Yes, belle3388, There are bugs.

In places like the one described by Gabriel there is a roach-like insect that is the carrier of Chagas' disease, a chronic, difficult to treat illness, that fortunately is not contracted by a large number of travelers.

Thought I'd add:
I hope that I don't appear too negative in my posting in this thread, I've travelled in South America since the early '70's, keep going back, I recommend it to those interested! There are risks involved, and one should be aware of them.

[This message has been edited by Old Gold (edited 09-22-2000).]