6.30 this morning I had enough, called the local doctor and duly went to the Arequipa hospital to have tests done (fainted during the blood test, not my most manly achievement) it turns out I have bacterial infection from some Peruvian 'delicacy'. Furthermore Charlie has exactly the same infection only in earlier stages - thus pointing the finger at the Ica burger we both munched through a couple of days ago. So stocked up with antibiotics and a load of Peruvian ...

Just a quick entry today. Woke up really early today feeling good but tired. But unfortunately it seems the Peruvian traditional meal we enjoyed yesterday has taken it's toll on me. We tried to head into town but I made it as far as the street. Been in bed since, drinking water and rehydration powder like it's going out of fashion. Plan at the moment is to fully recover before heading off elsewhere. Fingers crossed it shouldn't be too long.

Wow what a day or so. An early start yesterday morning, a rush hour taxi ride across Lima to the Cruz del Sur bus station ready for our bus to Ica, only Charlie had to have an 'I'm depth' chat with the security guard. 4 hours on the bus to Ica followed by a quick taxi to hauchachina - an oasis in the middle of the dunes. A stroll around this strange little town, a speedy 15 soles burger and it was time to meet our group for the 'dune buggy and sand boarding tour'...

Well, back from Lima after a busy day. Firstly, booked a whole host of bits and bobs. Namely a 4 hour bus to Ica, then a sand boarding experience followed by a beastly 10 hour bus to Arequipa. This morning to beat the jet lag we packed up our day bags and hopped in a taxi to Lima centre. Starving we hit the first restaurant in sight, asked for the waiters favourite and, somehow, it turned out an amazing feast (helped by Peruvian beer). Then to boost the culture...

After arriving at the airport at 06.30 to find out our airport pick up was booking for yesterday, we had a little bartering with a taxi driver. 40 soles to our hostel. Sunbathed pictures and $11 seemed a bargain online, but hostel is seemingly basic! But nevertheless is perfect for our first night. Just off in a minute to book bus onwards. Followed by a little jaunt around Lima city centre before the jet lag sets in!