking for opinions of multiple people. Better still have an organized crossing with a guide and your own transport.

Horror story #3: Peru Hotel Experiences - the fine art of Peruvian customer service
Arriving late one night at the bus station an arranging to stay at a hotel with a double room, private bath and toilet, a couple were treated to a fine example of the dark side of Peruvian service. They arrived at the hotel and there was no room for them. They were forced to sleep on the floor of the common area with no privacy, take showers in the filthy workers room, and use the public restroom that had no mirror, soap, or light. They complained to the management, but it was no use. The owner said she did not speak English but during the conversation hid behind her associate and translated the conversation, saying in English at the end, “You are only two, millions come here.”

How to avoid the horror: Use websites such as tripadvisor.com to check out the real stories behind the glossy hotel brochures or select a travel agent to do the work for you. If you end up having a bad experience, you can take your revenge on the same pages to warn the "millions of others". If you choose to book through a tour company that has well-established relationships with hotels, you will add that extra level of guarantee.

Horror story #4: Climbing mountains the unpleasant way
One couple hired a guide to climb the volcano Chachani near Arequipa along with two other people. The mountain has a height of 6,000 meters and people need to acclimate themselves. The guide claimed to be of an international standard. However, the climb, which should have taken eight hours took them fourteen as the guide climbed extremely slowly and did not pay attention to the two other people who were not trained to climb such a height. He did not listen to the explanation of their struggles, and was very rude. This will definately ruin your holiday!

How to avoid the horror: Ask other travellers for recommendations when selecting guides, or only hire guides from respected agencies. Also try to avoid the temptation to cut costs, especially if you are undertaking a potentially dangerous activity such as mountaineering or remote trekking. A better-paid guide will generally provide a better level of service.

Many of these problems come from independent travel, trying to move around too quickly with little preparation and trying to bring costs down to accommodate a small travel budget. A good alternative if you're short on time is to book through a tour agency with a good level of local knowledge and a strong network of trusted tourism contacts. This way, you'll only be reading Peru vacation horror stories, instead of writing them.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

5 Quirky Traditions To Watch Out For On Your Peru Vacation

2010-11-11T13:13:00.001-08:00

Random. Surprising. Frustrating. Strange.

If you've ever taken a Peru Vacation, one or all of these of these words will float into your mind sooner or later. If you were expecting to encounter life in the same form as back home, you'll be in for a shock. Why is Peru so different?

It could be thousands of years of civilizations steam-rollering over each other, each leaving their own mark on the population and its behaviours. Peru today is an anthropological melting pot with modern and colonial Spanish influence in towns and cities while in the countryside Inca and pre-Inca cultures dominate day-to-day life.

As a result of this cultural mega-mix you'll bear witness to some quirky, and often disturbing, practices on a Peru vacation. Here are 5 common ones to watch out for.

1. Two Bulls, a ladder and a cross on the roof
Something that is very common in the highlands is the placing of two ceramic bulls on the roof of the house. The roofs of traditional houses are covered with red clay tiles and as you wander the streets of cities like Cusco, Pisaq and Ollantaytambo look up and you will see many pairs of bulls sitting side by side.

The most traditional bulls come from Pukara on the altiplano between Cusco and Puno and two bulls side by side (male and female) are said to signify various things; they keep the house safe with a blessing to the “Apus” (the Inca mountain gods) and ensure wealth, health and unity of the occupants. The bulls may be combined with a ladder and a cross allowing an easy passage to heaven when the time comes. This is a curious mixture of Inca and Catholic symbology, but one that is typical of many things Peruvian.

2. Red plastic bags on sticks
As you drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas near Cusco you will see lots of red plastic bags on the end a very long bamboo sticks projecting from houses. These are signs! They say, "We sell Chicha," a maize or corn based alcoholic drink which is very (and in some cases, a little too) popular in the countryside.

On Sundays you will not only see the red signs but the effects on the people drinking Chicha as they stagger around small towns and villages mumbling and being overly friendly or abusive to tourists depending on what sort of week they have had.

It is said that, as yeast is expensive, people spit into the brew to make it ferment. To add to the fun, it is said that in some parts of Peru and Bolivia a severed dead baby´s hand is thrown in too for good measure. Make mine a double...

3. Babies shoes hanging inside or underneath the car
When you are taking a taxi, public bus or even some private cars in Peru you may notice a small shoe hanging by its laces. This is mostly done within the car, which makes sense (who wouldn't want a memento of their kid when on the job?), but sometimes logic is stretched when people hang the shoes underneath the car. This shoe is from the first born in the family and is said to bring wealth and luck to the family and aid family unity (a recurring theme it seems!).

4. Chewing Coca leaves
This is a very common habit in the countryside but you will see it in town markets too when country people come in to sell their goods. It is an Inca tradition where people build up a ball of Coca leaves in one of their cheeks and allow the resultant liquid to seep into the blood stream. The alkaloid ingredients of the Coca plant, containing around 1% actual cocaine, allow the fanatical chewers to fight fatigue, hunger and cold more easily and therefore work harder in the fields.

Many people will chew the leaves when they are not working hard, maybe when they are just sitting around chatting, and while it is not necessarily an addiction many people will go through 300 to 400 grams a week. Is that bulge in your cheek coca leaves, or are you just pleased to see me?

5. Decorating graves
When you are traveling by road you will inevitably see graveyards in nearby fields and often there are shrines at the side of the road where people have died in traffic accidents. Around special public holidays such as Todo Santos these graves are decorated by family members with many articles that the deceased used to enjoy. This ritual often happens on the birthday of the deceased person too. Things are placed on and around the grave like football related objects, model cars or dolls, photos, beer or rum bottles, favorite clothing, families may play favorite music etc.

Have you seen any of these traditions on your Peru vacation? Are there any others that you can think of? Just send us your comments in the form below:

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

The Colombian Myth Exposed - No Longer A Vacation Danger

2010-10-30T17:22:00.001-07:00

Johnny Depp waits, nervously sweating in the mid-day heat of the Colombian jungle. Hovering behind each shoulder is a heavily armed guard, ready to put a bullet in him. Across the square where he’s standing two men are talking. One of them gestures in desperation, and the other one responds by putting a gun to his head, pulling the trigger and leaving a red stain on the wall behind him as the body crumples to the ground. Depp flinches as Pablo Escobar, the most powerful drug lord in the history of the world calmly turns away from the execution and strides towards him.

It’s a scene from the popular Hollywood movie, Blow, but it could be any one of a number of films featuring Colombia. Drugs, violence, corruption. Any time Colombia comes up, it always seems to be a dangerous place that the main character of the story must brave to achieve his goal. A steady stream of TV shows like Miami Vice and movies like Scarface in popular culture have repeatedly kept us under the impression that the country is run by the main players of the international drug trade and their business. Added to the mix the history of terrorism, violence and crime that has bubbled up into the news seeming every month up until the present day, and you find yourself thinking about Colombia as the last place that you’d want to visit.

Is this a true picture of Colombia? Certainly not. Lets have a look at a couple of events over the last couple of decades that can break Colombia’s unfair reputation.

• On December 2nd, 1992 Pablo Escobar was killed in a fire-fight with Colombian police. Within a couple of years all the leaders of rival cartels were either killed or imprisoned.

• Colombia's homicide rate, for many years one of the highest in the world, has almost halved since 2002.

• In the recent decade violence in Colombia has decreased significantly. Many paramilitary groups have demobilized as part of a controversial peace process with the government, and guerrilla groups have lost control in many areas where they once dominated.

• There has been a steep decrease in reported kidnappings - from 3,700 in the year 2000 to 172 in 2009. That’s a decrease of over two thousand percent.

• Lonely Planet picked Colombia as one of their top ten world destinations for 2006. When the most popular guidebook in the world encourages you to go, it should give you a bit of confidence.

• According to the Colombia Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Colombia received 2,348,948 visitors in 2008. They say there’s safety in numbers.
Plenty of signs show that thanks to a savvy government, the dangers of Colombia are diminishing and tourists are flocking to the country to sample its diverse and beautiful attractions. If you finally kiss goodbye to the scare-stories, you could soon be enjoying the beaches and walled city of Cartagena, Medellin’s Festival of the Flowers, or any one of the country’s national parks, including the Tayrona National Nature Park on the Caribbean coast.

Nevertheless, the problems that do exist in Colombia can serve to sour your holiday if you don’t take a well-informed approach to the up-to-date state of the country. You certainly don’t want to end up in a bad place or situation through ignorance. Make sure you check your Government’s website for the latest information, or if you’re going to Colombia with a tour company, ask them what to expect or avoid to keep safe and have a happy, fulfilling Colombia vacation.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Latin America / Escaped to Peru

Mining In Chile - The Pros And Cons

2010-10-28T17:15:00.001-07:00

On 13th October 2010, the last of 33 miners trapped by an accident at the San Jose copper-gold mine near Copiapo, Chile was winched to safety. He had been at a depth of 2,300 feet below ground level. He had spent 69 days trapped underground with his companions after a shaft collapsed at the notoriously dangerous mine where the deaths of 8 miners had been reported over the last 12 years.

