Two Mistakes
January 12th, 2006 by MikeIm happy to report we are now safely in the nice part of Lima, Miraflores. Or, as I like to call it, Little America. The mall on the bluff overlooking the ocean complete with a movie theater and Tony Romas restaurant is very western.
Our travels to here have been busy but safe, at least until yesterday. On the bus from Pisco, someone behind us encouraged us to put our bags above our heads. We said no, but a few minutes later he insisted, pointing out that the floor was wet. Realizing he was right, I let him toss my bag above our heads. I must admit that I was distracted by how nice the bus was and the movie that was playing. About 15 minutes later (after at least one stop) I got up to take a drink of water and found my bag was now a little behind us and was no longer full. The thief was able to open the bag, take out my cosmetic bag, another bag with cash and airline tickets, our camera and a pair of binoculars. Fortunately, the only irreplacable items are the pictures we took since leaving Huancayo. Its tough not to be mad, but we thank God we are safe and still have access to our money.
We thought he took my passport as well but I found it this morning. (My second mistake was to not keep my passport on me.) I guess it was a blessing in disquise that the US Embassy was closed by the time we arrived yesterday.
So, we may be here in Lima a little longer than expected as we see if I can get replacement glasses, a new camera, and a few other things.
January 12th, 2006 at 2:45 pm
I am soo sorry to hear of the theft, but are very grateful you guys are okay. I guess some people just don’t understand that you are doing a very nice thing and are there to help others. I hope you guys can get pass this misfortune and enjoy the rest of the time there. You are very lucky that the passport was not taken and you still have access to your money. Miss you very much!
I love the updates.
January 12th, 2006 at 7:13 pm
Do you have a concealable bag you can carry in your arm pit? That was the one item I bought in Italy after almost being robbed. Never depart from your most important travel documents, credit cards, cash or what ever you need, and do not show where you carry them to others.
It is a pity you lost the camera with pictures. Did the bus leave passengers out between the time you still got your bag full and when it was robbed? Perhaps the thief was still in the bus with you. You say you only departed from your bag for 15 minutes. Did you ask anyone around there if they saw anyone accessing your bag? Did you still see that helpful stranger who suggested putting the bag up in the first place?
January 12th, 2006 at 7:56 pm
Alicia and Mike,
Life’s little lessons. A little bump in a glorious ride! I suspect your adrenalin rose at first and feelings of intrusion and vulnerability rushed over you, but as you settled into the reality of the situation and looked back on the days happenings, did you have a different perspective? A feeling of impowerment! You can face adversity and master the situation! You are experiencing life defining situations which will make each of you individually, and you as a couple, stronger than you would ever have thought possible.
Here you are alone, husband and wife, in a foreign land, very limited communication, no friends, no family, you are confronted with what could have been a very dangerous, expensive situation. You calmly handled the situation, with minimul loss, you continue your adventure with a confidence that you can meet challenges head on and continue your once in a life time experience.
Next time put you bags over your head, in front of you.
Love,
Dad
January 13th, 2006 at 7:11 am
Alicia has been using a money belt. I picked up another one yesterday. Yes, I was very suspect of the people remaining on the bus, especially when the adrenaline was high. We believe the helpful stranger (thief) did get off the bus immediately after he struck it rich.
Thanks for the positive attitude Dad! Things are definitely getting better as we cool down and replace the items we need most. I was able to get my eyeglass prescription yesterday and by late today I should have a new pair of glasses. Today we will continue camera shopping, and thats not all that bad.