[Displaced Flames fan]

I've never been anywhere Sylvanfan, so I can't tell you based on firsthand experience. I'm like you, would love to do an extended backpacking/hiking deal. Of course, we live(d) where many people not as fortunate as ourselves go every year to do the same. Glacier and the Yoho/Banff/Jasper aren't going to do it for you in this scenario, though they do IT for me every single time I visit.

In any case, again...no first hand experience.....but of all that's been mentioned, I think your Peru idea is by far the best. I would imagine that a day at Macchu Pichu (sp?) would blow away pretty much anything else you could come up with at some beach. Couple that visit with actually walking to get there and you'll have an experience of a lifetime.

Go with your gut and visit Peru!