This high publicity incident was a catalyst for Chile’s mining regulation agency to bring the hammer down, closing 18 mines within days and scheduling a further 300 for closure. It’s easy to condemn Chilean mining as unsafe and exploitative, but what are the real pros and cons of the industry?

Pros
1) Mining is a great source of income for Chilean workers
Chilean copper mine workers are among the highest-paid miners in South America. However, inflated wages are used to entice workers to mines with poor safety records, as in the case of San Jose; mine workers were paid around 20% more for their troubles.

2) Generally Chilean mines have a good safety record
San Jose is an example of a smaller mine at which standards are known to slip. However, the larger mines generally owned by multi-nationals or the state copper mining company, Codelco, run a tighter ship.

3) Mining brings the benefits of a strong economy to Chileans
Currently enjoying a strong economic status, the population of Chile have good reason to be thankful for the mining industry. Over a third of government income due to exports come from copper alone. One notable benefit of the economic surplus from copper mining is the use of government funds to pay for reconstruction after the 2010 Chilean earthquake.

Cons
1) Inadequate government resources are available to monitor the industry
Between 2004 and 2010, the San Esteban Mining Company (owner of the San Jose mine) received 42 fines for breaching safety regulations. Why was the San Jose accident allowed to happen? Due to budget constraints, there were only three inspectors for the Atacama Region's 884 mines. Despite a very immediate public response to correct the problems that led to the San Jose disaster, the government still has much to do to bring the industry under control.

2) It isn’t all wine and roses economically
Copper is a highly volatile commodity on the international markets, experiencing increases and decreases in value of up to 50% during the 1980’s. The Chilean government have established a Stabilization Fund to put aside the surpluses of good years to cover the shortfall of others, but the unpredictability of such a core element of the entire country’s economy is a great source of risk.

3) Environmental concerns
Copper mining produces 99 tons of waste for every ton of usable material. When you consider the usable copper output of Chile, that’s a lot of waste.

It isn’t often that Latin American countries get to reap the benefits of their natural resources, and Chile is a good example of a country that turns it’s rich mineral deposits into benefits that reach the population. However, in the rush to make the most of what it’s got, Chile has lost control of the smaller players in the mining industry, and it’s any one’s guess if they will be able to rein things in to the point where accidents like San Jose are a distant memory.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

4 Peru Souvenier Ideas To Delight Your Friends and Family

2010-10-26T22:59:00.001-07:00

A Peru vacation may seem like a nice time, but really it's a high pressure situation. Waiting for you back at home are your loved ones; you know if you return empty-handed you'll be confronted by ill-concealed looks of disappointment. Friends and family need souvenirs. Fact. But they don't just want something to put down amongst all the other foreign trinkets that they've been given, they are after something special. Something that they proudly show every time they invite guests over.

You're in luck; Peru has some incredible treasures waiting to be plundered, and you can take heart that your approach will be much nicer than the Spanish 500 years ago. Here are some of your options for impressive Peru souvenirs to delight your friends and family.

Peru pottery souvenirs
One of the most popular products in the world of crafts is pottery. Pottery is the main activity of Quinua, a town that is found 25 miles from Ayacucho. The uniqueness of these works is in the quality of the red and cream colored clay that makes for highly expressive pieces. The best-known pieces are small churches, houses, chapels and bulls called the Toro de Quinua. You can also find pieces that are figures of peasant farmers or have a variety of religious themes.

The 'Chulucana' pieces of the northern jungles by the Arabelas communities are created using particular methods such as beating the clay with a paddle that give it a special appeal. They make heavy use of the black color in their jars and also create characters such as dancers and magicians as well as animals that come alive in the hand-worked clay.

Another area of Peru that is famous for its pottery is Puno, known for its pottery bull figures (toritos de Pucara). The figures were originally used during cattle branding ceremonies as a ritual element, a flask that was used by the high priest to drink a special mixture made with the blood of the cattle. Churches, country chapels and homes are also feature items made by the potters of Puno, and pieces feature images of dancers, musicians and various types of flora and fauna from the area of Lake Titicaca.

Peru stone carving souvenirs
Materials found in Puno such as basalt, granite and andesite are used for stone carvings as well as a white alabaster more commonly called Piedra de Huamanga which is found in Ayacucho. A shortage of marble and porcelain caused the birth of the Huamanga stone carvings in colonial times. At that time, the carvings were mostly of the infant Christ and other religious themes but later on, artisans found the stone to be an excellent material for carving and started creating other religious motifs as well as Nativity scenes. Figures that are rougher in nature are carved primarily as souvenirs for visitors.

Peru mask souvenirs
Masks can be purchased from the southern Andes where they are created and are used in conjunction with a dancer’ s costume. They are used primarily during festivals and depict angels, demons, Spaniards and various kinds of animals. Plaster, leather, wood, wire sheeting and tin make up the materials of masks and are as varied as their place of origin.

Peru wood carving souvenirs
The town of Molinos near Huancayo is one of the Peru’ s current wood carving centers. The primary products include utensils, decorative pieces and toys as well as animals such as dusks, horses, roosters, lions and a variety of mythical beasts.

Bring back one of these from your Peru vacation, and you'll be greeted with squeals of delight. Happy hunting!

Author: Jackie Masloff - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peruvian Soap Operas - 3 Of The Worst

2010-10-24T21:46:00.001-07:00

Televised soap operas are popular in Peru, even though they are often not produced there. Shown in the evening, they come primarily from Venezuela, Mexico and India and attract a wide following. Get in touch with the trashy side of Peru - pick up a remote control and start flicking channels for one of these three Peru soap operas.

Popular Peru soap opera #1 - Winter Sonata
A Korean soap opera, “ Winter Sonata” , whose story line is almost as complex as a Shakespearean play but nowhere near as well written, follows the blossoming of the relationship of former childhood sweethearts Joon-Sang and Yu-Jin.

Joon-Sang began his life as an introverted music student who was born out of wedlock which causes him great distress. However, one day, Joon-Sang and Yu-Jin meet on a bus to school and Joon-Sang quickly falls in love with Yu-Jin, who opens up her heart to Joon-Sang. He then gets into a car accident which causes him to suffer amnesia and erase his memory of Yu-Jin (of course). He moves to the United States with his mother and changes his name (as one would). In the meantime, everyone in South Korea is, including Yu-Jin has been told that he died.

The story (unfortunately) continues ten years later when Joon-Sang returns to Korea as a successful architect. It turns out that he works for the same firm as Yu-Jin, who is now engaged to someone else. Yu-Jim notices him and decides to postpone her engagement. The plot deepens as she tried to find out if Joon-Sang is really her lost lover...

Popular Peru soap opera #2 - Amores de Barrio Adentro
“Amores de Barrio Adentro” which is translated as “ Love Inside the Neighborhood” is a popular Venezuelan soap opera which portrays the life and political reality in a poor neighborhood.

The plot is basically a love story between a young pro-Chávez woman and a young man who is politically neutral, that is he is neither with the government nor its opposition, in a Venezuela that is highly polarized. The story depicts on the screen what has become popular in Venezuela, which is the lies of the opposition and the truth of the about the revolution, which refers to the peaceful social movement that Chávez has brought about and the opposition movement that has worked hard to remove him. The title of the program is similar to the name of the Barrio Adentro plan that Chávez undertook in 2003 to bring primary health care to the slums and poor neighborhoods of the country. In this program, close to 10,000 Cuban doctors have played a role in tending to the patients in Venezuela’ s shanty-towns.

If you want to see some creaky acting combined with shameless political propaganda, here's your winner.

Peru soap opera #3 - King of Baking, Kim Tak Goo
Inexplicably, Peruvians go potty for Korean media. This other offering, otherwise known as “ Bread, Love and Dreams”, this is South Korean drama that tells the story of how a determined young baker decides to become the best baker in all of Korea. The dreams of youth, eh?

As the eldest son of Goo Il Jong, the chairman of Geosung Food Enterprise, a company well known in the baking industry, Kim Tak Goo finds himself to be a talented baker and to be destined to succeed his father as President of the company. However, because he was the son of Il Jong’s mistress, the family plots against him so he cannot rightfully take over his inheritance. The story revolves around Tak Goo’ s resolve to become the best in the industry as he has to start his career from the beginning. Naturally, he has to overcome many trials blah blah blah.

So there you have it - 3 of the best options for watching hours of your life slide by as Korean bakers, politically indifferent (and thus probably evil) Venezuelans and conveniently forgetful architects wander in improbable and highly dramatic circles. Don't say I didn't warn you...

Author: Jackie Masloff - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Traveling Checklist - 7 Things To Do Before A Vacation To Colombia

2010-10-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

The tickets are booked; you’re finally going to Colombia! Who knows what lies in wait, but make sure you’ve done all those niggling preparations before you leave. Avoid that sinking feeling at the start of your vacation and use this useful checklist with tips to make sure you’ve got everything covered.

Vaccinations ( )
Colombia vaccination requirements may vary from person to person depending on age, allergies and other medical conditions so contact your doctor or travel clinic for the most up to date advice. If visiting the Colombian jungle you will also need a course of medication for malaria prophylaxis.

Visas ( )
Colombia visa requirements can, and do, change at short notice, so check with your National Government’s website after booking and then a couple of weeks before travelling to make sure nothing has changed.

