Passport and Visas:

While all international travelers will need a valid passport, U.S. citizens do not need to apply for a tourist visa. If you hold a passport from another nation, however, check to see if Mexico requires you to get a visa. All travelers need to obtain a Forma Migratoria Multiple if they will be traveling by land in the Cancun area.
Foreign nationals who wish to visit the United States for leisure or tourism are normally eligible to receive a B-2 Tourist Visa. B-2 Tourist Visas are "visitor visas" and are required for citizens of countries that are not included in the Visa Waiver Program. However, even citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program are required to hold a valid B-2 visa if they plan to stay in the United States for longer than 90 days, change status to another nonimmigrant visa, or adjust status to permanent resident (Green Card) after entering the country.

Local Currency:

The US dollar (familiarly called a ‘buck’) is divided into 100 cents (¢). Coins come in denominations of 1¢ (penny), 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter), the practically extinct 50¢ (half-dollar), and the not-oft-seen golden dollar coin, which was introduced in early 2000, featuring a picture of Sacagawea, the Native American guide who led the explorers Lewis and Clark on their expedition through the western US. Although striking, the gold coins are prohibitively heavy and jingle conspicuously, alerting panhandlers to your well-heeled presence

Time:

New York is in the Eastern Time Zone in the United States of America (USA). Eastern Standard Time (EST) is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-5).

Manhattan, New York ends Daylight Saving Time on Sunday November 3, 2013 at 2:00 AM local time.

Electric Plugs:

Their day-to-day EV charging needs would be relatively minimal, and the Mayor’s PlaNYC confirmed this sentiment in its survey of early EV adopters, who expressed disinterest in a dense public charging network.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in the United States of New York usually supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 110-120 volts the socket is supplying. If your appliance is from another part of the world, and it is built only for 220-240 volt electricity, or a Japanese appliance built for 100 volts, then a travel plug adapter by itself won't be sufficient. The voltage will have to be changed from 110-120 volts at the socket, to whatever voltage your appliance requires. This is accomplished with a voltage transformer.

Weather:

New York climate is very tropical with high temperatures throughout the year. The daytime temperature hardly climbs to 30°C and the island receives a great level of sunshine. In fact, it experiences two distinctive seasons; dry season, from May till September, and wet seasons, from October till April.

he warming that's anticipated from climate change is happening throughout the year, so the months that are already hot — like June, July and August — are going to get hotter, but months that are more moderate, like May and September, may become uncomfortably hot or fatally hot,

Shopping:

New York City is known for the near endless Shopping opportunities and no vacation to New York City would be complete without visiting the Upscale Stores on 5th Avenue or the famous Boutique Shops all throughout Manhattan. New York City Shopping has something for every need, taste and budget. Manhattan is where fashion happens. The savvy shoppers visit the right stores in Manhattan and NYC to get the best deals on the latest Fashions, Leather Goods, Designer Purses, Jewelry, Accessories and much more.
Manhattan Shopping is an exciting adventure not to be missed when visiting New York City. New York City is home to some of the world's most Exclusive Stores to be sure but there are countless New York City Shopping opportunities to find bargains on Fashion, Jewelry, Electronics and the always popular, souvenir New York City T-Shirt.

Top 10 Souvenirs and Gifts to Buy In New York

Taking gifts back for friends and family is an important part of your Manhattan, New York Singles Vacation. Here is a suggestion of gifts you could take back home.
 
1. New York t shirt
2. Note cards
3. Totes/bags
4. Books
5. New York frames
6. Santa cookie ornament
7. Cuffins
8. Jewelry
9. New York glass
10. New York belt

Local Foods

Western New York is famous for Buffalo Wings and Beef on Weck sandwiches. We all know about Buffalo wings (which are easy to make at home.

Explore NYC's urban indoor food market - birthplace of the Oreo Cookie! Learn about the history You’ll enjoy eight indulgent tastings in all including chocolate truffles, cupcakes, macarons, salty caramels and dark chocolate almond bark

Then, indulge with innovative chocolates at SoHo's posh Xocolatti's, which features daring flavors like white chocolate with mango and paprika. You'll visit all these places and more!
Delight in the scrumptious almond bark deems 'incredible,' and step inside the quaint, unassuming Milk & Cookies Bakery for a warm, classic chocolate chip cookie.

