Tuesday, July 10, 2018

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Teach Fitness Classes

Posted: 10 Jul 2018 05:00 PM PDT

Teaching fitness classes is the perfect job for exercise aficionados who want to help others get active. Rehearsing your class and practicing your leadership style will help your class run as smoothly as possible. As the instructor, how the class runs is up to you—you set the tone and intensity, so how you present yourself is important! Taking time to plan beforehand and take fitness teaching training will help you become the best instructor you can be for your classes.

EditSteps

EditBuilding Your Expertise

  1. Get certified as a fitness instructor. Most gyms like to hire instructors with recognized credentials. Train for a certification registered with the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) to strengthen your teaching skills and increase your professionalism.[1]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 1.jpg
    • Some fitness instructors also get certified in CPR or first aid in case of emergencies during their class.
    • In Canada, all certifications require Basic First Aid and CPR as a prerequisite before you can even take the instructor training.
  2. Look for fitness instructor openings at your local gym. Apply for an open job listing or contact gyms directly to see if any of them need new instructors. If not, talk to them about volunteer opportunities. Some gyms look for instructors to teach classes for free or in exchange for a membership.
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 2.jpg
  3. Find a workout mentor who can advise you on your teaching skills. Ask a more experienced fitness instructor if they could sit in on one of your classes. Have them take notes on what you're doing well and where you could improve for future classes.
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 3.jpg
    • It's best to have a formal mentor who has a certification that allows them to provide formal and written feedback about your performance. They will have a fee for their services, but you will know that you are getting good and appropriate advice.
    • Some areas may not require formal mentors to have a certification, so check the laws for your area.
  4. Attend other instructors' classes to learn new techniques. Everyone's teaching style is different, and you might learn new ways of motivating clients or organizing your classes. Sample a few classes at your gym and take notes afterward about what you liked, what you didn't like, and how you can adapt your classes based on your experience.[2]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 4.jpg
  5. Attend a fitness instructor convention. Register for a well-known fitness instructor convention to connect with other instructors and attend helpful teaching workshops. Getting to know more fitness instructors can expand your network and list of resources for teaching classes.[3]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 5.jpg
    • Read the convention schedule beforehand so you know where the classes most relevant to your interests will be.

EditRehearsing Your Classes

  1. Time your routine to make sure it fits within your class frame. Most gyms set their class times beforehand and require fitness instructors to stay within that frame, usually an hour or hour and a half. Plan a set number of exercises to do during the class and time how long it takes you to go through the routine. Adjust your schedule as needed to fit the time frame.[4]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 6.jpg
    • Keep in mind that you'll need to allow time for helping your students or correcting their form.
  2. Plan warm ups and cool downs into your routine. Get blood pumping, do dynamic stretches, and do range of motion exercises before and after your class's main exercises to help prevent your clients from straining muscles or burning out. Schedule in at least 5-10 minutes of warm ups and cool downs for a balanced workout.[5]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 7.jpg
  3. Make a playlist of catchy songs with a strong beat. Songs with repetitive, lively beats will be better at motivating your clients than, say, a crooning guitar solo. Make a playlist of songs that will last throughout the entire workout and distract your class from how their bodies feel.
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 8.jpg
    • If you don't know what to include, try searching a music streaming site like Pandora, Spotify, or YouTube.
    • Many classes have prescribed music playlists that you can download for a fee. Look for companies, such as Power music, that compile exercise class playlists with specific beats per minute that progress through an entire workout.
  4. Set up about 10 minutes before the class begins. If possible, start some music and turn on your microphone at least 5-10 minutes before the class starts. This will help the class atmosphere feel friendly and inviting from the start.[6]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 9.jpg
    • If any regulars come in early, ask them if they want to help set up so they feel involved.
  5. Check for technical difficulties before you start the class. Before the class comes in, start your playlist on your laptop or phone to make sure it runs smoothly. Always bring a back-up device (like a CD) in case your first option doesn't work.[7]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 10.jpg