Travel Insurance ( )
This should be included with your Colombia tour operator, but if you are travelling independently your best option is to visit an insurance comparison website to find the best deal that covers your destination and holiday requirements. Check the small print thoroughly to make sure you’ll be covered for all aspects of your holiday for the duration.

Local currency in cash ( )
It is a good idea to carry as many US dollars cash as your insurance limit will allow - it is easier to change into Colombian pesos than travelers checks and you will receive better rates of exchange. Small denominations are easier to change. Don’t get caught out by money changers, and write down or memorize a couple of simple conversions to make sure your transactions are in the right ball park and you aren’t getting ripped off.

Country safety ( )
Colombia is, contrary to popular myth, a very safe country. However, just as for anywhere in the world problems can happen, so stay informed up until your departure date by checking the US State Department or UK Foreign office websites.

Language preparation ( )
A few choice phrases will go a long way in Colombia to providing you with a unique travelling experience, so purchase a phrasebook and memorise a couple of phrases, attend a few weeks of language Spanish courses or search the Internet for a few suggestions.

Confirming your flights ( )
You’re almost ready to leave home, but don’t turn up to the airport without checking the flight to Colombia that you booked months ago! Changes happen all the time, and you can’t expect your airline to notify you. Make sure you call them 48 hours before departure to avoid a disappointed trip to the airport. If you’re travelling on various connecting flights, make sure you get confirmations for all flights to avoid being stranded mid-passage.

Done? Excellent! Pick up those suitcases and head out of the door, confident that you are prepared; next stop Colombia!

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Latin America / Escaped to Peru

4 Ways To Impress A Peruvian In A Cultural Conversation

2010-10-21T15:56:00.001-07:00

With the recent award of a Nobel Prize to Mario Vargas Llosa, a Peruvian writer, the arts and culture of Peru are now getting more attention than ever. If you are going for a vacation in Peru, there's never been a better time to impress the locals with your knowledge of Peru’s modern culture, so here are 4 of Peru’s more well-known photographers, writers and painters to get the conversation flowing.

The celebrity portrait photographer
A famous Peruvian fashion photographer is Mario Testino, who was born in 1954. Testino has done a great variety of photography including fashion narratives for Vogue, Gucci and Vanity Fair as well as celebrity shots of such people as Diana Princess of Wales along with her sons; actresses including Julia Roberts, Meg Ryan, Cameron Diaz and Gwyneth Platrow; models such as Elizabeth Hurley and Kate Moss and performers including Madonna, Lady Gaga and Janet Jackson. Since 1982, Testino has been living in London and frequently photographs the British Royal Family in addition to his work being exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery in London as well as in many galleries and museums around the world. Most recently his work is being shown in London at the Phillips de Pury & Co auction house.

The indigenous photographer
Considered the only major indigenous Latin America photographer of his time, Martín Chambi Jiménez lived from 1891 until 1973. His photographs were prolific and covered the towns and countryside of the Peruvian Andes revealing their social complexity and giving his photographs profound historic and ethnic documentary value. He photographed almost anything from weddings and fiestas to the poverty of the poor along with the public events shared by both. He was a major portrait photographer in Cusco as well as a photographer of many Peruvian landscapes which he sold primarily as postcards, a format he pioneered in Peru. The New York Museum of Modern Art held a retrospective of his work in 1979 and it later traveled to other locations around the world and inspired more international exhibitions of his work.

The Nobel Prize winning author
Born in 1936, Jorge Mario Pedro Vargas Llosa, recent winner of the Nobel Prize for literature, is a Peruvian writer, journalist, essayist and politician. He is one of the leading authors of his generation and one of Latin America’s most significant novelists and essayists. He gained international recognition as a writer in the 1960s with his novels such as “The Time of the Hero”, “The Green House” and “Conversation in the Cathedral”. He not only writes novels but across other literary genres such as journalism and literary criticism. Themes for his novels include comedies, murder mysteries, political thriller and historical novels. Several of his novels have also been made into feature films.

The painter famous for "pin-up" ladies
Famous for his paintings of pin-up girls is Alberto Vargas who lived from 1896 until 1982. He was born in Arequipa, Peru but moved to the United States in 1916, after studying art in Europe before the First World War. Early in his career he worked as an artist for the Ziegfeld Follies as well as many Hollywood studios. His fame as an artist of pin-up girls came during the Second World War when his pictures for Esquire magazine became known as the “Varga Girls”. Many World War II aircraft adapted their nose art from those Esquire pin-ups. The “Varga Girls” reappeared in Playboy magazine in the 1960s, leading to a flourishing career with major exhibitions all over the world. Vargas painted mostly with watercolor and airbrush and is considered as one of the finest artists in his genre.

You're ready! Get out there and let your Peruvian hosts know about your appreciation for their culture. Mario Vargas Llosa's Nobel Prize has created a huge amount of national pride, and your knowledge is bound to make you a few foreign friends.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

7 Things To Avoid On a Chile Vacation

2010-10-19T23:00:00.001-07:00

A Chile vacation is a good idea. The long, thin country stretches through an incredible range of variety from the bone-dry desert region of Atacama in the North to the blue-white glacial walls of Patagonia in the South. You’ll be guaranteed a wonderful, memorable experience if you take a Chile tour, or travel independently. But just like anywhere in the world, Chile’s got a couple of things that you should stay clear of. Here are some Chilean warning flags.

Mentioning where Pisco sour came from
If you’re in a Pisco growing region like the Elqui Valley, be careful what you say to proud nationalistic Chile vineyard owners. There’s been a bitter feud between Chile and its neighbour Peru for centuries as to the origins of the drink, with each country claiming that the other stole it. In fact, history indicates that Peru was the first to begin Pisco production when vines were brought over by the Spanish viceroy, but you’d do well to avoid mentioning this.

Talking about Pinochet
Ruling Chile with an iron fist in a dictatorship that ran between 1973 and 1990, General Augosto Pinochet replaced the democratically elected Salvador Allende. Human rights violations on a terrified population ensued for decades. According to Thor Halvorssen, President of the Human Rights Foundation;

“He shut down parliament, suffocated political life, banned trade unions, and made Chile his sultanate. His government disappeared 3,200 opponents, arrested 30,000 (torturing thousands of them) ... Pinochet’s name will forever be linked to the Desaparecidos, the Caravan of Death, and the institutionalized torture that took place in the Villa Grimaldi complex."

The Chilean population is still in shock from what happened only a couple of decades ago. If you want to talk about it, it may be best to wait for them to broach the topic.

Mining
An excellent prop for the strong Chile economy, mining is bringing home the bread to many tables around the country. However before you rush down a mine shaft to see what it is all about, you should check out the safety record of the mining company. On August 5th 2010, the Copiapo gold-copper mine collapsed, leaving 33 Chilean miners trapped 700 metres (2,300 feet) from the surface. The miners were eventually reached by a 624 metre drilling operation into a side-shaft, but this incident served to illustrate the poor safety record in Chilean mining, which on average costs the lives of 34 people a year, according to state regulatory agency SERNAGEOMIN.

Surfing at El Buey, Arica
Unless you are an expert, stay watching from the shore at Chile big-wave surfing break El Buey. Surfers deem it one of the most dangerous waves in the world, breaking onto an exposed sharp rock reef with strong rip-tides ready to pull you out to sea.

Avalanches at the 3 Valleys ski resort outside Santiago
Chile Skiing enthusiasts will love making fresh tracks in the back-country slopes around La Parva, El Colorado and Valle Nevado in the 3 Valleys resort network a couple of hours outside the capital. However, there is a drawback to the Chilean Andes’ great snow record; large quantities of snow bring thundering avalanches. To avoid getting trapped, check out the avalanche-prone areas with resort staff and if you are going out of bounds, always ski in a group in which everyone has their own avalanche detector and rescue equipment.

Tap Water
A welcome change from other Latin American countries, tap water in may locations in Chile is actually drinkable! However, it doesn’t taste too good and is not recommended as it is heavily chlorinated. Added to this the fact that in some rural areas the water is untreated, and you’re probably best sticking to bottled water, and avoiding ice and foods probably washed in tap water such as salads and un-skinned fruit. If you’re unsure, you can always ask the locals what to do using either your Spanish or your best miming skills.

Earthquakes
On February 7th, 2010 the central region of Chile was shaken by an earthquake that measured a massive 8.9 on the Richter Scale. However, before you get too worried about Chile perpetually shaking, such extreme phenomena are rare. The last big quake before 2010 was 50 years previous.

If you are unlucky enough to be caught in an urban area during an earthquake, the following advice is issued by the US Department of Homeland Security website:

“DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building. If outdoors, stay away from buildings, streetlights and utility wires.”

None of these things should be reason to put you off your Chile vacation. When you step off the plane or cross the border, you’ll be starting the adventure of a lifetime. With a bit of awareness and planning you can avoid these 7 things, or at least be ready to deal with them when they happen.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Mario Vargas Llosa - Peru's Nobel Prize Winner

2010-10-16T20:55:00.001-07:00

Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa has long been regarded as one of the most acclaimed writers, playwrights, essayists and literary critics in Latin America. Recently this reputation was confirmed by the prestigious 2010 Nobel Prize for Literature. This makes him one of two Latin Americans to have won the prize, alongside Colombian Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Born in Arequipa, Peru, Vargas Llosa stays true to his roots. Most of his novels take place in Peru and follow the traditional Peruvian fiction regarding social protest that exposes political corruption, violence and racial prejudices. Despite dealing with such passionate and personal topics, he is known for maintaining a lack of preaching or having to reconcile ideological propaganda with artistic aims.

