This morning, Lyndell and I flew from Lima, Peru to Cusco, Peru - a one hour flight. What complicates the issue is that Lima is at sea level, and that Cusco is at 3400 m (11,200 feet) above sea level. Gathering advice from many sources (Lima friends, books, internet, taxi drivers!), here is what we learned:
#1 Take it easy the first day - rest, drink lots of water, relax - this is easy for us, especially since we are in a wonderful 5 star hotel at the moment :)
#2 Medication - there are 2 over-the counter meds that are available to try to prevent eventual doctors visits and more complicated treatments - first we were recommended Gravol to deal with general motion sickness (also the eventual windy roads that we have to look forward to in the next few days). However, the more prevalent recommendation, and what we are going with, are Sorocho Pills which are miracle altitude adjustment pills that work both to prevent and treat all related symptoms. One pill every 8 hours. The one thing we would do different next time, would be to take the first pill 2 hours before arrival. We only bought the pills here in Cusco so had a bit of catch up to do :(
#3 Matte de Coca (tea made from cocaine leaves!!!) - as harsh and shady as this may sound, it is highly recommended and "they" say it is perfectly harmless when done in moderation (we know, sounds a bit like another green drug)... and "they" say it is a natural solution to a very natrual and potentially dangerous problem. The tea is really quite weak and tasteless and they serve it 24/7 in the reception area. When in Rome...
To end this post, three pics: the first of a lovely Gerber Daisy that awaited us in our Hilton Suite... then, the views as we passed atop the Andes late this morning.
Stay tuned...
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