I am going to Lima, Peru Sunday. I am travelling alone and meeting someone there. What is it like in Lima?

Thank You for your answers. Sincerely Tom,. One more question. How are Americans treated in Peru?

Ok. First of all, americans are treated fine in Peru, but the general view is that they are loaded with money, so most taxis will try to overcharge you. When you arrive at the airport, hire a taxi right after you pass customs and before you go out to the throng of people waiting outside. It will make your life easier.
Second, bring summer clothes, 'cause it is HOT in Lima at this time. Also, beware of the sun, you might have seen sun like this in the US, but bear in mind you are closer to the equator and the sun's rays are stronger here, so if you are not carefull you'll get a major SUNBURN.
Third. Peruvian food is awesome, but if you're not used to spices (I mean all spices, not just chilli and other hot stuff), it might be hard on your stomach. Take it ieasy at first to give your system time to get used to it.
Fourth. Peruvian partying starts late and ends late. People will show up at the club around midnight or 1 am and party til 8 or 9 am.
Fifth. Try the Pisco Sour, but be carefull, it is desceitful. It has a lot of sugar so you wont feel the puch, but the pisco is 40掳 proof, so go slow on the pisco sour drinking.
Sixth. try the Inca Kola. It is a yellow soda with a bubble gum taste. Kindda an aquired taste.

Seventh: Try a Chifa (Titi, Chifa Internacional, Wa Lok) Chifa is cantonese food peruvian style. Chinese have been in Peru for about 1.5 to 2 centuries and their cooking has fused with Peruvian cooking. Actually an typical peruvina dish is stir fried beef (Called "lomo saltado").

Eight: Go to the beach. If you can make it to the beach called "ASIA" (about 97 kms south of Lima) do it. It is were everyone is during the summer.

Nine: Hang out at "Larco Mar", maybe have luch there. The view is worth the visit.

Tenth: I know it is hot, but try visiting the old city (downtown). The palace of government, the cathedral, the Church of San Francisco. If you happen to have luch there, try the T'anta.

Eleventh: Visit the Huaca Pucllana (an old holly place from before the Incas)

Twelveth: If you have time, Visit the Sanctuary of Pachacamac. The most holy place in Inca and Pre inca times other than the Coricancha in Cuzco.


Hope this helps.

MSDC麓s answer is all that you need to know. Enjoy your visit to Lima!

MSDC at the moment deserves the 5 stars, he has given you the mayor "MUSTs" when in Lima.

I agree with the above..

My only comment is to be cautious in Lima.
Hide cameras, money, etc etc...

I couldn't write a better answer than MSDC's. Follow all his instructions, they are all true.
Maybe just one more: in downtown and Miraflores you will see some police officers with white suits (instead of the regular green uniform). They are Tourism Police so in case of doubt or problem talk to them, most of them speak english
Cheers and enjoy Lima

leave all your nice stuff home, (nike shoes, nice watch, jewelry...)lots of pickpocketing, always know where your wallet is, try not to carry a purse but a fanny or something like that. Travel with a local always. and tell your transport not to take the beach route (costa verde) that's where most assaults ocurr. specially at night which is when all US flights arrive.

I also agree with all of the above. Peru is one of the best places you will ever visit. Don't let the airport overwhelm you or frustrate you. When he said to get a taxi as soon as you can, he's not kidding. Every taxi driver in Lima will be there waiting for you. There's lots to see and lots to do. The beach is a very nice place to go.

Good luck buddy. It's not HOW the Peruvians treat you, it's the streets you should be worrying about. When I went to Lima, the traffic was terrible. Everyone honks, and no one follows the traffic rules. I mean, it's scary even crossing a street! Oh, make sure you take a taxi that has a certified taxi license. There are illegal drivers out there. And unlike America, you can bargain in Peru. If a guy says 10 soles, you could probably get it down to 5 soles. Just one last note- keep your wallet by your side at ALL TIMES and don't have a fanny pack! I should know! Have fun!