After being born in Arequipa, Peru in 1936, Vargas Llosa moved to Bolivia after his parents separated, with his mother and maternal grandparents. The family returned to live in northern Peru in 1946 and then moved to Lima, Peru. He first attended military school and then studied literature and law in Lima, and afterwards Spain. During this time, he wrote several books on literary criticism as well as fiction and started to become a famous writer whose ambitious goal was to rejuvenate the Latin American novel.

During the 1960s, the country of Peru suffered from problems in the publishing industry and many Peruvian writers suffered as well. Vargas Llosa moved to France and was a Spanish teacher, journalist and broadcaster in the early 1960s. During the late 1960s, he served as an adjunct professor at many European and American universities.

It was in 1962, however, that Vargas Llosa primarily became known as a novelist with the book, “The Time of the Hero”, which takes place at one of the military academies where he had been a student. It won immediate international recognition although it was considered controversial in his own country where 1000 copies were publicly burned by Peruvian military officials.

Since then, he has written over thirty novels, plays and essays including “Conversation in the Cathedral” and the “The Green House”. He was awarded the Cervantes Prize, the Hispanic world’s most distinguished literary honor in 1995.

In addition to novels, Vargas Llosa has published a great deal of criticism and literary and political journalism. He has been a writer with an international following and has written for The New York Times, Le Monde, The Times Literary Supplement, El País, and other well-known newspapers. The book, “Diary of Iraq”, published in 2003, is a collection of his articles for El País magazine about the war in Iraq. In 2005 he travelled to Israel and Palestine with his daughter to record his impressions in the book “Israel/Palestine: Peace or War”. The Jewish community in South America had mixed reactions.

Entering the political arena, he ran to become president of Peru in 1990 but lost to Alberto Fujimori. In 1994, he was the first Latin American writer to be elected to the Spanish Academy and he took his seat there in 1996.

If you are planning a vacation to Peru or would like to get to know the country better, be sure to check out some of Mario Vargas Llosa's varied works for a unique and intimate view of the Peruvian psychology. It might help explain some of the strange things you encounter when travelling!

Author: Jon Clarke- Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Vacation Spots in the Sacred Valley near Cusco, Peru

2010-10-15T20:36:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for places to visit in Peru that have been relatively unaffected by modern development and are not too far from main tourist destinations then one of the best places to visit is the Sacred Valley. This lovely valley only 45 minutes from Cusco was an important area of settlement for the ancient Inca Civilization. If you are short on time, try prioritizing some of the following spots.

Sacsayhuaman, a military fortress
Sacsayhuaman, located just north of Cusco, is part of the Sacred Valley and demonstrates the tremendous construction skills of the Incas. Stones of up to 125 tons make up many of the buildings found in the area. Some believe that Sacsayuaman was some kind of military fortress with its shape as a zigzag resembling the open jaw of a Puma. The layout of the city of Cusco formed the body of the Puma with the Plaza de Armas being the center of the world according to Inca beliefs.

The ruins of Sacsayuaman are still impressive despite the massive destruction of the complex by the Spaniards. Many of Cusco’s style of colonial churches and mansions use stones taken from the ruins. Tourists are rewarded from the site with a good view of the city of Cusco in the valley below.

Qenko, Puca Pucara and Tambo Machay
About four miles from Sacsayhuaman is Quenko, an amphitheater and temple. Quenko was carved from huge limestone formations and the ruins are well preserved with a series of underground tunnels, galleries and carvings. The amphitheater is in the middle of the ruins and features wide seats or thrones, once thought to be used by royalty. Puca Pucara is a smaller fortress, most likely used to defend Cusco. The sacred bathing place for the rulers is located at Tambo Machay. The use of hydraulic engineering still functions and provides crystalline water from a hidden spring. The exquisite stonework of Tambo Machay counters the basic stonework of the nearby Inca farming terraces.

Pisac: Impressive Ruins and an Indigenous Market
Located about a 45 - minute journey from Cusco, the ruins of Pisac are the most impressive of all sites in the Sacred Valley. Quite a bit of hiking is required if you plan to see the entire site. There are intricate farming terraces and impressively detailed examples of stonework used in creation of some of the temples. Fitted with incredible precision, the stonework in the temples indicates the importance of the site. The city still has fully functioning irrigation systems channeled from its heights, and from here you can get a thrilling view of the valley below.

Pisac is also known for its Sunday market which is a mix of items of interest to both tourists and locals alike. Products range from wall carpets and flutes to colorful spices and fruits. Prices may be a bit higher than those you would pay in the markets of Lima so be prepared to bargain hard.

With a bit more time try to include some of the following which are very interesting indeed; Ollantaytambo ruins, Moray Inca crop circle complex and the ancient salt pans at Maras.

A short trip out of Cusco with a reputable travel agent will provide the diverse offerings of the Sacred Valley and many visits are achievable in a day-trip, so be sure not to miss them on your next Peru vacation.

Author: Jackie Maslow - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

10 Things to do in Peru besides Machu Picchu

2010-10-14T19:39:00.001-07:00

Although Machu Picchu is one of the best known and most popular tourist sites in the world, it is not the only attraction worth seeing in Peru. To add diversity, fun and a great deal of cultural wealth to your vacation, try some or all of the following ten alternatives added to Machu Picchu if you have the time and energy!

1) Arequipa and the Colca Canyon
Arequipa is known as the “White City” because of the white volcanic sillar stone used to build its churches, monasteries and beautiful homes. Marvelous semi-desert countryside surrounds its city center which is a few hours drive from the Colca Valley and Colca Canyon, reputedly the deepest of the world at 9,842 feet. The area is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventure and flights of condors, which are the world’s largest land-living birds.

2) Chiclayo – Calling All Archeologists
Chiclayo in colonial times was a simple village that sat incongruously on the road between Lambayeque and Zaña. Recent archeological discoveries of the pyramids of Túcume, the Lord of Sipán from the tomb of the Huaca Rajada and the Lord of Sicán in Batán Grande are now housed in the Sicán National Museum, making them available for all to see and marvel at. These discoveries have made Chiclayo Peru’s second destination after Cusco for archeological and historic interest.

3) The Sacred Valley – travel experiences with a spiritual twist
The main stretch of the Scared Valley of the Incas lies between the towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo and rewards visitors with a wealth of well-preserved Inca ruins, having once been the heart of the Inca Empire. Because the esteemed Urubamba River flows through the valley, you are rewarded with stunning vistas of the Andes, charming towns and many opportunities to enjoy the countryside. Those seeking adventure can go white water rafting, mountain biking or hike one of the many ancient Inca Trails in the area.

4) Huaraz and the Cordilleras
The Cordilleras are known as the White Mountain Range and sometimes the “Switzerland of South America” for their snow-capped summits, turquoise blue lagoons and spectacular Andean landscapes. Huaraz, the nearest town, is one of Peru’s oldest civilizations and is home to the splendid Huascarán National Park. The area is known to travellers for its wide range of adventure sports.

5) The Amazon River
For those who love nature and biodiversity, the virgin nature of the Amazon forests and jungles offers a full range of exuberant flora and fauna. The area has been well preserved to offer some of the richest varieties of birds and mammals on the planet as well as an abundance of amphibians, insects and reptiles. Visit the jungle in either Tambopata, Manu or Iquitos depending on your budget.

6) Lima—The Capital of Peru
As the gateway to the country, Lima is a bustling metropolis. It's historical center is filled with colonial constructions and is home to one of the best museums in South America, the Larco Herrera. Lima also offers a great variety of cultural shows, luxurious casinos and game houses and has a mouth-watering culinary tradition.

7) The Nazca Lines
The Nazca lines consist of wonderful forms of immense figure and lines that are the work of an ancient Peruvian civilization and set on a high plain in the barren desert. You must see them from the air to fully enjoy their spectacular geometries on a short flight in a light aircraft.

8) Paracas
Paracas is the destination in Peru for nature lovers and bird watchers. There is much history in the town to attract visitors in addition to the nautical sports of windsurfing, scuba diving and deep sea fishing. The nearby Ballestas Islands are not to be missed and are known as the "poor mans Galapagos islands" as the trip out is quite cheap!.

9) Trujillo
For those interested in archeological and historical tours, Trujillo offers pre-Inca locations such as Huaca de la Luna, Huaca del Sol and the ancient mud built city of Chan Chan which enable you to explore the ruins and pre-Columbian civilizations that once flourished here. Jumping forward in time, visitors can admire the downtown mansions that remind one of the profitable colonial period. Although Trujillo is Peru’s third largest city located in the northwest part of the country, it still manages to maintain its small town colonial charm.

10) Puno and Lake Titicaca
Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world containing the Uros, Taquile and Amantini Islands. As a folkloric capital of Peru, Puno offers alternatives to the tourism of archeology, living culture and nature and biodiversity tourism of Peru. Peru shares the lake with Bolivia and many people combine a visit to both countries while in the area.

