Yes, Nikky takes a while to answer emails. That's a bit frustrating. I had doubts about transferring money as well, but there are a lot of reasons for this (One is that you get taxed after bringing in more than $10,000 into Peru), and I did my research, and finally, just figured, you have to take a chance, no? Also, I know that there are other programs in south america that require the same transfer. There are a few really good spanish immersion programs that my friends have done where you have to transfer all the money prior to going. So I knew about that as well.
South America is just different, it's not bad, or wrong. My best friend is from Chile, and a good friend, (and an ex girlfriend) are from Venezuela, so I know what these countries are like. I have another friend from Peru, who grew up in Lima, and now lives in Los Angeles. She prefers the medical care there more in Peru than here. Another friend of mine (American) had his nephew live in Lima for a year, and he also said that the medical care was "top notch".
My problem wasn't ever with Peru, as it's one of the places I really want to see anyway. (Too bad I will be in no condition to see Machu Pichu). My problem was with a company so new, and little information about the doctors on their site. But after talking to a few people who went there, and researching things on google's peru site. (
www.google.com.pe) everything checked out.
Besides, Lima is the capital city and has a lot to offer. I'm sure if you go into the very small villages then yes, you will find some dirtier conditions... but check around your own country. Those areas exist there too.
Well, hope this helps. I'm a gringa who was born and raised in Chicago, and lives now in Miami. I am excited to see Lima and experience the culture..... oh, and have some surgery.
