Lima Clubhouse | South American Explorers
Tom, as you know, in the 1990s I courted and married a Peruvian girl, so I have travelled more than many, throughout most of Peru.
I'd suggest you check this out. Meet these people, young expats, mostly, a hip group of friendly people, they will update you on weather, political and economic conditions, they even have a library (Current Time magazines appreciated), they can even store your extra baggage you are in Peru) an will greet you with a cup of tea.
It's been a long time since I was down there, but every time the plane landed at Jorge Chavez International in Lima, this was my first stop.
I'd suggest also if your schedule allows, check out the Callejon de Huaylas ---
It's the "Switzerland" and where the rich Peruvians like to vacation.
Absolutely stunning, you'd never forget it. Few U.S. tourists ever go or even know about it.
Visit the Jockey Plaza mall in Lima, the Gold Museum in Monterrico (Lima) and the famous La Rosa Nautica on the beach Lima, and Barranco at night.
In Lima, the safest and nicest part is Miraflores, (the Beverly Hills part of Lima).
Taxicabs are everywhere, but ALWAYS agree on the price BEFORE getting into one. Pickpockets abound on trains and buses, so if you have a backpack, slide a small mesh screen in the back of it, it will slow down the razors and knives = works perfect, or did for me.
Maybe before you leave, find and rent the movie "Mancora" ------ see some young Peruvians go up the coast to surf, a long trip, road movie, great scenery, surf boards strapped to the roof of a w123 Mercedes Benz !!!
Máncora (2008) - IMDb
Máncora (2008) - Plot Summary - IMDb
Have fun. Feel free to talk to me before you go, if you want