When considering options for your upcoming Peru vacation, resist the temptation to just follow the crowds to Machu Picchu. Consider one of the suggestions above to have a more unique experience!

Author: Jackie Maslow - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Colombia - 6 World-Class Exports...That Are Legal

2010-10-12T22:55:00.001-07:00

It’s no secret; Colombia has a very bad reputation in the past, much of which people still feel is true today. When Colombia is mentioned in conversation, it is hard not to bring images to mind of Pablo Escobar and his drug trafficking exploits of the 70s and 80s. But it’s time for Colombia to shed these unfair associations. The country is now becoming popular as a tourist destination as the security situation improves dramatically and the level of tourist services increases, and news of the warm and welcoming friendliness of Colombians also continues to spread.

For a better idea of the things that the lovely country of Colombia has to offer, here are 6 of its better-known legal exports.

1) Colombian Literature
Winning the Nobel Prize for literature in 1982, author Gabriel Garcia Marquez is regarded as one of the most influential authors of the 20th Century. His most famous works are 100 Years Of Solitude (1967) and Love In The Time Of Cholera (1985). Pioneering a style known as magical realism, Marquez is known for creating dream-like and fantastical events that occur in everyday situations in his stories. Although not referencing any specific location in Colombia, his influences lie firmly in his home country and page-turners can get a strong sense of the essence of Colombia through his work.

2) Colombian Coffee
Known in industry circles for its high quality and distinctive flavour, Colombian coffee is some of the best in the world. Don’t take my word for it; The Speciality Coffee Association of America (SCAA) awarded the Single Origin Coffee of the Year prize to a Colombian producer in 2009.

3) Colombian Dance
Any visitor to Latin America will quickly become aware of the Cumbia dance craze that has been sweeping the continent for the last few years. Cumbia has changed over time to appeal to a more mainstream Latino audience, but its origins lie firmly in Colombia. Elsewhere in the world, salsa clubs are springing up in every town and any aspiring salsa dancer will see the roots of the dance from a visit to Cali, the “Capital of Salsa” and home to numerous Salsa World Champions.

4) Colombian Women
Proud of the reputation of their women as some of the most beautiful in the world, Colombians are quick to showcase their talents. Companies, municipalities and even prisons hold over 100 beauty contests a year, revering the good looks of their women. One universally recognized beauty is Shakira, whose songs seems to be cropping up everywhere. Her most recently globally-heard offering was the anthem for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.

5) Colombian Emeralds
The driving force behind the World’s supply of emeralds with between 50 and 95% of production, Colombia is responsible for some of the purest, largest and most beautiful gems on the planet. The largest emerald ever found in the world, “La Galacha”, was discovered in Colombia and weighed in at an impressive 172 grams.

6) Colombian Flowers
Over 70% of cut flowers imported into the United States are Colombian, which makes them world leaders and experts in the art of horticulture. Not to mention a symbol of all things romantic. Since May 1st, 1957, the town of Medellin has hosted the Festival of the Flowers,a multi-day event that culminates in a parade representing an end to the days of slavery when, instead of flowers, the slave class carried men and women on their backs up the steep hills of the town.

Hopefully these examples of famous Colombian exports will serve to break the reputation perceived by so many about Colombia, and instead present a country steeped in art, passion, beauty and romance. With these things in mind, it’s time to book a trip to one of the lesser-known and most delightful locations in Latin America, and enjoy an unforgettable Colombian Vacation.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Latin America / Escaped to Peru

Cartagena, Colombia - 4 Ways To Visit Before Leaving Home

2010-10-09T21:11:00.001-07:00

If you’re not sure what to expect when planning a trip to Colombia, you’ve already got a wide selection of handy references in popular culture to give you an impression of the place before leaving. One place that pops up time after time is Cartegena, the colonial port town that sits on the Carribean coast. If you’d like to get excited about a Colombia vacation, try any of the following four options.

Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez’ Novel
Colombia’s most famous literary export, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, spent most of his early years in Cartegena. Even though the city is not explicitly mentioned (dubbed a “Caribbean port town”) it doesn’t take a genius to see that Marquez is writing about Cartegena in Love In The Time Of Cholera, one of his most famous books that became a film adaptation in 2007. Weaving a complex narrative that twists and turns amongst the city’s “steamy and sleepy streets”, Marquez will have you ready to book your ticket, even if the novel is set between the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries.

The Mission - The Award Winning Robert De Niro Movie
Set in the 1750’s, The Mission chronicles the experiences of a Jesuit missionary in the jungles of South America. Showered with awards, The Mission won the Palme d'Or and the Academy Award for Best Cinematography. Filming took place in Cartegena and Brazil, so for an introduction to the city via an award winning film you should check this one out.

Smuggler’s Blues - Miami Vice’s Popular Episode
It’s only so long before the drug references creep into any mention of Colombia, but what better way to introduce them than through one of Miami Vice’s most popular episodes. The classic Eighties cop show goes on the road as Crockett and Tubbs are recruited by the DEA to track down a local law-enforcer who is murdering drug dealers and their families in cold blood. The episode takes its name from a song by musician Glenn Fray, who appears in the episode as a laid-back aircraft pilot, Jimmy Cole. If you can look up from your well-bitten nails, you’ll see that most of the filming takes place in Cartagena, Colombia...

The Red Herring - Romancing The Stone
A popular offering from the mid-Eighties, you’ve probably seen Robert Zemikis’ Romancing The Stone at one point or another. Kathleen Turner’s big screen break and Michael Douglas’ re-introduction to the movie-going public, the film enjoyed box office success. For those without a viewing, the film follows romantic novelist Jean Wilder who is drawn down to Colombia when her sister is held to ransom in...yup, you’ve guessed it...Cartegena, Colombia. However, before you dig out the VCR player and that old dusty tape, you should know that the majority of filming took place in Vercruz, Mexico. You’re about as likely to see a Colombian vista as you are an appearance by Indiana Jones. Stacking up the reasons not to see this movie, Douglas pronounces the name of the town Cartegeña (“Cartehenya”), as opposed to the correct “Cartehena”, a source of much annoyance amongst locals.

You may not be visiting 18th century Colombia or flying down with the boys from Miami Vice, but you can certainly afford to associate yourself with a little excitement and romance that will definitely be a part of your Colombia vacation if you decide to visit Cartagena.

Author: Jon Clarke - Escaped to Latin America / Escaped to Peru

Machu Picchu Hotels - 4 Options For Different Budgets

2010-09-26T22:57:00.001-07:00

There's only a couple of things left to organize for your long awaited Peru vacation, and hotels is one of them. Naturally, you'll be visiting Machu Picchu, so what are your options? Luckily there is a variety from which to choose to suit any budget, ranging from business class hotels to affordable hostels.

For the luxury front-row Machu Picchu experience
A deluxe hotel is the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, which is on the top of the mountain and the only hotel that is situated inside the sanctuary of the Machu Picchu citadel. Being only a few seconds away from the actual ruins, it has a one-of-a-kind position at the gate to the sanctuary. You need to take a train ride of several hours from Cusco to the town of Aguas Calientes and then a bus for a 25 minute drive up the mountain to the hotel and the ruins. The Machu Picchu Sanctuary Hotel has a casual, intimate atmosphere with 29 rooms and two suites. Some of the rooms offer partial views of the Sacred Mountain and the ruins of Machu Picchu. The hotel also has an interior garden with a selection of orchids and various flowers.

Not right next to Machu Picchu, but tip-top quality
A hotel that is considered to be of first class quality is the Hatuchay Tower Machu Picchu. It started servicing customers in December 1999, offering different services than its competitors such as satellite television, a panoramic elevator, 24-hour room service, suites with Jacuzzis, rooms with Internet coverage and international quality cuisine. High quality is demonstrated in the design of the hotel, comfortable rooms for guests, security and personalized attention.

Quirky with all the trimmings
A hotel of the superior tourist class is the La Cabaña Boutique Hotel. It is located in the middle of Aguas Calientes and offers customers a pleasant and comfortable stay. By being in the upper village close to the curative baths of Aguas Calientes, the hotel is very safe and offers privileged views. It has 20 rooms which are either small suites, double rooms or triple rooms, all of which have a common resting area at each level.

Something nice for the emptier pocket
A B&B Class hotel is the Hotel Plaza Andina Machupicchu. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, fax and Internet service, room service, a cafeteria, bazaar and laundry. The management has designed a hotel that will make your stay pleasant and unforgettable.

Good news; whatever your budget for a hotel, you will be able to find something that is suitable around Machu Picchu for your Peru vacation.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Wine In Chile - 4 Recommendations For Your Chile Wine Tour

2010-09-24T19:32:00.001-07:00

Searching for a cultured and relaxing way to visit a country, a wine tour is an excellent option. Unfortunately, few places in the world offer growing conditions suitable to sustain a wine industry extensive enough that you can tour.

With the exception of Chile, that is.

