Mortal Coil

We are presently on a small boat heading out into Lake Titicaca for a day trip to the Isla del Sol, the legendary birthplace of the Inca people. We have, perhaps foolishly, signed up for a 5 mile walking tour from the north to the south of the island. I say perhaps foolishly as we are finally suffering some effects from the altitude. Lake Titicaca, at 12,700 is only 700 feet higher than La Paz, but it seems to make a difference to us. A walk of 50 feet with a few steps leaves you panting. So 5 miles will be interesting. A number of our fellow travelers have brought along (legal) bags of coca leaves which, when placed in the cheek, give one a coffee-level buzz which may serve them well on the journey today.