EditConnecting With Your Clients

  1. Mingle with your clients before the class starts. Before you start each class, spend 5-10 minutes before it starts talking to regulars and getting to know new faces. Establishing yourself as friendly and approachable will increase the likelihood of people going to your classes again.[8]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 11.jpg
    • You might, for example, ask the whole class how their day was or if they have any fun plans for the weekend.
    • Make a goal each class to remember one thing that a class member tells you and ask them about it again the next time you see them.
  2. Introduce yourself at the beginning of each class. Tell the class your name and a sentence or two about your experience so they can feel connected to you. After you've introduced yourself, ask your class about any injuries, pregnancies, or health conditions they might have so you can keep an eye out for those clients.[9]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 12.jpg
    • You could say, for example, "Hello, my name is Taylor, and I've been a yoga teacher for three months here. Before we start the class, can I ask if anyone is pregnant or if there are any health conditions I should be aware of?"
  3. Shape your leadership strategy based on the class. Some clients prefer a "tough love," drill sergeant-like instructor while others prefer a kinder, gentler approach. Most will be somewhere along the spectrum. Pay attention to your class as a whole and on the individual level so you can adjust your encouragements to what they prefer.[10]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 13.jpg
    • As you get to know regular clients, you'll be able to remember what they respond well to.
  4. Watch for clients who seem to be struggling. If you notice a person or group of people who seem to be falling behind, go out of your way to encourage them. Pay attention to and respond to their reaction—if they want to be pushed hard, help them along but if they don't like the extra attention, let them exercise at their own pace.
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 14.jpg

EditBoosting Class Motivation

  1. Cultivate a positive teaching attitude. Staying positive will help get your clients through tough workouts. Be uplifting in the way you talk to your clients with phrases like, "You're doing great!" or "Just keep pressing forward!" Remember to smile at your class to show them that you're happy to be there with them.
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 15.jpg
    • If you seem tired or gloomy, your class may perceive this as disdain for them or the workout.
    • Don't take the workout too seriously. A good sense of humor can go a long way in lifting your class's spirits.
  2. Vary your tone of voice. If you shout at your class the entire time, your voice will get hoarse and your class may feel intimidated. But speaking softly for too long may cause your class to lose interest. Change the tone of your voice if you find yourself shouting or whispering too much to hold your class's engagement.[11]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 16.jpg
  3. Use verbal cues to inform your class about the exercises. Staying silent during the workout may leave your class confused about what they're doing. Give clear instructions to your class about what workout they're doing, how many reps they have to go, and what muscles that exercise is strengthening.[12]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 17.jpg
    • If you're doing squats with your class, for example, you might say, "These are great for your glutes! 3 more to go!"
    • A working knowledge of human anatomy can inform you on what muscles are being worked during exercises so you can cue in your class.
  4. Count down when doing exercise reps. If you count up (like, "1, 2, 3..."), your class will not know when the rep will end and lose motivation. Counting down (like "10, 9, 8...") can give your class a definite end so they can pace themselves and avoid burning out too soon.[13]
    Teach Fitness Classes Step 18.jpg
    • You might say, for example, "Alright, now we're going to do jumping jacks! 10, 9, 8..."
    • Keep a clock in plain sight so your class knows how much longer they have until the class ends. A clear finish time can boost your class's energy through difficult reps.

EditTips

  • Many gyms will cover your insurance, but sometimes you are expected to have your own policy. Check with your gym to find out if you need to buy insurance before you teach classes.
  • In the world of group exercise classes, there is no room for sick days or times when you just don't feel like exercising. Keep in mind that, while teaching fitness classes can be rewarding, it won't necessarily be fun all the time.
  • Usually, teaching fitness classes is a side gig rather than a full time job. If you're looking for a source of income, find another job to do alongside teaching classes.[14]
  • Part of being a fitness instructor involves maintaining good physical health. Take care of your body so you have enough energy to teach classes.
  • Like all teaching jobs, being a fitness instructor can sometimes feel thankless. Remember that even if your clients don't always tell you, you are helping people get in shape and build healthy lifestyles.[15]

EditSources and Citations

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How to Organize Bathroom Cabinets

Posted: 10 Jul 2018 09:00 AM PDT

Keeping your bathroom cabinets neat and orderly can be a challenge. And given the importance of the morning preparation that commonly starts the average day, knowing where to find things is a huge help. Luckily, by following a few simple organization tips, you can take charge of the messy state of your bathroom cabinets and keep your belongings as accessible as possible.