For what to pack on all singles vacations and more tips - Click Here

North America Travel and vacation Information

North America Vacations for 18 - 35 Year Old
North America Singles Vacations for 35+
North America Destination Information

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Passport and Visas:

Ireland

You do not need a visa to travel in Ireland if you are a citizen of the USA or Canada. A passport is required.

Permission to land: Even if you do not require a visa to enter Ireland, all non-EEA nationals, including those with visas, must obtain permission to enter the State by reporting to an Immigration Officer at the port of entry. The length of time you will be allowed to stay in Ireland is determined by the Immigration Officer but will never exceed a maximum of 90 days.

Scotland

Visitors to Scotland and the UK must hold a valid passport before starting their journey and children may require their own passports. Visitors from the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, can stay for up to six months, providing they have a return ticket and funds to cover the trip.

Local Money:

Ireland

There are two currencies in Ireland. In the Southern part they use the euro and in Northern Ireland they use the Britisih pound sterling. Each euro (€.) consists of 100 cents and the denominations of their bills are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. 

Scotland

The currency of Scotland is the GBP Pound (£). One pound is comprised of 100 pence and coins can be obtained in 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2 denominations. Money can be exchanged in banks, at foreign exchange bureaus and hotels.

Time:

Ireland

Ireland is in Western European Time and is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Scotland

Scotland is in the Western European Time Zone 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Scotland does utilize Daylight Saving Time. In Scotland daylight saving time is referred to as "British Summer Time."

Electric Plugs

Ireland

The standard voltage is the Republic of Ireland is 220 VAC at 50Hz. Plugs are 3 pin 1363 type. Most shaving sockets also support 110 VAC with the 2 pin international shaving plug. Many hotel rooms provide hair dryers. The voltage in Northern Ireland is 230/240 VAC 50Hz.

Scotland

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Scotland (Alba) usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need..

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 110-120 volts the socket is supplying. If your appliance is from another part of the world, and it is built only for 220-240 volt electricity, or a Japanese appliance built for 100 volts, then a travel plug adapter by itself won't be sufficient. The voltage will have to be changed from 110-120 volts at the socket, to whatever voltage your appliance requires. This is accomplished with a voltage transformer.

Weather

Ireland

The climate of Ireland can be summed up as being mild, moist and changeable with abundant rainfall and a lack of [temperature extremes.]

Ireland, as a whole, experiences a lack of temperature extremes compared to other areas of similar latitudes. Summers are generally warm and winters are mild. There is a regional variation, with inland areas being cooler in winter and warmer in summer than their coastal counterparts. Temperate maritime, modified by North Atlantic Current, mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time.

In Ireland, the only constant when it comes to weather is change. In fact, the locals say it’s not unusual to experience four seasons in one day. So don’t be surprised if you wake up to a spot of rain but find that the clouds have cleared just in time to view a perfect sunset over the Cliffs of Moher.

Scotland

Scotland's climate is actually moderate if changeable and only rarely extreme high latitude at either end of the temperature scale. The average number of days with snow falling in Scotland ranges from 15 to 20 days, whereas on the peaks and mountains in the Highlands the average number of days with snow falling is about 100 days.

Scotland's climate is highly unpredictable. Weather patterns shift all the time, and the climate can differ widely in places only a short distance apart.

What to Pack for Your Vacation

* Rain coat for wind and rain that you will face in Ireland, regardless of the season - The coat should not be insulated, should be comfortable and completely waterproof - compact easily for storage.
* Sturdy shoes, Spare Set of Comfy Shoes
* Light Jacket or Sweater, Hooded Weather-Proof Jacket

For what to pack on all singles vacations and more tips - Click Here

Shopping:

Ireland

You can actually shop until you drop in Ireland - rural arts and crafts centers will entice you to spend some money, so will some of the largest and most modern malls in Europe! Find out where to shop, what to look out for and how to strike a bargain. Be it typical souvenirs or the latest European fashions.

Scotland

Scotland offers an unrivalled shopping experience, no matter what your style and interests. Indulge in the very best local food and drink, purchased directly from the producers at farmers’ markets, or treat yourself to a stylish spree in one of Scotland’s many great shopping centres and boutique The shopping experience in Scotland is very varied. Though the cities have the ‘High Street’ names, plus some very stylish and exclusive brands, rural areas have plenty of surprises. Here you'll discover potters and jewelers, knitwear designers, weavers, silversmiths and kilt makers. Come and experience fantastic shopping across Scotland, with world-class designers and specialist boutiques, sumptuous food and drink, and beautiful hand-crafted items.

