What would you do? travel question?

Question

An overweight, out-of-shape client who has a history of heart problems comes to you with a request to visit Machu Picchu. He just read a glowing travel article about this spectacular site. Budget is not an issue. However, due to the possible effects of altitude and amount of strenuous walking required to visit the site, you feel it wise to dissuade the traveler from going to that particular destination.

Describe what you would say to the client to “pleasantly” advise against such a trip, while at the same time offering another very spectacular alternative in Latin America that would be a wiser choice considering his health.

Answer 1

It's not really your responsibility to persuade him not to take the trip. You only need to advise him of the difficulty. After that, it's up to him. You can't protect people from themselves if they're really determined to be stupid. Hopefully, this person simply isn't aware of the difficulty and will reconsider when tactfully presented with the facts.

The trick, of course, is to present the message without insulting the person by suggesting that he's overweight. You might try a generic-sounding warning that conveys the message without making it personal.

"I want you to be aware that visiting Machu Picchu requires a strenuous walk at high altitude. It's generally recommended only for travelers who are in excellent health and are accustomed to walking in challenging conditions. I always suggest to my clients that they consult with their physician before going unless they're in excellent health and accustomed to strenuous activity. I can suggest some very nice alternative destinations if your doctor advises against it."