EditSteps

EditGetting Rid of the Clutter

  1. Remove all items from your counters and cabinets. Place them in a single pile. This will give you a general idea of the volume and inventory of items in the cabinets.[1]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Throw away items you're positive you don't need as you go.
  2. Discard or donate unused or old items. Throw any old, unused, or expired items into a trash bag. Keep an eye out for empty product containers or products that may have mildew forming, such as old shampoo and perfume bottles. Try and find things that you can do away with, including items that may still be in good condition, but you rarely or never use. Give away these items to people who can use them.[2]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 2 Version 3.jpg
    • Keep all of your essentials, like toothbrushes and hand soap, on the counter while you clean.
    • If you can't find willing friends to take your old items, drop them off at a local charity.
  3. Group the items you want to keep by category. The categories may differ depending on the variety of products that you own, but some examples are:[3]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • Facial skin care
    • Body care
    • Bath
    • Hair care
    • Makeup
    • Medicines
    • Oral care
    • Nail care
    • Shaving
    • Perfumes
  4. Obtain clear storage containers that will fit in your cabinets. Measure the space in your cabinets and the space that your items will take up in containers. This way, when you go shopping you can be sure that your items will fit into the containers, and the containers will fit in the cabinets. Container types may include plastic baskets, clear plastic containers with lids, or wicker baskets.[4]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 4 Version 3.jpg
    • You can also look for other kinds of containers around your home that you can re-purpose and use in your bathroom, such as metal cans, magazine holders, and see-through plastic orange juice containers.
  5. Fill each container with like items. For the items that you need to grab easily when you're on-the-go, see-through containers come in handy. Use lidded containers for smaller items that tend to create a clutter. Open-top containers are best for items like toothbrushes that fit vertically into containers (they don't have to be see-though).[5]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • Your local department store should have plenty of see-though container selection to choose from.
    • Stick to acrylic plastic containers. Glass works too, but limit them to holding items you won't need in a hurry to minimize the chances of them breaking.
  6. Label each container based on its category. Once you begin segregating your products, you're going to need labels to distinguish them. Adhesive labels work best for solid plastic, metal, or glass containers.[6]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • Standard tag labels work best for wicker baskets

EditMaking the Most of Your Space

  1. Remove drawers for easy access to toiletries. If you're bathroom has a vanity-style base cabinet, remove the fronts to create open shelves. Now, you can fill up the space with trays, baskets, or plastic containers that provide easier access to your toiletries. Label the containers to make things easier to find.[7]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • Purchase labels and tag each container with different categories, like "Hair Spray," "Bath and Shower," and "Scrubs and Sponges."
  2. Insert a pullout shelf underneath your bathroom sink. Purchase a two-tiered rollout shelf from a local home hardware store. The region under your sink often turns into a cluttered mess, but a pullout shelf can really help you make the most of the space by giving it some organization.[8]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 8.jpg
    • Try and find one with a narrow top shelf so that it easily glides by the plumbing.
    • A wide bottom shelf is ideal because it leaves room for tall items like brushes, straighteners, and cleaning products.
    • Purchase some adhesive lights to light up every corner.
  3. Hang a magnetic knife holder and adhesive containers onto the door. A knife holder can help you use your cabinet door to maximize space by providing room for bobby pins and metal nail tools. Apply adhesives (such as command strips) to the back of the knife holder and stick it to one side of the cabinet door. Stick your adhesive containers on the other side of the door and use them to hold smaller items like makeup and nail polish.[9]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 9.jpg
    • Be careful if you attach scissors and trimmers onto your magnet holder, especially when you're opening the cabinet door.
  4. Divide your smaller items into a party dip tray for organization. Place the trays into your drawers next to your towels and other small items. This is a cheap and simple way to get your lotions, lips balms, and other small essentials organized—even just one try per drawer is enough to make a difference.[10]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 10.jpg
    • Put a liner on the bottom of the drawer if you want to spice things up. For example, a herringbone liner makes a great match for a white party dip tray. Experiment with different kinds of colors and combinations.
  5. Place a spinning turntable into your deep cabinets for easy access. Also known as a Lazy Susan, these can make hard-to-reach items more accessible. Place some glass jars onto the turntable and label them with their contents. Cotton swabs, bath salts, cleaning wipes, and other products that come in bulk amounts are ideal for jars.[11]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 11.jpg
    • Cut out labels from a decal sheet and spell out the categories using adhesive letters.
  6. Conceal utilitarian items using wicker baskets for better aesthetic. Although these containers work for any kind of product, they're ideal for items that you don't want to display, like extra tissue paper stock. You can label each one by fixing paper tag labels to each basket with string.[12]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 12.jpg
  7. Install an extra curtain rod for towels. Position it under your current curtain rod and give yourself of space in-between. This is a prefect way avoid wet towels cluttering up your bathroom.[13]
    Organize Bathroom Cabinets Step 13.jpg
    • Mount the towel bar behind the curtain so that your towels can drip-dry into the tub.

