Saturday, June 30, 2012

Send Me Free Text Messages

I have my own cell phone while I'm down here and the service I am will allows for free text messages.  To send me free text messages directly to my cell phone, go to http://www.nuevatel.com/ and click on “Envía SMS”.  It costs nothing for either party.  My number in Bolivia is 601 077 62, if they ask for a prefix, you will use 591 (that is the prefix for cell phones in Bolivia).  Equally, if you want to call me on that number, feel free.  I will have rotations Monday through Friday, but should be free in the evenings and possibly on the weekends.  The time is the same in Bolivia as it is in DC.

My Arrival

I arrived into La Paz, Bolivia around 5 AM EST time (currently the same time in Bolivia).  My flight with Avianca was very good (they feed you all the time and I forgot that for international flights, the alcohol is FREE, don't worry, I only had 2 drinks).  I met two other girls on my flight, Ines (de Puerto Rico) y Jody (de California).  When we arrived at La Paz airport, our driver, Carlos was patiently waiting for us.  He took me to my host family first, in the Florida building con Martha Gumucio.  She's a retired woman who lives alone in her beautiful apartment.  She welcomed me with tea and cookies, but only sat with her for 5 minutes because I was exhausted and only wanted to sleep (and I'm sure she was too since she had been waiting up for me all night).  The altitude has not effected me like I thought it would, but there are times where taking breaths is a bit difficult, but thankfully no dizziness.

Today, I woke up at noon to a wonderful lunch prepared by Martha -soup, chicken, veggies and bread.  I've settled in already and I'm all ready to explore La Paz.  I've exchanged some money (Martha brought me to her local tender to get the best exchange rate) and I've got a cell phone, but currently don't really have anyone to call, haha.

Highlight of today (1st day in Bolivia) - leave it to me to go to un partido de fütbol on my first day.  It was between two local teams - Bolivar v 'The Strongest' - Score was 4-0 Bolivar.  I have pictures to share already but need to find a place that will read my SD card.  I will post pictures once I figure this out.  Adios for now.