Friday, July 9, 2010
Smog
Smog. It was as bad as described, probably five years off my life span. At times unbearable, as here, when Sara covers up downtown, unable to take it anymore.
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Expedition Leader
Peter Allen: Despite his significant experience climbing in the Sierra Nevada and exploring Europe, some critics questioned his qualifications to lead the expedition to a South American country. In general, he answered his critics and strengthened his bid to lead future Allen family expeditions. Major shortcomings included often forgetting that it was not an expedition of one and wearing generally drab colors that made it difficult for his expedition team members to spot him from the typically great distances he placed between himself and his crew. Overall grade: A-
LOGISTICS
Ted Allen. A crafty veteran of numerous solo trips to Central and South America, he was at times overwhelmed by the need to arrive at consensus regarding daily plans. At times he abandoned his duties entirely out of mounting frustration with the inability to satisfy all team members. His knowledge of Lima restaurants cut a lot of time off searches for places to eat, but also resulted in some ill-fated choices that cost the team funds that could have been otherwise allocated. However, the team came home intact and generally healthy. Overall grade: B-
Interpreters
Sara and Ted. Generally provided reliable translation services. Ted ingratiated the team to the Inca Trail guide and porters with some very bad jokes in Spanish and Sara kept the team on target when Ted was off with Nidiana. Nidiana's Spanish was mostly helpful, although her tendency to drop the s at the of her words caused some locals to wonder if she really was a native Spanish speaker. Overall grade: A-
WINE AND CULINARY
Chaylee. A former wine director and current someiller, this team member's familiarity with even the most obscure wines and grapes helped the team find palatable local wines throughout the trip. This was especially important for maintaining the good humor of the Expedition Leader. We'd give her a higher grade if it were at all possible. Overall grade: A+
Artistic Support
Tahlia. A stained glass expert, this team member helped the team avoid lots of awful art aimed at tourists. She also proved her mettle on the tough Inca Trail, surviving not only the altitude but having to share a tent with Sara in the absence of Keith! Overall grade: A-
Dance and Cultural Expert
A late addition to the expedition team, Nidiana's sunny disposition and positive energy were invaluable to team morale. She also earns special recognition for being the only team member never to complain, truly an incredible feat! Her only demerit comes from leaving the team for the last three days to come home to work. Sara still would have preferred Keith, though. Overall grade: A+
Home Logistics: Communications
Marcie. The expedition's most loyal follower, her grade is off the charts! Overall grade: A+
Advance Scouting and Base Operations
Jeff and Susan. Seen here on the train to Machupicchu on the advance scout expedition, these team members were a bit lax in keeping contact with the team on the trail, but provided overall positive support. They also funded the teams big dinner at Astid y Gaston on the last night in Lima. They will be kept on board for future expeditions! Overall grade: A
Home Logistics: Negotiations
Mike and Candace. As a world-known experienced negotiator from Antartica to Nova Scotia, Mike was always available to fly in at a moments notice to assist with delicate negotiations. Fortunately this was not needed. Overall grade: A
Tax and Legal Consultant
Keith: A late scratch, Keith feared traveling in close proximity to the Allen's would ruin his career aspirations. Can he redeem himself in Portugal on the honeymoon? Until then his overall grade is: Incomplete
Home Logitics-Video and Photo
Rich. A noted filmaker, this team member funded Peter's Inca Trail pass; a major contribution without which the trip would not have been possible! He does not appear, however, to have logged in to keep up with the expedition, bringing his grade down slightly. Overall grade: A-
Base Operations: HIKING/FITNESS CONSULTANTS
Ken and Gretchen Wing. Sadly could not join the team on this expedition. We will hope to have them on future expeditions, though. Overall grade: A-
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