EditVideo

EditThings You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Containers (plastic, metal, glass, wicker, etc.)
  • Sliding shelves
  • Adhesive lights
  • Magnetic knife holder
  • Adhesive containers
  • Party dip tray
  • Drawer liners
  • Decal sheet
  • Adhesive labels
  • Spinner tray (also called a Lazy Susan)
  • Towel bar

EditTips

  • It takes conscious effort to maintain the orderly state of your bathroom cabinets. Make an effort to return your items to their proper places after use.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

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How to Travel to Peru

Posted: 10 Jul 2018 01:00 AM PDT

Peru is home to the Andes, Maccu Piccu and many other exciting and beautiful locations. A trip to Peru is a journey you will never forget, but it requires some careful planning. Make sure you have flights and hotels reserved before you go. Bring the right gear for your trip, including clothing, shoes, and money. Once in Peru, be mindful of local practices as you see both ancient and modern wonders.

EditSteps

EditBooking Your Trip

  1. Research the best times of year to visit. The tourist season in Peru is May to September. When deciding when to take your trip, consider weather as well as when attractions are open.[1]
    Travel to Peru Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • June to August is the driest part of the year, ideal for hiking the Inca Trail and seeing Machu Picchu.
    • The months between March and May or September and November are ideal for tourists who want to avoid the high season but who don't mind a little rain. These are good times to visit Arequipa or the rainforests.
    • Between December and February, many trails, including the Inca Trail, are closed. This is the rainy season in Peru, and it is also the least busiest time for tourists. Many people enjoy the beach and coastal areas during this time.
  2. Book a flight to Lima. Most flights go into Lima, the capital city. You can get flights from anywhere in the world to Peru. Use travel comparison sites to find the best deal. Remember that you may have a few layovers when traveling.[2]
    Travel to Peru Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • If flying from the U.S., expect a ticket to cost around $1000-1500 USD. Direct flights leave from Newark, Atlanta, Miami, and Houston.
    • From Canada, flights typically cost between $900-1500. All direct flights leave from Toronto, which is an 8-hour trip.
    • Travelling to Lima from the UK can take between 16 and 22 hours. These flights cost between £750–£1200. As of 2018, there are no direct flights from the U.K. to Peru.
    • Flights from Australia and New Zealand can cost around $2800-4000 AUS or $3600-5000 NZ. You will need to switch planes at some point in the journey.
  3. Reserve rooms in a hotel or hostel. Always read reviews of your hotel or hostel online to make sure it is clean, safe, and legitimate. Reserve the rooms for your stay ahead of time so that you can go straight to your lodgings from the airport.[3]
    Travel to Peru Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • Budget hotels can start at 40 Sol ($12.50 USD) while a high-end hotel room might be around 300 Sol ($93 USD) a night.
    • Hostels typically cost around 24 Sol ($7.50 USD) a night. Look for well-reviewed hostels online. Check their location on a map to see if they're close to tourist destinations.
  4. Contact a travel agency to help you plan your trip. An authorized tourist agent can help you plan your trip and make sure you see popular attractions. They may also offer discounts that you can't find anywhere else. Tell the travel agent your dates of travel and budget.
    Travel to Peru Step 4 Version 2.jpg
  5. Sign up for a guided tour of Peru if you want easy transportation. If you're anxious about traveling in a foreign country or if you want an easy, stress-free trip, a guided tour may be right for you. This tour will be conducted in your own language with other tourists. You may travel by bus directly to popular locations. Some tours even handle booking flights and hotel rooms for you.[4]
    Travel to Peru Step 5.jpg
  6. Vaccinate yourself against infection. Malaria prevention is recommended before traveling. Additionally, yellow fever vaccinations are necessary if you plan on visiting jungle regions, such as Iquitos or Manu National Park.[5]
    Travel to Peru Step 6.jpg
    • To get a vaccination, call your doctor and tell them that you are planning to travel to Peru. Your doctor will order the proper vaccinations or refer you to a doctor who can give them to you right away.
  7. Purchase travel health insurance. Most health insurance plans won't cover international travel. Call your health insurance provider to see if they offer a plan that will cover you during your trip in Peru. Some travel agents may also sell travel insurance with a health plan.[6]
    Travel to Peru Step 7.jpg
    • These plans generally will cover illness, injury, sudden death, or medical evacuation (in case of an emergency).

