DAY 1 - The Joy and Mystery lies in the Journey!

Day 1
Arrive in Mendoza, Argentina and check into The Park Hyatt - altitude 760m.

So far the international travel has been very smooth for the team. All the bags have arrived successfully. Ray flew via Sao Paulo and managed to check into a Airport Hotel for a shower and a nap before heading across to Buenos Aires and met up with some of the team for the first time. We will get a full team picture soon. (watch this space)

Final 2 hr flight to Mendoza and time to relax after an exhausting trip to South America. They get to exploring the charming city of Mendoza, in the heart of the wine country. Always a highlight of this trip. This will be right up Rays' alley and it will drive him nuts that he cannot taste all those delicious wines in his reach - maybe when you get down. :)

Remember to keep contributing to Rays fundraising for The Sunflower Fund. 

Given Gain

Ray,Lauren,Roy,Alex

All bags arrive - HOORAY!

 (taken from the guideline booklet received from Alex Harris)
SOME THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

1.The summit of Aconcagua lies at a high altitude and requires a slow and methodical acclimatisation. Many variables can affect this, such as weather and personal conditioning. This means that it is abnormal to adhere 100% to some predetermined program. Thus, this booklet serves as a guideline as to the general ascent schedules as well as the various phases.

2. Take it slow! Both while hiking but also while doing normal things around camps. Try not to get out of breath.

3. Stay positive! This is an experience of a lifetime and you are privileged to be here. Make the most of it. The summit is the bonus but try and enjoy the journey.

4. Eat and drink lots! This will not be easy as you think, try drink abnormal amounts of water and make the most of the base camp mess tent!

Lastly, ability is sometimes the greatest of blessings. You are doing this simply, because you are able to.