Pucon was lovely. You can tell it's pretty much there for tourism... lots of expensive boutiques, cafes, and restaurants... but sometimes that is just what the doctor ordered, and it is in the most beautiful setting. The town is right on a large lake and there is a beautiful snow capped volcano looming over the other side of town. It's very green with mountains all around. The perfect spot to relax, take a nice stroll, sit on the lake shore, and drink lots of nice coffees.
Pucon is known for adventure sports... kayaking, rafting, zip-lining etc. We did none of these. Pucon is also known for a number of nearby hotsprings. Picture five natural stone pools of varying temperatures set alongside a river... sound of water rushing by... stars overhead... so peaceful... oh, yes, this we did.
We also tried yerba mate while in Pucon. This is a strong tea like beverage that you drink from a gourd while it's still very hot. It is quite bitter. You drink the whole cup through a special straw and then pass to the next person and the cup is refilled. Andy was less than enthused about the flavor... Evan thought it was great.
After another night bus back up north, we write from a city called Valparaiso. It sits on the coast about an hour and a half west of Santiago. It is known for being a city built on 42 hills. It is also famous for its very colorful houses and the ramshackle funiculars that ferry people up and down the hills. These things combined make it unique enough to be classed a UNESCO world heritage site.
We arrived this morning and checked into our lovely and friendly B&B... they served us breakfast and briefed us on the city. We were warned to be cautious as all the old architecture makes for alot of dark alleyways and staircases where muggings occur. Following our hosts clear guidelines, we explored this unique city without incident.
In keeping costs low, we have often been shopping and eating at supermarkets. The supermarkets in Valparaiso have a unique way of using shopping baskets - here is the method modelled by granny A.
Hi Andrew & Evan, Well, I've been catching up with your adventures all in one go. It sounds as though you have had a fabulous time and seen some truly beautiful places. I'll really look forward to hearing all about it when you get back to Bellingham. Enjoy the rest of your trip
ReplyDeleteHelen xxx p.s yes, the chihuahaus come good in the end, don't fret
Hi Andrew and Evan,
ReplyDeleteWell I've caught up with your adventures in one go. It looks as though you have been having an amazing experience judging by the stories you have to tell and the pictures. Long may it continue. I'm really looking forward to hearing all about it from you both. Enjoy the rest of your trip. And don't fret, those chihuahuas make it through ok! Much love Helenxx