EditPacking for your Trip

  1. Obtain a passport or visa if needed. Passports can be obtained at post offices around the country. If staying for longer than 90 days or visiting Peru for work, study, or research , you need to acquire a travel visa via the Peruvian consulate.[7]
    Travel to Peru Step 8.jpg
    • If you already have a passport, you need at least 1 blank page for your stamp into Peru. If you've run out of pages, contact your national embassy or passport agency.
  2. Buy an electrical adapter for Peru's outlets. Electrical outlets in Peru operate at 220 volts. Plugs also have a different shape than they do in the U.S. or U.K. Make sure to bring electrical adapters and transformers so that you can charge your phone and computer.[8]
    Travel to Peru Step 9.jpg
    • You can buy adapters and converters at electronics stores, luggage stores, or online.
    • Peru uses flat 2-pronged plugs, similar to the type used in the U.S., or rounded 2-pronged plugs, similar to the type used in Europe (but not the U.K). Some U.S. plugs won't fit Peru's electrical sockets, however.
  3. Take extra medication just in case you get sick. If you take prescription medication, bring extra just in case you are delayed. Anti-diarrhea medication, such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol, is a good idea as well. If you're hiking the Inca Trail, bring ibuprofen or acetaminophen for altitude sickness.[9]
    Travel to Peru Step 10.jpg
    • While you may be able to purchase some medication in Peru, you may not recognize the brands. It is easier to bring it with you from your home country.
  4. Bring clothing dependent on the time of year and location of your stay. Peru is a large country with many different regions. Research your destination to learn what you should bring with you. In general, a light jacket, raincoat, comfortable pants, and t-shirts are needed.[10]
    Travel to Peru Step 11.jpg
    • Pack for varying temperatures if visiting the Andean highlands. The temperature can drop quickly in the highlands, so bring heavy clothing and coats, especially if visiting the highest elevations.
    • Bring cool clothing and rain gear if visiting the Eastern lowlands. Temperatures can reach , and much of the year is hot and rainy. At night, a light jacket will be necessary.
    • Pack for warmth if visiting the Pacific Coast. Bring lighter jackets for the winter. Pack shorts and short sleeves or cooler clothing year-round.
    • Dress for mild weather and rain if visiting the central or southern coast.
  5. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Many of the attractions in Peru require some walking and physical exertion. Bring hiking boots or other sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with a rubber sole.[11]
    Travel to Peru Step 12.jpg
    • If you're going to the beach or coastal regions, make sure to pack sandals as well.
  6. Change your money to Nuevo Sol. Many shops and restaurants in Peru will not accept credit cards. It is best to carry small bills of Nuevo Sol, the currency of Peru. Before you leave, exchange your money at a bank, airport, or currency exchange. In Peru, you can also exchange currency at some hotels.[12]
    Travel to Peru Step 13.jpg
    • To get Sol in your home country, visit a currency exchange or bureau de change. These are housed in airports, banks, and some post offices. You will pay them money and a fee in exchange for Sol in cash.
    • Many places in Peru will accept the U.S. dollar. While it is best to use Nuevo Sol, carry some dollars with you just in case.
    • Denominations of 50 Sol or less will be most convenient.