The 5th largest exporter of wine in the world, one of the best ways to get to know the country is through its wineries. Oh, and did I mention that Chilean wines cleaned up at the 2009 Decanter World Wine Awards with some 370 prizes? Judges were quoted describing Chilean wines as “some of the finest Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Cabernet blends in the world.” For once, it seems quality and quantity can co-exist. And if you’re a potential wine tourist, that puts Chile very firmly on your map. So where should you visit? You are at liberty to 'drop in' at the winery of your favourite label, but if you are looking for suggestions, try the following.

The Colchagua Valley

Possibly Chile’s most famous wine region, Colchagua Valley enjoys a balmy, Mediterranean climate matched in only a few other places on earth and the air is clear and clean. Feeding the vines, the deep sedimentary soil of the Colchagua Valley contains a mixture of fine-textured loam clay and loam silt, bordered by medium-textured volcanic soil in the foothills. The 14,038-foot Tinguiririca Volcano melt water feeds the Tinguiririca River, carrying pure water to the valley below. These conditions combine to provide a long, warm and dry growing season that produce very, very good wines.

One of the many options is a visit to the Viña Casa Silva winery, famous for its award-winning Carmenere wines. You’ll get a chance to see their unique approach to the art of wine making; all wines must be approved unanimously by a tasting panel of 5 members before any product is sent into the global wine community, including the Company’s president, his two sons and the two leading members of the Vineyard’s enological committee (wine technicians).

The Curico Valley

A good base from which to explore the fruits of the Valley is the city of Curicó. Despite destruction by an earthquake in 1928, is considered one of Chile´s most cultured and provincial towns, perfect for any discerning wine-hunter. A short distance outside of the city is Alta Cima – a family-run winery that produces some of the region´s greatest fine wine. With decades of experience in wine-making, importing and exporting, you’ll get to see the result of years’ work meticulously refining quality.

The Casablanca Valley

A relatively cool and largely coastal region, Casablanca is known for producing classy Chardonnay and world class Sauvignon Blanc. It is also being planted with Pinot Noir in an attempt to exploit its cool climate conditions with one of the hottest grape varieties amongst knowledgeable wine consumers.

To get a sneaky behind-the-scenes peek at the some of the top wines coming out of Chile, do what you can to pay a visit to the vines of Casa Lapostolle, or sample the work of winemaker Ignacio Recabarren at the Casablanca vineyards.

The Chilean wine scene unfolds over 5 principal regions, all of which contain a selection of valleys with enviable growing conditions. With the assistance of a tour company, you can pick and choose visits to your favourite spots, and link them all together as you like; flying, horseback riding, bicycle...it’s your Chilean wine vacation, so its your decision.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Four Incredible Peru Travel Experiences

2010-09-23T21:45:00.001-07:00

There are innumerable travel experiences that one can have visiting Peru from the dry coastal regions to the towering Andes containing Machu Picchu, all offering a unique, unforgettable vacation. This article will describe four fantastic travel experiences that you can have in Peru.

Exploring the legacy of the Incas
Your first experience is a tour of the heart of Inca territory. It starts in the city of Cusco, which is considered an impressive city with its mix of Spanish colonial and Inca architecture. It was once the center of the Inca Empire that covered what is now Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia and the southern part of Colombia. You take a tour of this city before heading to the depths of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. While in the Sacred Valley, you will ascend the ruins of the military outpost of Ollantaytambo and meander through the market of Pisac. Once done exploring the Sacred Valley, the next stop is Aguas Calientas and the wonders of Machu Picchu. Due to its almost impossible location, Machu Picchu was protected from Spanish conquest. It remains as one of the best-preserved and impressive reflections of the Inca Empire.

Riding high in the Mountain ranges Of Peru
A trip to the Peruvian Andes has many awe-inspiring and magical sites. This trip starts in Arequipa, known as “the White City” and then travels to Colca Canyon to enjoy the hot springs and witness the flying condors and incredible panoramas. Then it is off to Puno to tour the wonderful and magnificent Lake Titicaca, a sacred place for the Inca civilization; Incan mythology tell us that Manco Capac, the first Incan king, was born here. According to Incan legend, this is the place from which the world was created, when the god Viracocha came out of the lake and created the sun, the stars and the first people. You will have many places to discover on the shores of Lake Titicaca, as well as on the islands that lie within the lake.

Jungle boogie
The Peruvian Amazon is also a place not to miss. The Amazon is a beautiful rainforest displaying an intricate balance of life with a lush ecosystem. When you visit the Amazon, you will encounter some of the thousands of species of flora and fauna that live there.

Ancient culture and impressive wildlife; the coast of Peru
Another incredible tour is to visit the Nazca Lines, Paracas National Park and the Ballestas Islands. Starting from Paracas, it is one of the best marine reserves in the world with the highest concentration of marine birds. This is followed by a motorboat excursion to the Ballestas Islands which have numerous arches and caves created by erosion that provide shelter for thousands of seabirds and sea lions. The islands have been called the “Galapagos of Peru”. Once you have visited the islands, you can travel by air over the famous Nazca lines, huge parallel and geometric line figures, as well as designs such as an enormous monkey, a dog, a bird with a wing span of over 100 meters, a spider and a tree cut into the stony desert. It is thought that these lines are representative of a vast astronomical pre-Inca calendar.

Between Cusco, Mach Picchu, the Andes, the Amazon, the Nazca lines and the Ballestas Islands, you will have found some incredible Peruvian travel experiences that will be long remembered.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Inspiring Chile Vacation Ideas

2010-09-20T18:26:00.001-07:00

You have your reasons, but you want to be truly inspired by your next vacation. Not just returning home with a camera full of photos, this trip should leave you feeling different to when you went away. A Chile vacation is the thing that you are looking for. 4300 kilometres from top to bottom and averaging 175 kilometres wide, Chile gives the appearance of being squeezed into the sea by Argentina. Don’t let the dimensions fool you; depending on where you go, the territories of Chile present a range of options from arid deserts in the North to the outer reaches of Polynesian islands to the grey-white walls of glaciers in Antarctica. Try any of the following three options for a Chile tour to be inspired.

1) Atacama - The driest place on Earth
Long, bone-dry valleys running into the middle-distance of nowhere, the Atacama desert will inspire you with its long expansive stretches of nothingness. Blocked from moisture on both sides by the Andes mountains and by the Chilean Coast Range, Atacama is virtually sterile and the sense of remoteness that this gives the visitor inspires a pause for thought. Rich in minerals, the desert is covered with approximately 170 abandoned nitrate mining towns, almost all of which have been shut down. Industry still continues however, demonstrated by the Copiapó mining accident on August 5th 2010, which left 33 miners trapped 700 metres underground. Industry in conflict with barren landscapes at thousands of metres above sea level; worth a look, no?

2) Colchagua Valley - The source of superb wine
Brought over by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century and welcoming French varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the 18th century, the Chilean wine scene entered a renaissance in the 1980’s with the introduction of stainless steel tanks for fermentation and oak barrels for aging. With the scientific advances of the wine industry, wineries such as Viña La Playa are making the most of the conditions about 80 miles southwest of Santiago in the Colchagua Valley.

The Valley enjoys a balmy, Mediterranean climate matched in only a few other places on earth and the air is clear and clean. Feeding the vines, the deep sedimentary soil of the Colchagua Valley contains a mixture of fine-textured loam clay and loam silt, bordered by medium-textured volcanic soil in the foothills. The 14,038-foot Tinguiririca Volcano melt water feeds the Tinguiririca River, carrying pure water to the valley below. These conditions combine to provide a long, warm and dry growing season that produce very, very good wines. If you want evidence, try this; in Wine Spectator's annual Top 100 list, Colchagua wines were #3 in the world in 2003, and #2 in 2004. In search of an inspiring wine, how does Colchagua sound for delivering the goods?

3) Rapa Nui - Life lessons from the ‘Navel of the World’
Most of us are aware of the tall, slender grey faces of the moai statues of Easter Island, the southeastern most point of the Polynesian triangle. The 887 statues that litter the island serve as the basis for a tragic history of fierce tribal war that brought a civilization to an end. The imposing gallery of stone statues only form a moment of Rapa Nui’s history, which also tells of famines, epidemics, civil war, slave raids and colonialism. Despite a tiny population, Rapa Nui will give you a thought-provoking look at the rise, fall and clashes of civilizations through the landmarks and people that you see and meet on your vacation.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Places in Peru You Have Never Heard of

2010-09-19T13:55:00.001-07:00

You are planning a Peru vacation, but you don't want to go where everybody else does. Yes, Machu Picchu is an obvious choice, yes you can visit Colca Canyon to see Condors and yes, the Nazca lines are fantastic. But what about the lesser-known parts of Peru, the unique places where you'll have some real stories to tell when you get back from your adventures? Try these three Peru vacation spots for size.

The Northern Coastline of Peru – Plenty Of Options
Incredible, but true; hardly anyone goes up from Lima. One place in Peru that remains unknown is the northernmost part of the country near Ecuador where there are some of the finest beach resorts in the world. The accommodation ranges from quaint bed and breakfast places to first class hotels close to the beach with all the modern facilities. These provide access to the twenty-six northern pyramids of Tucume, built of adobe (earth bricks). Although time has taken its toll on the pyramids, the site still retains a sense of its original glory and it can be seen from numerous viewpoints for many miles. A small museum is also on-site.

