I do enjoy the build up to a trip…. Over the past week or so, I’ve ticked off the following:
- joined the Austrian Alpine Club (UK), which means I benefit from their worldwide mountain rescue insurance (based on Mark Horrell’s post)
- sorted out my “general” travel insurance, via Direct Travel Insurance (recommended on Money Saving Expert)
- booked my seats on the flights to/from Lima (which you can do ahead of online check in with KLM – revelation! – so no need to set the alarm to be at the head of the seat selection rush when online check in opens, which is 2am-ish)
- sorted out an international consent letter, with Spanish translation, regarding Barney
- borrowed bottles, poles, gaiters, waterproof trews and Scrabble from Hazel
- notified the banks of the dates I’ll be in Peru
- started accumulating kit to pack on the spare bed – it’s just a small pile at the mo…
- bought a couple more rechargeable batteries for my camera, and a birthday present for Barney
Still to do:
- get some PEN
and USDfrom M&S Bureau de Change and USD from FairFX (better rate, secure delivery, excellent customer service) [added 28 June] - double check in person that the bank knows where and when I’ll be using my debit card
- head up to TJBR’s for a kit check and to make final arrangements
- pack!
In the meantime, I’m keeping an eye on the weather in Miraflores, Lima and Huaraz (via the excellent yr.no website)…. and Newgale as I’ve also got a weekend trip to Wales for Everest Trek Get Together No 7.