Top 10 Souvenirs and Gift in Scotland

1. Aran Sweaters
2. Crystal
3. Tweeds
4. Linen
5. Parian China
6. Whiskey and Other Spirits
7. Fishing Tackle
8. Irish Music and DVDs
9. Smoked Salmon
10. A Piece of the Auld Sod!

Local Foods:

Ireland

Lincolnshire sausages, Aberdeen Angus beef or fruit, Cumberland sausage, Jersey potat, Cornish Pasties, loosest sausage and An Ulster fry.

Scotland

* A buttery, also known as a bowie or Aberdeen roll, is a savoury Scottish bread roll. They are noted for their flaky texture and buttery taste
* The Arbroath Smokie originally came from the small fishing village of Auchmithie, three miles north-east of A bride or For far bride is a Scottish type of meat pastry or pie, originally from the town of For far
* Scotland is notorious for its sweet tooth, and cakes and puddings are taken very seriously. You might have heard of Clootie Dumpling, Cranachan or Atholl Brose
* Cullen Skink is a thick Scottish soup made of smoked Finnan haddock, potatoes and onions.
* The Scottish city of Dundee has a long association with marmalade.
* Finnan Haddie is smoked haddock which originated in the Aberdeen fishing village of Findon.
* Fish and chips is very popular across Scotland
* Sliced sausage remains a favourite in Scottish cooked breakfasts and is often eaten in a bread roll. It can be pork or beef or a mixture of the two.
* Rowan berries can be made into a slightly bitter jelly which in Scotland is traditionally eaten as A Scotch pie
* Bannock is bread the same thickness as a scone. It is a form of flat cake, baked on a griddle and popular in Scotland

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Passport and Visas:

Visas are not required for US, Canadian and European citizens. To enter France, a passport valid for at least three months beyond the length of stay is required by all nationals. South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival, and a valid Schengen visa, to enter Italy. All other citizens please check with your local embassy

Local Currency:

Currency in France: Euro
Euros come in both paper and coins. Paper Euros come in different colors and sizes depending on the face value, 500 bills are violet, 200 bills are yellow, 100 are green, 50 are orange, 20 are blue, 10 are red and 5 are grey. The coins are either 1 Euro or 2 Euros, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. The bigger the coin the bigger the value... the 1 cent coin is very small.

Local Time:

France is Central European Time (CET).
6 Hours ahead of EST / 9 Hours ahead of PST - During daylight savings: 5 Hours ahead of EST / 8 Hours ahead of PST

Electric Plugs:

Electricity in Italy, as in the rest of Europe, comes out of the wall socket at 220 volts alternating at a 50 cycles per second. In North America, electricity comes out of the wall socket at 110 volts, alternating at 60 cycles per second. Not only the voltages and frequencies, but the sockets themselves are different. Italy's outlets are two (or three) round-prong socket. You will need an electric converter.

Weather:

France's weather is very diverse and changes from region to region and city to city..

Paris and Lyon are located in the Central and Eastern part of France and share some of the country’s coldest winters, with frequent snow and frost. Summers are usually warm, with temperatures in the mid 70s F in Paris and the low 90s F in Lyon. Expect a quick thunderstorm in July and August.

A Mediterranean climate can be found along the French Riviera: Marseilles, Nice and Corsica. Summer is the best time to enjoy the sun, beach and nightlife. The average temperature is around 85 F. Even though the climate is a little dry, a comfortable sea breeze always comes in from the Mediterranean.

What to Pack for Your France Vacation

The French are all about the fashion. Our vacations are casual, so dress for comfort, Of course wear what makes you happy!

Pack clothing that can be layered depending on the day's weather. Neutral colors are always easy to match. Add a sweater or lightweight jacket that you can carry with you in case it gets chilly
If you don’t want to look like a tourist then don’t wear any of the following: white sneakers and white socks - baseball caps - fanny packs - sweatshirts or sweatpants

One suitcase and an overnight bag are allowed – please check with individual airlines for weight limits.

For what to pack on all singles vacations and more tips - Click Here

Phones:

Nowadays it’s relatively easy to use your own mobile phone in France, however, the costs of both making and receiving phone calls can be high. Texting is a more economical way to contact others. Please check with your carrier for availability and rates.

While in France, if you would like to use your phone for the internet, only when there is free internet, turn your phone to airplane mode.