One Of The Best Archeological Finds In The Americas, Still Unknown
In the area around Lambayeque is the 'Lord of Sipan' Museum, which was discovered in the late 1980s when a robber was arrested by the police as he was trying to sell gold from the tomb of the Lord of Sipan. The exhibits at the museum include the most important archeological remains of the Moche Culture as well as the amazing gold, silver and pottery artifacts that were discovered during the excavation of the Tombs of the Lord of Sipan, who was thought to have been a Moche government leader. As one of the most magnificent archeological finds in the Americas, this exhibit can take two to three days to see in its entirety.

Beach Living In The North
Among the resorts in the area to see are the Las Arenas de Mancora hotel in Mancora and the Punta Sal Club Resort in Tumbes. Situated on the warm northern Peruvian coast, the Las Arenas de Mancora hotel is surrounded by massive palm trees and gardens. It offers a five-star restaurant that serves traditional Peruvian gourmet dishes with an extensive international menu. In addition to accommodation, the Punta Sal Club include suites, bungalows and rooms right on the beach. One of the main activities to indulge in at the hotel is deep-sea fishing. Their fishing vessel is fully equipped with a GPS fish finder system, full fishing equipment and a highly-trained crew. The fish which can be caught in this area include striped and black marlin, big eye, dorado and grouper.

Far-Away Jungle Paradise
The last place that is little heard of and among the least visited in Peru is the largest natural reserve of Peru, the Pacaya-Samiria, located in the wilderness north of the Amazon jungle. Although it is remote, it is extremely beautiful with endless waterways. It is named by the two rivers, Pacaya and Samiria, which flow through it. The waterways are designed for riverboat cruises and wetlands make it a lesser-known jungle spot for nature tourism. Visitors to the area can also observe nature, camp and make fishing tours as well as explore the jungle which covers the area. Watching birds and animal life in the early morning or at dusk when the jungle is its liveliest is made possible by canopy walkways. Viewing from the highest possible level also reveals the layers of the Amazon eco-system.

Take advantage of the quieter and lesser-known spots for your upcoming Peru vacation, and book a tour that will take you away from the crowds of the south

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Tamarindo - 5 Things To Do At The Most Popular Beach - Town For A Costa Rica Vacation

2010-09-16T22:19:00.001-07:00

You’re searching for a white-sand beach for your Costa Rica vacation where you are spoiled for choice with activities. A place where you can be surrounded by nature in all its forms, and fill your day doing things that justify putting your feet up and relaxing at the end of it. If this sounds like your idea of a good break, you will probably enjoy Tamarindo to the point where you don’t want to leave. Here are some suggestions for ways to pass your vacation time in Tamarindo’s tropical paradise.

1) Sport fishing in Tamarindo
The Marlin, Saltfish and Giant Tuna catches from the beaches of Tamarindo are legendary, and deep blue-water, reef and shoreline fishing are all readily available from a variety of local fleets for the eager fisherman. If a dedicated sport-fishing holiday is not what you are after, hand-line fishing in front of your beach-side hotel is also popular if you want to pass a lazy day at the end of a line. Owing to the successes of fishermen over the years thanks to the impressive quantity of fish in the water, you’ll almost certainly be enjoying your catch in one of the beach-front restaurants, who are happy to grill your fish for you to enjoy on request.

2) Surfing in Tamarindo
Wobbly beginner or wave-carving expert, the beaches of Tamarindo have something for you. Playa Tamarindo is a long beach with waves that form near the river-estuary. The majority of the beach is great for learning, but options exist for advanced surfers at Pico Pequeño, a rocky point, and El Estero near the river-mouth. Currents can be strong, especially on a falling tide, so keep an eye on the shore to check your position and avoid a long board-carrying walk. the big swells roll in around Novermber and December and can produce waves up to 12 feet; an opportunity for most of us to get out of the water and watch the professionals do their thing...

3) Eco-touring in Tamarindo
Sitting in an incredible location between mangroves and the beaches of Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande and Playa Langosta that forms part of the national park network of Costa Rica, visitors will not be short of opportunities to get back to nature. Beaches Grande and Langosta are host to Giant Leather-back Turtle nesting sites, and if you are lucky enough to arrive between October and March you can take a special tour to see these huge creatures as they arrive under the cover of darkness to lay and bury their eggs. If the sound of exploring mangroves on locally built skiffs sounds good to you, you’ll have the opportunity to see a huge range of creatures, including monkeys, Cayman and exotic birds as you motor around the network of waterways.

4) Diving in Tamarindo
It doesn’t matter if you are a dive virgin or spend most of your time underwater; Tamarindo has options for everyone, offering dive courses and tours to open a window into a part of the marine-world of the Pacific teeming with life. Dive spots such as the Catalina Islands offer a stunning variety of sea life such as giant manta rays, spotted eagle rays, moray eels, and white-tip reef sharks. If diving is your reason for a trip abroad, cruises to the Bat Islands or to the famous Coco Island will put a stop to your compressed-air cravings.

5) Watching the sunset in Tamarindo
Everyday during the wet season between May and October, showers build up onshore and then head out to sea, creating some of the most spectacular sunsets that you are likely to witness. What better way to end a day’s surfing, fishing, diving or eco-touring then watching the sky catch fire with a drink in hand?

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Peru Vacations - How To Get Into A Conversation About Sports In Peru

2010-09-16T13:19:00.001-07:00

As with many countries, Peru holds its top atheletes in high esteem. Every major bank wants them to endorse their products, and you'll frequently see a toned athelete sitting uncomfortably in the spotlight on television, being interviewed by a selection of cheery presenters. If you're heading to Peru for a vaction, here are some well known atheletes that you can discuss with a proud Peruvian, who will probably be delighted that you know about some of their greatest achievers.

The Swimmer
Juan Carlos Bello is more popularly known as Johnny Bello for his expertise in swimming. He learned how to swim at the age of seven and from 1965 to 1973 dominated the four major styles of swimming, winning many medals in South American and Pan-American swimming contests. He participated in the Olympics in Mexico in 1968 and in Munich in 1972. He was also a sports leader, being president of the Peruvian Sports Federation Swimming Club and is currently Vice-President of the Peruvian Sports Swimming Federation, in charge of the Committee on Open Water Swimming. He ran for the presidency of the Peruvian Olympic Committee in 2009.

The Footballer
Teofilo Cubillas, a former player of football (or soccer) is widely regarded as one of South America’s best football players of all time. Having excellent technical ability, Cubillas played midfield and had a powerful shot with which he used to terrify goalkeepers. He was known as a free kick specialist, and scored 515 goals in his entire career, placing him seventh in the ranking of the World Cup all-time scorers with ten World Cup goals. A poll by the IFFFHS voted him the 48th best football player of the twentieth century and Pele named him as one of the 125 greatest living football players in his 2004 FIFA list. In February 2008 the All Star First team of South America selected him as a member of the previous 50 years.

The Volleyball Player
Volleyball is a big deal in Peru, and Cecilia Tait is known as Peru’s most talented volleyball player and one of the best players in the history of volleyball. She made her debut in the sport at the age of 18 at the Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She also participated with the Peruvian national team in three Summer Olympics, finishing fourth in 1984 and won a silver medal at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. At the World Championship in 1982 she won a silver medal and added a bronze to her trophy cabinet in 1986. In 2005, she was inducted into the Volleyball Hall of Fame and in 2000, she was elected to Congress in Peru.

The Surfer
Peru's location as a world class surfing destination was confirmed when it produced a surfing World Champion. Sofía Mulánovich Aljovín, born in Lima, is the first Peruvian surfer ever to win an ASP event, let alone the World Title. On 27th July 2007, she was inducted into the Surfers Hall of Fame for it's 10th Anniversary Celebrations, the first South American to have achieved this goal.

With a few of these famous names under your belt, you should be able to relate to the majority of sports aficionados and get into some interesting conversations, giving you a great opportunity to get a unique, insiders point of view on your Peru Vacation.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Costa Rica - What Is Pura Vida And How Will It Affect Your Vacation?

2010-09-13T21:14:00.001-07:00

You’re probably very excited. You’ve got your trip to Costa Rica planned, and images of white sand beaches, national reserves stuffed with stunning wildlife and waterfalls deep in tropical jungles are keeping you awake at night. There’s just one thing nagging at you; every time you mention to someone who has been to Costa Rica about your vacation plans, they mention “Pura Vida”. What does it mean, and how will it affect your trip?

“Pura vida” is a popular slang term that literally means “Pure life” and it pops up everywhere in Costa-Rican conversation. Its applications and meanings are diverse; it can be used as a greeting, expression of polite indifference, statement of thanks, or a farewell. It is a strong representation of a philosophy that is not easily explained, but here are some of the effects that you’ll probably see on your Costa Rica vacation; draw your own conclusions as to if it is a good thing or not...

Enjoying life slowly
If you were hoping for a punctual bus service, or a country running efficiently like a well oiled machine, Costa Rica will be a grave disappointment. While many foreigners interpret the pace of life in Costa Rica as a culture steeped in leisure or idleness, the difference is simply that the locals (or Ticos) have concluded that life is best appreciated lived at a slower pace. After a couple of weeks in Costa Rica away from the break-neck pace of life back at home, you’ll start to see their point of view!

