Basically, FOMO. The focal point of our trip to Peru is visiting Machu Picchu, which is near the top of many travel bucket lists. Given that we’ve been to South America three times, it’s surprising we hadn’t made it to Machu Picchu yet.

Part of it had just been timing. We like to go to Latin America in January, when it’s warm there and cold in New Jersey. But January is the rainy season in that part of Peru, so not the best time to visit. (That said, our friend Ellen had a great experience at MP in January, so you never know when it comes to weather.) In addition, I was concerned that the popularity of the place (i.e., crowds) would take away from the experience. But we won’t know until we try.

I’m also excited to visit the sites that don’t get as much attention as MP, but sound equally intriguing. And the city of Cusco itself, once the center of the Incan empire, looks fascinating.

So as Jim and I considered what we would do to celebrate our 40th anniversary, Machu Picchu came to mind. October is shoulder season, just out of the dry season, but before the rains really hit. We had a short travel window between our respective golf trips, but we could fit in the highlights in about ten days – so it seemed like the time was finally right.

So here’s to 40 years, and to exploring more history and culture!