Thursday, January 19, 2017

Farewell Valparaiso

For the last 5 days we have been perched on a hillside in the port city of Valparaiso, Chile. It is a jumble of historic Colonial history, architecture & cultural influence with colourful, often ramshackle houses tumbling down the many hills & ravines to the sea shore. This mix brings in many tourists who stay a day or two.
After our afternoon walking tour with a local guide, Filipe, a writer & cook, we felt very comfortable walking around ourselves, navigating via the major landmarks. The colourful murals are everywhere & various famous artists have contributed to make Valpo such an interesting destination. And getting fit walking the hills is a bonus!
We have feasted on fish dishes & thanks to Filipe got to know a super coffee spot! Coffee in Chile has largely been a poor substitute to our usual expectations. Caught a local bus to visit Pablo Neruda's house La Sebastiana, which has the most amazing view of the sea, in all directions. He was a famous poet in Chile & loved to entertain at his 3 houses.
Our departure today is by sea, as we board the Crown Princess for 14 days cruising southward to Patagonia, round the Horn to the Falkland Islands, on to Montvideo & Buenos Aires. More from this correspondent in 2 weeks time!

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