Settling In 123of travelling in Bolivia more than compensate for the slightly
greater risk, but this is a personal decision that I would not
impose on others.
The quality of service with Lloyd Airlines of Bolivia (LAB)
seemed to decline following its privatisation by a then
bankrupt Brazilian airline. LAB’s on-time rate is imperfect,
but this has more to do with Bolivia’s weather and geography
than any ineffi ciency on the part of the company. One fl ight
may depend on the arrival of another which has been delayed
because of poor weather conditions. Lloyd’s safety record
remains admirable.
In diffi cult airports, notably Sucre’s, where planes skirt the
hills to land, fl ights are delayed or postponed if the visibility
is not completely acceptable. Lateness is preferred to a
potential fatal accident. To Sucre’s credit, its airport has never
experienced an accident involving takeoff or landing.
Enjoy the Unpredictability
My wife and I were once obligated to remain in Sucre an extra day
when all fl ights were cancelled because of poor visibility. Our added
time in that exquisite city was greatly appreciated. We knew when
we came here that the unpredictability index in Bolivia is higher than
in the United States or Europe.Smaller lowland airports may be closed from one moment
to the next during the rainy season due to fl oods, so take a
few extra pairs of underwear just in case.
CLOTHING
Choice of clothing based on the weather should be made
according to the travel advisory section in Chapter One.
Dressing in layers is especially practical for the highland
climate where the temperature varies so much from day to
night, from sunlight to shade, and from one level of an urban
area to another.
If you expect to cavort with business or social elites,
some formal attire will be necessary. Highland cities are
more likely to require formal dress. In birthday gatherings
of middle class families, men often wear ties. Weekends