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Peru Useful Tips
Source : Comission for the Promotion of Peru
Currency and denominations
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/.) which is divided into 100 cents. Coins in circulation include the amounts of 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1, 2 and 5 Nuevos Soles. Paper bills come in 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Nuevos Soles.
US Dollars are accepted in most commercial establishments, restaurants and service stations, at the current exchange rate. Most of the establishments accept the most popular credit cards, such as Visa, Master Card, Diners and American Express. Travelers' Checks are used with some limitations. Inquire at the establishment as to whether or not they are accepted. To find out the exchange rate, please visit: http://www.xe.com/
Upon entering Peru
Present to the Immigration officer the International Embarkation / Disembarkation Card (given to the traveler in the airplane or at the Immigration Stand in the border area you are coming through). Keep the card, since you will have to turn it in when you leave the country. If you lose it you will have to pay a fine equivalent to US$ 4,00.
Customs officers will give you a form for you to declare any goods subject to customs duties you may be bringing in. If none, specify that you have nothing to declare. The following are exempt from duty: items and clothes for personal use, portable computers and adventure tourism gear http://www.aduanet.gob.pe/
Electric power
220 volts. Most four and five-star hotels provide 110-volt electric current
Language:
As part of its rich cultural tradition, Peru features many different languages. Although Spanish is commonly spoken across the country, Quechua is a major legacy of the Inca empire, and is still spoken with regional dialects in many parts of Peru. http://www.worldlanguage.com/
In addition, other languages are spoken such as Aymara (in Puno) and a startling variety of dialects in the Amazon jungle, which are divided up into 15 linguistic families and 43 different languages.
Vaccinations
If you plan on traveling to the Jungle, the administration of a yellow fever vaccine 10 days in advance is recommended. Please visit http://www.travelvacs.ca/ for further information.
Tourist Visas
This is not required for citizens of most countries in the Americas and Western Europe. Citizens of Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile do not need to have a passport or visa to visit certain regions in Peru. Inquire with the Peruvian consular representation in your country if you need further information. Their addresses and telephone numbers can be found in the web site of the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs http://www.rree.gob.pe .
Food and beverage
Peruvian cuisine offers a great variety of dishes typical of the Coast, the Highlands and the Jungle. Always first ask about their ingredients, since some dishes can contain hot pepper or be highly spiced. You will also find establishments where international food is prepared.
As far as drinks are concerned, try the very Peruvian Pisco (grape brandy) in any of its various recipes, as well as "chicha morada" (purple corn juice) "chicha de jora" (fermented red or yellow corn juice)and agüaje juice, made from a tropical Jungle fruit.
Security
Take normal precautions against pickpockets
Carry a copy of identification documents. Keep originals and your valuables in the safety deposit box of your hotel and make sure to list down what you deposit and verify the responsibility assumed by the establishment.
Carry valuables discreetly. Do not carry large amounts of cash. Keep an eye on your bags and luggage.
Do not carry suitcases, bags or sac packs on your back.
Do not exchange money out in the street.
Do not walk around late at night through areas with poor lighting or without a companion
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