The return of Rambo, back room visas and a little affair with Betty.

Rambo returned in full force as Niamh and I set out for our first dinner in Arequipa. He almost ran into my face as we entered the falafel shop and again! asked about the Chaco´s. These are Chaco´s by the way, if you´re not aware.

I don´t think the blog does Rambo justice, but his mannerisms are unforgettable. Arequipa was also unforgettable. Beautiful buildings, delicious food and the beginning of the biggest adventure yet. About a week ago, Niamh and I met Betty: a 1977 white VW van. She´s being driven from New York City to Rio by two Australians in a quest to make a sweet documentary and have adventures along the way. http://nyc2rio.com/ Adventures we had. We joined them from Arequipa to La Paz in what was planned as a one day, one long day, but one day drive. It took two. In second gear about 80% of the time. It included a shower for Harley in gas, or petrol as they would call it, a tow truck through La Paz on Saturday night, delicious pizza in Puno, push starting Betty every time we had to stop and great music. Niamh and I were laid back and ready to rumble and I can honestly say that it was one of the best things I´ve done since being here. The guys are infinitely patient and we had a once in a lifetime experience. Including, but not limited to, my back room visa into Bolivia. You see, Americans are currently the only ones who have to pay to get into Bolivia and I ¨lost¨my yellow fever shot paper so the officer had to accompany me to a private office where I was finally issued my visa. Niamh came with, bless her!! It cost a little more, but the unique experience of Bolivia was worth it. Besides the fact that I felt good going into a country that might not always be advised mostly because we were in a good group and had our heads on our shoulders. It´s pretty amazing the difference it makes when you travel through South America with guys versus me alone, or a group of women. I didn´t even always feel safer, it was just a nice break to be ignored as you walked down the street. I also think it was prudent of us to enter Bolivia with three guys seeing as there have been problems...everything went fine for us and back in Peru and I am SO glad I had that experience.