France Country Code - 33

Shopping in France:

The most important word to know when shopping in France is SOLDE - English translation - SALE

As is the custom throughout Europe, prices displayed in shops in France always include sales tax ("la TVA" - value added tax). The price on the label is the price you will be pay/

Paris is one of the world's top shopping cities. Even people who hate shopping enjoy shopping in Paris. You can find something for everyone, whether it's haute couture, flea markets, perfume, comic books, outdoor markets, or whatever. Today most of the stores on the Champs Elysées are international chains, from Hugo Boss to Disney to Zara, and of course McDonalds. With a few exceptions such as Lacoste, Sephora, Cartier and Louis Vuitton, French shops are long gone.

The top French fashion designers such as Yves St. Laurent, Dior and Chanel have their own shops in Paris, plus they also have retail outlets in major department stores throughout France.

Stores in Nice are usually open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 7pm , some close for lunch. Most of the stores are closed on Sunday except in the Old Town where the shops stay open longer.

Local Foods:

France is world-famous for its cuisine and no French meal is complete without wine.
Try some of the country’s most famous dishes while in Paris. like boeuf à la bourguignonne or crêpes Suzette. French Onion Soup is on the menu at almost every restaurant and you can find yourself a quality Artisan Boulanger (bread shop) and enjoy a baguette, pain au Chocolat, or some pastries. Macarons are delicate, sweet, meringue-like shells that sandwiches some sort of ganache, buttercream, or jam filling.
France is known for great cheeses and each region has its own collection of cheeses, so be sure to give the regional specialties a try.
Food on the French Riviera more strongly resembles northern Italian than French food. The cuisine revolves around olives, olive oil and herbs, tomatoes and garlic. The emphasis is also placed on fresh seafood and local produce. Bouillabaisse is a fish stew that originally comes from Marseille and contains various kinds of fish and shellfish, and in the summertime Salad Nicoise is available everywhere.

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Passport and Visa

Foreign nationals who wish to visit the United States for leisure or tourism are normally eligible to receive a B-2 Tourist Visa. B-2 Tourist Visas are "visitor visas" and are required for citizens of countries that are not included in the Visa Waiver Program. However, even citizens of countries included in the Visa Waiver Program are required to hold a valid B-2 visa if they plan to stay in the United States for longer than 90 days, change status to another nonimmigrant visa, or adjust status to permanent resident (Green Card) after entering the country.

Local Currency:

The Eastern part of Florida (which includes all the major towns and cities) fall in the Eastern Time Zone, which is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-5). .

Like most states in the US, Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed in Florida, where the time is shifted forward by 1 hour, resulting in a 4 hours and 5 hours difference behind GMT for the Eastern and Western part of Florida respectively. After the summer months the time is shifted back by 1 hour resulting in the normal time difference behind GMT .

Electric Plugs:

Electrical sockets (outlets) in the United States of America usually supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

South Florida Weather:

South Folorida features a tropical rainforest climate with little seasonal variation in temperature.

Summers (wet season) are from May through October and are hot, humid, and wet with average high temperatures of 86–90 °F (30–32 °C) and lows of 71–76 °F (22–24 °C). During this period, more than half of summer days may bring afternoon or evening thunderstorms. .
 
Winters (dry season) are from November through April and are warm and mostly dry with average high temperatures of 75–82 °F (24–28 °C) and lows of 59–67 °F (15–19 °C). There occasional cold fronts during this period and rare freezes do occur every few years. 

Shopping in South Florida

Fort Lauderdale

Discover the convenience and the value of shopping in everything from boutiques to department stores in Greater Fort Lauderdale. There are special shopping tours for groups and local shuttle buses from the beach. You can shop at The Galleria by Water Taxi. visit Sawgrass Mills, the world's largest discount and entertainment mall and the Swap Shop, South's largest flea market, and Festival Flea Market, a quarter-mile long shopper's paradise, are just a few of the venues to begin your retail therapy. Translated "the waves" in Spanish, Las Olas Blvd. is known as Greater Fort Lauderdale's "style mile," lined with independently owned boutiques and is a stop along Fort Lauderdale's Water Taxi system.

Top 10 Souvenirs and Gifts to Buy in South Florida

Taking gifts back for friends and family is an important part of your South Florida vacation. Here is a suggestion of gifts you could take back home.