EditGetting Around Peru

  1. Pass through border control when you arrive in Peru. When you land, you will be taken immediately to customs. Wait in line and fill out any forms given to you in line. When you are called to the window, show the agent your passport and your return ticket.[13]
    Travel to Peru Step 14.jpg
    • They may ask you if you have anything to declare. You must declare any cash over $10,000 USD.
    • Your return flight out of Peru is your proof of exit. If you are leaving Peru by bus or boat to another South American country, show the customs agent your tickets or reservations. If you don't have proof that you intend to leave the country, you may be denied entry.
    • In some cases, you may be selected for a random search of your belongings. You may be denied entry or even arrested if you try to bring in drugs, weapons, plants, animals, or pesticides.
  2. Use only official, licensed taxis to get around. Only get into taxis that have "taxi" signs on top of the card. The license plate on the front of the car should have a yellow strip on the top with a Peruvian flag. Ask to see the driver's taxi license, which should be hanging from their mirror.[14]
    Travel to Peru Step 15.jpg
    • Taxis in Peru do not run on meters. Ask your taxi driver up front what the fare will be. Don't be afraid to haggle. Typically, a cab from the airport into Lima will cost around 40 Sol (or $12.50 USD).
    • Some unregistered taxis will have a sticker on the window or dashboard that says "Taxi." These are not official licensed taxis. Do not get into these cars.
    • Taxi drivers in Peru are often paid to bring travelers to certain hotels. They may try to tell you that your booked hotel is closed or a bad place to go. This is a common scam. Insist that you are taken to your proper hotel or take another taxi.
  3. Use ride sharing apps like Uber to get around. If you're nervous about identifying taxis in Peru, Uber is an option in major cities like Lima and Cusco. Pull up your Uber app and call a ride, just as you would do in your home country.[15]
    Travel to Peru Step 16.jpg
  4. Take buses to travel between cities. Buses offer 1 of the cheapest ways to go between cities in Peru. There are several major bus lines between Lima, Cusco, and other cities. You can buy tickets online before your journey or in person before you get on.[16]
    Travel to Peru Step 17.jpg
    • Peru Hop caters to foreign tourists traveling Peru. It travels between Lima and Cusco, with stops in Nazca and Arequipa. It stops outside many major hotels.
    • Cruz del Sur is a reputable and established bus company that can take you to any major city. The drivers likely won't speak English, however.
    • There is an airport shuttle that goes from the Lima airport into the city. This is called Airport Express Lima. It travels every 30 minutes and takes tourists to Miraflores, near many hotels.
    • Keep your belongings close while traveling on buses in Peru. Theft is common on buses and in bus depots.
  5. Use collectivos with caution. A popular form of transport among locals, collectivos are mini-buses that provide local and long-distance transit. These are a cheap way to get around in Peru, but they are not the safest. Accidents with collectivos are common, and there is a higher likelihood of theft on them.[17]
    Travel to Peru Step 18.jpg

