8pm Wednesday 10/10, Lima, Peru.
Much as I want to love every part of South America, Lima presents a challenge. There are about 9 million people, so it's more than twice as big as Melbourne or Sydney. And it's located on a relatively narrow strip of land wedged between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes, which somehow creates a state of perpetual fog, and no rain. It's just... bleak. Overcast, barely anything green, dirty and very, very crowded.
Having said that, the people are fantastic. Going through Customs was amazingly simple, and friendly (unlike some places I've been where they terrorise you purely for their own amusement - yes, I'm looking at you, LAX), and efficient (now I'm looking at you, Melbourne baggage handlers). The trip from the airport was eye-opening to say the least, but the hotel I stayed in was lovely and the food was great.
Some things I've learned so far:
- Airline boarding & flight times in South America appear to be more "suggested guideline" than "set in stone".
- Ditto for lanes & lines on the road.
- Do not attempt to drive a car in Lima unless you are prepared to blare the horn at least once every 5 minutes.
- It's almost entirely possible that I am currently the tallest woman on this entire continent.
:-)