Mima/All, the 'extra' info that arrived just before I came away did not, as far as I remember, give much idea as to how much currency to bring. Its pretty clear that one should take $US and exchange locally, and perhaps top up with an ATM, but what we need before souvenirs.....no idea. Hopefully someone....anyone know anyone who has been there recently?....will step forward.
On the health front there is an interesting read here.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2014/chapter-4-select-destinations/peru-cuzco-machu-picchu
It is from the USA but I think American humans react like British ones. When I lived in the US and travelled extensively I always found it useful. I notice it says:
"There is no malaria risk for travelers visiting only Lima and vicinity, coastal areas south of Lima, or the popular highland tourist areas (Cuzco, Machu Picchu, and Lake Titicaca). The malaria-endemic areas for most tourists are the neotropical rainforests of the Amazon, with 2 major destinations (see Map 3-38). "
I am not going to the Amazon so my interest stops after the 11 day trip.
I asked a friend here in Austria, a Dr with qualifications in high altitude medecine, about our abruptish arrival at a reasonably high altitude. Most of the advice (get there slowly, sleep at a lower altitude) we cant comply with because of the way JustYou has constructed the trip, the geography, and we only have 11 days. What we can do is drink plenty but keep off the booze. Having said that provided we have moderate exercise before we go we should be fine bar a headache perhaps. Thats my understanding anyway....no gaurantees.
My main concern is tummy bugs. Usual boring precautions for that.
I look forward to meeting you all.