Overcoming difficulties with good spirits
They may live slow, but the people of Costa-Rica very rarely give up. When faced with a problem, they will steadily search for a solution. The most inspiring part of it is their attitude, a blend of optimism and positivity, that perseveres for the duration of their difficulties, no matter how long they last. Underneath this inspiring approach is the fundamental desire for the people of Costa Rica to appreciate what they have, as opposed to lamenting what they lack.

Celebrating good fortune of all shapes and sizes
An integral part of enjoying each day and moment as it comes, the people of Costa-Rica are quick to appreciate those moments when life throws them something special. It could be when a fish bites the end of their line or when a close relative or friend recovers from illness, but each time fate smiles, a tico is quick to smile back.

Spreading good cheer
The mindset and attitude of pura vida is infectious; you’ll hear it everywhere you go, used in almost any situation, and it is accompanied with a smile, friendly nod, or gesture that sells you the joy of the moment and the desire to share it with others.

If you go to Costa Rica a sceptic, you’ll probably leave wondering why the rest of the World can’t accept the Tico mindset a little more easily. Who know; after a Costa Rica vacation, maybe you could find yourself spreading a little joy to friends and family back home. Pura vida!

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Thermal Springs in Peru - 3 Places to Unwind on Vacation

2010-09-13T09:49:00.001-07:00

Wherever there is hot, recently formed igneous rock and volcanic activity, there are thermal springs. Sometimes resort areas or spas have developed around these areas offering mud baths, mineral water baths and massages while others have remained in their natural state. Either way, thermal springs offer travelers a respite from their busy days of vacation. Here are three of the best know Peruvian thermal springs for you to consider if you want to enjoy a relaxing bath heated by mother nature.

Spa fit for a King
One of the more well-known thermal springs are the Inca Baths of Cajamarca. The Baths are located about 4 miles east of the city of Cajamarca, which is 8,900 feet above sea level and has a population of 135,000 people. The springs are historically important in that they were greatly enjoyed by the Inca Emperor Atahualpa around the time when the Spanish Conquistadores arrived. The baths have remained relatively intact, with stone canals and fountains dating back to the time of the Incas. The waters themselves contain a variety of minerals and at are a temperature of 70°F. New pools have been built for both individuals and groups, designed for visitors. Comments about the waters revolve around their medicinal and healing powers and they are considered a good way to treat some bone diseases, as well as to relax.

A relaxing end to the Inca Trail
Probably the most famous of the thermal springs in Peru are located in the town of Aguas Calientes, the city whose name means “hot waters”, which comes from the natural, sulfur-heated waters in the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. The waters emerge from the rocky subsoil at a temperature of between 38°C and 46°C and appear to be quite dirty due to the amount of sulfur present. They have long been considered to have medicinal properties and have become so popular that a basic infrastructure of pools and changing rooms along with a cafeteria have been set up for enjoying the waters, particularly if one has just completed the Inca Trail and explored the mysteries of Machu Picchu.

At the bottom of the World's second deepest canyon - a thermal bath
The thermal springs of the Colca Valley and Canyon are located in various places near to the town of Chivay along the Colca River. Surrounded by mountains affording lovely views, these springs consist of natural and man-made pools built of stone which make good use of the rocky formations of the riverbed and are fed by a spring which has a surface temperature of 80°C. The pools themselves are not as hot with temperatures of between 36°C and 39°C, depending on the pool. Because of the high lithium content of the pools, the waters are found to be very relaxing.

There are many other thermal springs in Peru, many which can be easily visited on your standard a Peru vacation package. Some of the sites are more remote however and require extra efforts to get to see them and enjoy a warm, soothing dip. Even a quick holiday to Peru will provide the chance to enjoy rest and relaxation for the weary traveller, so don't forget to pack your bathing suit when packing for your next trip!

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Choquequirao - The Secret Alternative to Machu Picchu

2010-09-11T09:38:00.001-07:00

As the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu shakes under the footsteps of thousands of tourists daily, another equally impressive Inca ruin is lying silently in wait for hoardes of tourists to descend. Choquequirao is a Quecha word for “cradle of gold” and is located on a leveled hilltop 1,750 meters above the Apurimac River, surrounded by the towering snow-capped peaks of Yanama, Ampay, Choquetacarpo, Pumasillo and Panta. It consists of ruins of buildings and terraces from the ancient Inca civilization. It is over 4,000 acres in size and 30 to 40 percent of it is excavated. It can only be reached by foot and is a two-day hike from the trailhead, several hours by bus from Cusco.

Discovery of the site
Juan Arias Diaz first visited Choquequirao in 1710 but its existence was not revealed to the world until 1768 by Cosme Bueno. The revelation of Choquequirao was ignored at the time and then rediscovered in 1834 by Eugene de Santiges. The site was mapped for the first time in 1837 by Leonce Agrand but his maps were also ignored. It was not until 1909 when Hiram Bingham, the discoverer of Machu Picchu, sought out Choquequirao that the site got the attention of the world. The 1970s saw the first excavations of the site.

An overview of the site
The site consists of a central square around which are some administrative buildings, a temple and the living quarters of aristocrats. A small village surrounds the central square where the living quarters of the lower classes are grouped together. Water channels, aqueducts and water springs also fill the site. Most of the buildings have been well preserved and restored with care and the careful restoration of the site is an ongoing process.

Construction of the site began during the reign of the Inca king Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, and he transformed the site into the empire Tawantinsuyu, or the Inca Empire. When Cusco was under siege in 1535, the site was the last fortress of refuge and resistance of the Sons of the Sun who fled Cusco. They decided to take refuge in Choquequirao, led by Manco Inca Yupanqui.

Choquequirao was most likely one of the entrance check points to the Vilcabamba region and served political, social and economic functions as an important administrative hub. Its urban design is very much like the layout of an imperial capital, with ceremonial buildings dedicated to the sun, water, earth and other divinities, small houses for artisans and larger and grander ones for administrators, and large buildings and warehouses with farming terraces for the local people. The ceremonial area, which is 700 meters in size, is 65 meters below the elevated area of the main square. Not only was it used as an entrance check point to the Vilcabamba area, but also as a religious and cultural center. That the ruins have many double jamb niches doorways demonstrates that the region was held in high status. It also served as an important link between the city of Cusco and the Amazon region.

Access to Choquequirao
Because of the remoteness and inaccessibility of the site relatively few visitors had been to it until recent years when COPESCO built a bridge for foot traffic across the Apurimac River, which is below Choquequirao. It remains rarely visited in comparison to the thousands of people a month that visit Machu Picchu, although with new regulations designed for the Inca Trail, Choquequirao is becoming a great alternative for the serious hiker. Ensure that Choquequirao is on your list of places to visit on your next trip to Peru so that you get there ahead of the crowds!

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America

Brazilian Soccer - 4 Reasons Why Their National Team Is Better Than Yours

2010-09-09T12:51:00.001-07:00

If you know anything about football, or soccer as it is often known in North America, you’ll know that the national team to beat is Brazil. Known for its fast flowing nature, trickery and attacking style, the Brazilian squad has been terrifying oppositions in World Cup matches for decades. If you were in any doubt about the chances of your national squad beating Brazil, these 4 points should put you straight.

1) Brazilians want to win more than your team
Football in Brazil is close to a religion, and everyone from players to managers to spectators take it very, very seriously. To illustrate, three hours before an international match, you’ll be out of options to deposit a cheque because all the banks close, allowing their employees to prepare for the game. Brazilians also accept nothing less than a win as a result, viewing a draw as a loss. Up against that attitude, you won’t stand much of a chance on the pitch or supporting from the sidelines.

2) Brazilians have the best players in the World
The ultra-rich European leagues are widely regarded as the best in the World, and they are flooded with Brazilians; 600 players to be exact. Superstars such as Robinho, Ronaldinho and Kaka dominate the English, Italian and Spanish leagues, commanding huge salaries and advertising contracts with big name sporting brands. To crown it all, the best player in the history of soccer is a Brazilian. Pele (Also known as the slightly less memorable Edison Arantes do Nascimento) was voted number one in the 2000 FIFA “Player of the Century” poll, amongst numerous other player and fan awards. Scoring an incredible 1281 goals in 1363 games, his talent is qualified by more than just opinion.

3) The Brazilian national team is a priority
As salaries for European teams climb higher, league teams are frequently accused of prioritising “club over country”, with players encouraged by their coaches to focus on international competitions such as the UEFA cup more than those of the national squad, such as the World Cup. Not so in Brazil. Brazilian players have the tendency to view competing in the higher standard of the European leagues as an opportunity to develop and refine their skills in order to stand a better chance for national selection.

4) The Brazilian team is the most successful in the World
The statistics speak for themselves; with 5 World cup wins, Brazil are the most prolific national team on the planet. They are the only team to have qualified for every single World Cup, and their dominance of Latin American football is demonstrated by their successful retention of the Copa America in 2007.

Next time you jog out onto a pitch to play against the Brazilian team (hey, it could happen!) or sit down to watch an international match, be sparing on the optimism; you’ll be betting against some of the most competent and accomplished players on the planet.

Author: Gary Sargent - Escaped to Peru / Escaped to Latin America