Hey, I'm a 22 year old woman about to travel through Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina for 6 weeks in September. I felt confident at first, but now everyone is telling me how dangerous it will be and how much I have to worry. Where I do feel like these people are exaggerating, I would love some advice from people who know--mainly how to play it safe, things to look out for, any warnings for any of these countries in particular, and more. Any great advice you all could give me would be wonderful, I have travel a lot in Europe but never in South America and never alone. Please help!
Premium account Joined: Aug 03 Points: 16229 Posts: 177
Posted: 2008-07-21 23:06:00
I traveled through Peru with a friend a couple of years ago. We are both women, both blond, but in our 40s. We encountered quite a bit of "Machismo" but no real danger. The only time we really felt unsafe was in Lima. It is also the only place in which we were pinched or followed.
You have to master that tough balance between not responding to it and not being rude. "Me encuentro en una prisa" (I'm in a hurry) works well. Ignore overt comments. Wear a wedding band - invest in a cheap plain band but wear it. Dress appropriately - I am always surprised at the number of women who don't. If you are staying in a hostel or hotel, let the desk know when to expect you to return and give them your cellphone number - tell them to call if you don't come back when expected. All common sense stuff really.
Eire
--- Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.
For my wife and I, Argentina was just like travelling in Europe if you stay on the main "Lonely Planet locations. Peru was fine although you get a lot of hassle in Cusco, the kick off point for Matchu Pitchu. For us Bolivia was the true "South America" where we met many indigenous American Indians, ladies in bowler hats etc. Don't miss lake Titicaca.
Take care in all large towns, keep a small digital camera well concealed, no jewellery( except a wedding ring),a cheap watch and scruffy clothes. Avoid using taxis but if you do never share and get out as soon as a stranger gets in. Don't necessarily trust the police either.