1. T shirt, Florida novelties and tacky souvenirs
2. Cheap hat, or sun glasses
3. tacky fridge magnet
4. dried out starfish
5. inflatable flamingo
6. Kleenex covers covered with shells
7. napkin holders and spoon rests with shells embedded in resin
8. Three image Florida gift mug
9. Florida flamingo fridge magnet
10. Tote

Local South Florida Foods

In Las Olas, there are some great restaurants you might personally love (since there are so many good places would make you personally skip the chains like Cheesecake Factory). Sitting outside to people-watch definitely adds to the experience!

For what to pack on all singles vacations and more tips - Click Here

North America Travel and vacation Information

North America Vacations for 18 - 35 Year Old
North America Singles Vacations for 35+
North America Destination Information

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Visa and Passports

For USA and Canadian citizena a passport is needed to enter Mexico. Upon arrival in Mexico you will need to produce an up to date passport plus a visitor’s permit which is now known as the FMM “Forma Migratoria Multiple”. This form is provided free of charge by your travel agent, airline or at point of entry. As before, passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no visa required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. If you’re visiting Mexico from the US or Canada, this applies to you.

Immigration will check your documents and stamp and process the form, handing you back the right-hand portion, which you must keep and surrender when you leave Mexico. If you lose this form, you will have to go to the immigration desk at the airport and may have to pay a fine for another one, so it is best to attach it to your passport so it cannot be misplaced.

Mexico Visa Policy permits citizens of the countries listed below to travel to Mexico without a visa. (FMTTV):
Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany,Greece, Hong Kong,Hungary, Irland, Island, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lienchtestein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweeden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Urugay, USA,Venezuela
Ministry of Foreign Affairs - http://www.sre.gob.mx/

Local Currency

The official currency in Cancun is the Mexican peso but American dollars are also widely accepted. Banks are open Monday-Friday from 9am to 4pm but there are exchange houses found all over Cancun that are open much later.

Time

Cancun time zone is six hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Daylight Saving Time begins on the first Sunday in April and ends on the last Sunday in October.

Electric Plugs

The standard Cancun electricity supply is 110 volts. Hotels usually offer voltage converters for 220 volt devices. Many sockets do not accept polarized or three-prong plugs so it is recommended that you bring your own adapter but you can usually buy these in the hotel shop.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 110-120 volts the socket is supplying. If your appliance is from another part of the world, and it is built only for 220-240 volt electricity, or a Japanese appliance built for 100 volts, then a travel plug adapter by itself won't be sufficient. The voltage will have to be changed from 110-120 volts at the socket, to whatever voltage your appliance requires. This is accomplished with a voltage transformer.

Weather

Cancun weather boasts year round sunshine making it ideal for a vacation at any time of year. Cancun weather is tropical and humid with year round sunshine. The temperature ranges from 20° to 30° C (68° to 86° F) from October through to March and from 22° to 33° C (75° a 91° F) from April to September.

What to Pack for Your Cancun Vacation

* One suitcase and an overnight bag are allowed – please check with individual airlines for weight limits.
* Sun block of at least 15 SPF – Lip balm Lip balm – Beach hat / Visor
* Beach bag, sunglasses
* Bathing suits and cover ups
* Tank Tops, Underwear, socks
* A t-shirt to wear while snorkeling, so you don’t get a sunburned back.
* Cheap blow-up air mattress for floating in the pool or ocean.
* Baby powder, great for getting the sand off your feet.

For what to pack on all singles vacations and more tips - Click Here

Phone

How to dial a Cancun Landline
XXX: International Access Code
+52 : Country Code for the United States
Area code: 998
Local telephone number: 7 digits

How to dial a Cancun Mobile
XXX: International Access Code
+52: Country Code for the United States
Mobile Number : 10 digits

Shopping

As one of the world’s premier tourist destinations the shopping in Cancun is as impressive as one would imagine. You will find everything from ultra-chic designer stores and famous brand names, to flea markets and souvenir shops selling Mexican local handcrafts. Cancun shopping is duty free so you can find some real bargains on cosmetics and fine jewellery.

