Abstrakt
My research field is in the Peruvian capital of Lima, where I am doing investigation about privileged migration, which is very closely interconnected to lifestyle and romantic migration. The purpose of my fieldwork is to describe the character of this migration and the group of my informants.
They are mostly from Western Europe and United States and they are able to have in Peru - according to them - more fulfilling quality of life; they find much more opportunities in Peru than in their countries of origin. Most of them also admit, that they feel somehow privileged in Peru and that they are treated better way in several areas in comparison to Peruvian locals; mostly in search for work, public services and in partner relationships.
Being from Europe or United States and being "white" is viewed from their experiences as being more competent in the workplace than a local Peruvian and also more desirable in partner relationships; having foreign "white" partner raises the social status and image. On the other hand, they are treated differently when it comes to payment - they are charged higher prices on everyday experiences (in shops, taxis etc.).
This ambivalent position is very new for them and made feel most of them rather uncomfortable. These applied double standards are challenging for them; they could hardly be considered "local" no matter how hard they try to adapt, learn Spanish, have local friends etc.
They are always seen as the "gringos" with its negative and positive aspects.