EditSightseeing in Peru

  1. Book early to see Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is one of the most famous ancient sites in the world. To reach this destination, visit the historic city of Cusco. Reserve your trip months in advance, as tickets can book up quickly.[18]
    Travel to Peru Step 19.jpg
    • Get your tickets on the official government website here: http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/. You must pay with a Visa credit card. If you don't have 1, print out your reservation and pay at any branch of Banco de la Nación de Peru once you are in Peru.
    • Alternatively, hire a guided tour. These tours will purchase the tickets for you, but be wary of scams. Research your tour company ahead of time. Do not purchase tour tickets off the street in Peru, as these may be scams.
    • To get to Machu Picchu, take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. There are many trains that leave each day, but it is also advisable to book in advance through Peru Rail or Inca Rail.
  2. Get a permit to hike the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail starts at Sacred Valley in Cusco and ends at Machu Picchu. It takes several days to complete. Only 500 people a day are given permits to hike this trail. To get a permit, you must hire a guide through a government sponsored tour company.[19]
    Travel to Peru Step 20.jpg
    • These tour companies include Andean Treks, Mountain Travel Sobek and Peru Sur Nativa. You can verify if a tour company is legitimate by checking the Machu Picchu website at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/.
    • The Inca Trail is an extremely difficult hike. Only experienced hikers should attempt it.
  3. Go on a plane tour to see the Nazca Lines. The Nazca lines are ancient designs built into the ground. To see them, visit the cities of Pisco or Nazca. Hire a flight tour to soar over the lines and see their brilliant designs.[20]
    Travel to Peru Step 21.jpg
    • To check the safety of the tour company you are using, ask for the flight registration information. Search this information on a website like Aviation Safety Network. This will show you the history of the airplane you may be going on.
    • You can book a flight ahead of time online by searching for Nazca line tours.
    • Be wary that these flights may cause air sickness.
  4. Visit the Islas Flotantes de los Uros. This floating city is the home of the Uros people. Once there, you can see their wonderful boats and learn about their unique culture. To get there, go the city of Puno and pay for a boat tour. This tour will take about 2 hours to reach the Islas Flotantes at Lake Titicaca.[21]
    Travel to Peru Step 22.jpg
    • To avoid being scammed, do not buy a ticket before you arrive. Pay when you are at the boat.
    • Look up reputable tour companies ahead of time online. Read reviews to make sure your trip will be safe and legitimate.
  5. Explore Lima to see its museums and plazas. Peru has some beautiful architecture. The city of Lima is a cosmopolitan center with plenty to see and do. Spend some time seeing the churches, plazas, and art of Lima before you go. Some great places include:[22]
    Travel to Peru Step 23.jpg
    • Museo Larco: a museum with a famous gallery devoted to erotic sculptures.
    • Miraflores District: a beautiful beach district with good dining and memorable sights.
    • Plaza de Armas (sometimes known as Plaza Mayor): the historical center of Lima.
    • Convento de San Francisco: an old church with both a stunning library and deep catacombs.

EditLearning Peruvian Customs

  1. Memorize a few simple Spanish phrases. Spanish is the national language of Peru, so be sure to brush up on your Spanish before travelling. Bring an English to Spanish phrasebook on your trip to make communication easier or download an app like Google translate. Some simple phrases include:[23]
    Travel to Peru Step 24.jpg
    • Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?
    • Where is the bathroom?: Dónde está el baño?
    • How much does it cost?: Cuánto cuesta?
    • I do not understand: Yo no comprendo.
  2. Try the local food and drink. Peruvian cuisine is delicious, fresh, and locally sourced. Make sure to try some of their unique and tasty dishes while you're in the country. Some great things to try include:[24]
    Travel to Peru Step 25.jpg
    • Cuy: a dish of guinea pig, often served roasted.
    • Ceviche: raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices.
    • Pisco: a grape brandy that can added to many cocktails.
    • Pollo a la brasa: A rotisserie chicken that comes with many dips.
  3. Carry bottled water with you to avoid drinking tap water. The tap water in Peru can make many travelers sick. Many hotels will give you bottles of water in your room. Use these to brush your teeth, wash food, and drink. Also make sure to buy bottled water to carry with you as you travel.[25]
    Travel to Peru Step 26.jpg
  4. Throw your toilet paper in the trash can, not the toilet. When you travel, you should see trashcans next to every toilet. Toss your toilet paper in these bins instead of flushing it down the toilet. Some of the pipes in Peru will clog if toilet paper is flushed.[26]
    Travel to Peru Step 27.jpg

EditWarnings

  • Keep your belongings close to you at all times. Tourists may be targeted for robberies and theft.
  • Smash-and-grab robberies, where a robber breaks the window of a car and grabs your belongings, are not uncommon. Keep your belongings close to you at all times.

EditSources and Citations

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