There are many shopping malls in Cancun all offering the avid shopper a real treat. Here is a list of just some of the great places to go if you fancy shopping in Cancun whether it be for a new designer outfit for yourself or a gift to take home to your loved ones

Top 10 Souvenirs and Gifts to Buy In Cancun, Mexico

1. Kahlua and pure vanilla extract. (sold separately, of course.)
2. Wind chimes
3. Pottery
4. During Christmas season - few Christmas ornaments
5. Mexican/Maya Handcrafts
6. Silver and various jewelry items
7. T-shirt
8. Leather workings
9. Food/Silver wares
10. Fridge Magnet

Local Foods

The traditional dishes that you can enjoy when you visit the beautiful beaches of Cancun include Pescado a la Tikin-Xic, fish prepared with annatto, sour orange, peppers, tomatoes, red onions, and spices. This fish is usually grilled over charcoal, wrapped in banana leaf, and bathed in beer and olive oil.

Another delight are the famous Kibis, baked wheat balls stuffed with cheese or meat with chopped onion and habanero chili or sour orange slices. This particular snack with Arabic influence is offered in glass cases at Playa Delfines (where you can taste your kibis while admiring the turquoise blue sea) or near shopping centers.

North America Travel and vacation Information

North America Vacations for 18 - 35 Year Old
North America Singles Vacations for 35+
North America Destination Information

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Trip Tips and What to Pack For Your
Machu Picchu Singles Vacation by Train

Passport and Visas

Northen Americans and citizens of the European Union do not need visas to enter Peru. If you are from a citizen of a different country you can check the Peru Consualate's website for visa requirements.

Local Currency

The local currency is Nuevos Soles but US dollars are widely accepted. 1 Nuevo Sol is divided into 100 Céntimo. ATMs will be available in all cities just remember you will need your pin code. Do not change money with street changers.

Most establishments accept credit cards, including Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express.. When using a credit card, make sure you are charged the right amount for your purchase. Visa is the most widely accepted card in Peru. If you are planning on using your credit cards then you should call the credit card companys and let them know that you are traveling to Peru.

Language

Peru has two official languages: Spanish and Quechua. English is spoken at most hotels, tourist attractions and shops.

Local Time

Peru is 5 hours behind GMT (Greenwich mean time), which is the same time as Eastern Standard Time in the United states.. Peru does not observe daylight savings time.

Electric Plugs

The electric system of Peru works on 220 volts. So check your equipment (phone and camera chargers, hair dryers, flat irons. In most hotel bathrooms there is an electrical outlet with 110 volts for electric shavers but not to be used for irons or hairdryers. Purchase a converter/adaptor before you leave home.

Peru Weather

The high altitude of Machu Picchu makes for mild temperatures with the average ranging between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with only slight variations throughout the year. Machu Picchu is almost always surrounded by fog. November to April is the rainy season, although daily short showers are common thoughout the year. Peak tourist season corresponds with dry season in July and August when the nights are cool and the days are generally dry. January and February are the rainiest months, and many people visit the area in November and April to avoid the heaviest crowds.

The tempertaure can vary from hot during the day to cold at night – so be prepared. It can get rather chilly in the shade, thus you should always keep a warm garment with you when you're out and about.

What to Pack for Your Peru Vacation

The key to packing for a vacation to Peru is to pack for a variety of conditions while keeping the weight to a minimum. Easier said than done when you have to deal with the heat of the high altitude and the cold mountain nights. The best way to deal with these changes is to dress using layers.

You have to be prepared for fluctuating temperatures. It would be ideal to bring along a sweater, mittens and a wind-jacket, inside a small backpack. During the day, you can wear long sleeve cotton shirts and comfortable trousers to move around easily. During the dry season (May-November), the sun forces you to wear sunglasses and a hat, and apply sunscreen.

If you are taking a medium or large suitcase on your vacation, then you should also have a carryon bag for the overnight trip to Machu Picchu. The larger suitcase will remain at the Cusco hotel. What you should have in your overnight bag:

• Insect repellent - insects and mosquitoes appear during sunny days, and their bites can produce skin irritation.
• Raincoat, umbrella, and plastic bags to protect your camera, cell phone, and other valuables from getting wet.
• Sunblock, sun hat, and sunglasses: the sun can be very strong at Machu Picchu and there is little shade.
• Good walking shoes as you will be climbing steps and walking on uneven stone paths.
• A swim suit if you want to visit the famed thermal baths of Aguas Calientes. You can purchase or rent a towel at one of the many shops along the way.
• If you are a light sleeper you might want earplugs, many of the Machu Picchu hotels are not well insulated.
• Don't forget your Altitude medication.

Phone Service

When dialing Peru from overseas dial your country's international access code 001 followed by the country code (51), followed by the regional code (see below) minus the initial 0, followed by the number.

