Dr. Hansen's Peruvian Adventure

 

Dr. Hansen and his wife, Katie, got back last night from a seven day vacation!  Believe me, it was a much deserved seven day break for the both of them.  Seven days without work, seven days without kids, seven days in a beautiful tropical oasis!  Oh wait, that's my dream vacation! OK, all of that is true except for the last part...  Dr. Hansen and Katie decided not to take my advice and go somewhere "tropical" and "relaxing" for their vacation.  They decided to take "the road less traveled"or as I like to call it... The "Man vs. Wild" vacation.  The majority of their vacation was spent hiking, sleeping on the ground and stepping over poisonous snakes and bugs.  If you don't have a good mental picture yet go turn on your TV and watch an episode of "Survivor Man". 

Dr. Hansen and his wife traveled to Urubamba Valley, Peru where they met a group of friends whom I can only assume are all big fans of the Discovery Channel as well.  Machu Picchu is a 15th Century Inca site located 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level.  Often referred to as "The Lost City of the Incas", it is perhaps the most familiar icon of the Inca World (or so Wikipedia says).  I'm going to attach a link to the Wikipedia page on Machu Picchu... that way I can stop plagiarizing.  My high school english teacher would be ashamed!  

Four days and nights Dr. Hansen, Katie and their friends hiked straight up a mountain!  With backpacks stuffed to the brim they stopped only to eat and sleep... stragglers were left behind.  In all honesty I'm not 100% sure on the accuracy of my last comment but that's what happens in the movies, so I can only assume.  Dr. Hansen did say that even though the trip was physically demanding it was as equally rewarding.  From the above image you can see Machu Pichhu is a very beautiful and picturesque place.  It is no wonder why the Inca's decided to build their most famous city atop it.  Talking to Dr. Hansen it sounded like the two of them had an amazing time.  From sampling new and "different" cuisines to enjoying an outrageously fun adventure with Katie and some of their closest friends to going the better part of a week without a shower... how could he not!?!  Everyone in the office is looking forward to see pictures from their exciting adventure to Peru. As I learn more about the trip I will share more stories with you.  Stay tuned, pictures to come.

Machu Picchu Link (as promised) : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Machu_Picchu,_Peru.jpg