Went to the Admirals lounge in JFK via the Citi Prestige card. This would be the first of 6 lounges we would encounter on this trip, due to the Prestige/Priority Select combo. The lounge was fairly disappointing, especially since they pulled the hummus off the table 30 minutes before the official closing at 11pm. At least I got a pre-flight shower in. Once in line for the flight I noticed many passengers that 'seemed like' ddfrs. Sparked up a few convos and they indeed were. All nice people. I would imagine a dozen on my flight booked through DD.com
First flight was on LAN in Y JFK-LIM. Had a 4.5 hour layover in Lima, and ended up paying one of the Mercedes Benz Taxis to take us on a quick tour of the city center. Since it was early in the morning most business's were closed. Fortunately we got a chance to stop at the Sheraton for some great pisco sours before heading back to the airport.
Next flight was LAN LIM-IGU, we arrived around 6pm. Since we were staying at the Belmond located in the park, we took a taxi to the main gate for the national park for less than $10. Through industry connections, I got the travel agent rate of $250 a night. Then we got on the Belmond shuttle for another 10 minute ride to the hotel. Right when you pull up to the front of the hotel, you can see and hear the waterfall. Since it was dark, I didn't really 'see' it until the next day. From the Brazil side all you need is about 1-2 hours to see everything. We also did the heli tour and went to bird zoo, which was fun.
Stayed for 2 nights and had a great time at the Belmond. The actual rooms don't seem like 5 star, but the rest of the hotel was spectacular. Yes, I could see the falls from my room window, which was pretty awesome. Spent some time laying by the pool which was very nice. Also great buffet for dinner and breakfast.
After we checked out, took a taxi for about $40 usd across the border to Puerto Iguazu. Stayed 1 night at the Grand Crucero for about $120 usd. Obviously a downgrade from the Belmond, but perfect for the location and price. I would recommend.
We made the decision last minute to experience the Argentine side of the falls, and it was the best decisions of the trip. Was a bit bummed it was raining in the morning, but we entered the park around noon, and still got to see the Diablos throat falls from above (DO NOT MISS THIS) and hike most of the trails, as well as the boat experience, in which you get completely drenched (Very Fun). Spent about 4 hours till the closing of park. It's easy to spend an entire day there. Walked to the Sheraton from the park, and had a Quilmes and burger while enjoying amazing view ( all while still soaking wet from boat ride)
. Besides that view, the Belmond is better in every other category for those wondering. IMO of course.
IMO there is no doubt that the Argentinian side is the better experience in comparison to the Brazil side. My best advice would be not to fly all the way down there and not experience the Argentina side of falls. Brazil has the amazing views, but the experience is wrapped up in 1-2 hours. I started getting bored. Argentina side is a 4+ hour, very unique experience to be in and around the falls. Not just looking at them.
to be continued.......