Regional codes for the largest cities:-
01 Lima
084 Cusco
084 Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes)
056 Nasca

Shopping in Peru

Peru is one of the top shopping destinations in South America and known for local crafts and artwork. Small shops line the streets with handmade alpaca clothes, woven items and pottery. Items purchased in shops and restaurants have fixed prices and usually cannot be bargained for. However, items on the street or in the market are bargainable.

Outdoor markets are very popular with locally made items laid out and bargaining is the norm. Traditional Peruvian items are very colorful and unique. Lima and Cusco have the best shopping for touristy souvenirs, with reasonable prices and the most variety.

Before you start shopping have enough nuevo sol coins and small denomination bills with you. Large bills can be hard to use as many shops won’t have enough change to give you. Some shopkeepers will just refuse to accept large bills, especially if what you are buying is inexpensive. Others will send someone to find change, which can take awhile.

Local Foods

reflects local cooking practices and ingredients—and, through immigration, influences from Spain, China, Italy, West Africa, and Japan. Due to a lack of ingredients from their home countries, immigrants to Peru modified their traditional cuisines by using ingredients available in Peru. The three traditional staples of Peruvian cuisine are corn, potatoes, and ajies (chili). These ingredients have been combined with a number of staples brought by the Spanish, such as rice, wheat and meat (such as beef, pork and chicken). Many traditional foods—such as quinoa, kiwicha,chili peppers, and several roots and tubers have increased in popularity in recent decades, reflecting a revival of interest in native Peruvian foods and culinary techniques.

Important Local Information

* Travelers should drink only bottled water, which is widely available. Do not drink tap water, even in major hotels.
* It is customary in many Indian populated areas to give a small tip to the subject of your photographs.
* Public toilets are rarely available except in restaurants, bars and at railway stations. Toilet paper is not always provided so you should carry tissues.

Altiitude Sickness

You will be visiting cities high above sea level, like Cuzco (11,000 feet ) and Lake Titicaca (13,000 feet), shortness of breath and heart pounding are normal, given the scarcity of oxygen. Some travelers may experience headache, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue and nausea. The best advice is to rest on your first day to get accustomed to the altitude. Drink plenty of liquids, including the local remedy: coca leaf tea (It’s perfectly legal). Avoid alcohol and eat lightly.

Check with your doctor to see if you can avoid altitude sickness by taking 500 mg a day of acetazolamide (Diamox) taken 24 hours before departure and continued up to 48 hours after arrival to the high altitude cities. Acetazolamide should not be taken persons allergic to sulfa drugs.

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

Vacation Destination - South America

South America Travel

South America is a feast for the senses. This continent has something for everyone. Travel to ancient Inca temples, feel the awe-inspiring power of amazing waterfalls, dine and wine with tapas and tango your nights away. Explore colonial towns with cobblestone streets and 18th century plazas and shop colorful local markets of the region.

The diversity of South America’s landscape includes snowcapped mountains, ice-blue glaciers, stunning waterfalls, archipelago islands, lush rainforests, and spectacular mountain ranges with active volcanoes. South America Animals are as unique as their continent; they range from mammals, including include the llama and alpaca, to reptiles, from amphibians to rodents. The Anteater with its big snout is also a native of South America.

Whether it is a vacation in Ushuaia, the Southern most point, the thick jungles of the Amazon or the famous wine country of Chile, South America is a continent of unforgettable experiences just waiting to be discovered.

South America Countries

(If a country is ihas a * then you can click on it for more vacation information)

Argentina | Bolivia | Brazil | Chile | Colombia | Ecuador* | French Guiana | Guyana | Paraguay | Peru* | Suriname| Uruguay | Venezuela |

Vacations

South America Vacations for 18 - 35 Year Olds
South America Singles Vacations for 35+ 40's 50's 60's

Where Will You Be This New Year's?

Why stay home or do the same old thing?

When You can Make Friends and Memories for Life!

Buenos Aires, Argentina New Years
December 28, 2018 - January 5, 2019

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Hawaii Islands New Years Singles Cruise

January 26, 2019 - February 2, 2019

Oahu - Maui - Kauai - Kona & Hilo

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Vietnam New Years Singles Vacation
December 27, 2018 - January 7, 2019

Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

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Destination - North America

Vacations

North America Vacations for 18 - 35 Year Olds

North America Singles Vacations for 35+ 40's 50's 60's

Singles Cruises

Singles Weekends