There are warnings about pick-pockets and muggers being on the streets here in Cusco. Well, I would like to warn people of the possibility of being robbed in a money changing office, of which there are many.
I wanted to change $200 which worked out to 555PEN (peruvian soles). The teller counted it out and handed it to me but as I had been walking around in the cold, when I went to check the money, my fingers were not working too well. The teller asked me to hand the notes back to him and counted the money slowly in front of me. All seemed well so I put the money in my pocket and left.
I had only gone a short distance when I realised how stupid I had been and took out my wallet and recounted the money. Sure enough, there were 100PEN missing. I counted the money several times to make sure.
Although, it was partly my fault for not checking, and their are signs advising you to do so, I decided I was not going to let him get away with it. I was not confident of getting the money but at least I would have something to say about it. However, he was not surprised to see me come back into the office and gave me my money without an argument. I imagine it is a regular thing for him and probably, there are people who never go back.
Another lesson learned.
Today I am off to the jungle, at Puerto Maldonado. Only staying 2 nights. On Saturday, I am heading for Puno and Lake Titicaca.
Puerto Maldonado (Photo credit: Nouhailler)
Uros people harvesting some “totora” (Schoenoplectus californicus ssp. tatora) on Lake Titicaca, Peru. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
pete cable 
I enjoy looking at nice pictures and reading what you experience. Good luck with the rest of the trip in South America.
Hi Oddvar,thanks for the comment. I hope you are keeping well.
Hi Peter, My dad and his family are from Southampton (I had a favorite Uncle Peter!) My cousins live spread out from there to London currently, with one living in Durley. I love it there, but my dad married an American and I was born and raised in California. I now live in Denver. I have taught elementary Spanish for 20 years and have traveled extensively in Central America, Ecuador and Peru.
I enjoyed your blog! I just returned from 2 weeks in Peru and am beginning to plan a 6-8 month stay there with my 8 and 10 year old boys. I wonder if you would answer some questions for me? If you wouldn’t mind communicating with me privately, I would really appreciate some “insider” tips! Where we should locate (Cusco, Ollaytatambo or Pisac?) and if you are familiar with the quality of the Spanish Language schools? I have many more questions and have had no luck connecting with anyone on any expat sites.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences!
Jen de Loe