CultureShock! Bolivia

Book excerpt: CultureShock! Bolivia provides readers with a thorough understanding of this South American country, a nation steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Containing pages of useful information, advice, tips and resources, this book will guide you through the social and psychic adjustment necessary when moving to Bolivia. Learn, first and foremost, how to deal with soroche (altitude sickness), then understand the importance to the Bolivians of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and how she influences festivals and joyous occasions. Discover how to interact with the many diverse cultures, from Kallawayas to Cholas and Cholos to Aymara and Quechua, to name a few. Adapt to the Bolivian concept of time, understand the Bolivian love affair with soccer, and adopt the light-hearted response needed with water balloons at fiestas. This guide will lead nature lovers through the paved trails used by Incas over 2,000 years ago.