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Bev Brooks
Bev Brooks

Bev Brooks

traveled in 11 countries Read more
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  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler
    No one wants photo taken
    Car trainView from trainVery old authentic kitchenView from the trainOur air bnb

    Slovenia Here We Come

    June 3, 2018 in Slovenia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    Another day another train trip. Today we are heading to Slovenia, in fact a small village outside of Bled. We always have some sort of drama when we travel so it will be interesting to see what today brings. The trip starts at Salzburg Central Station to Villach, where we swap lines to Lecse Bled.

    The scenery along the way is spectacular, travelling along side the Alps, stopping at many small villages along the way.

    Once me made it to Lesce Bled train station our Air bnb host picked us up. Matzik, Matthew in English, drove us to Bled, stopping at the local supermarket so we could get some staples. It’s tough shopping, we had just got used to German words for items, now it’s Slovenian. Even choosing butter, full cream milk etc is a challenge. Matzik tells us it is cutting the grass season, they only cut the grass 3times a year, now, in a month and then another month. This is made into hay bales for the animals over winter. Wish we only cut the grass 3times.

    We also find out today is an Election Day so not much is open. We reach our accomodation, an old family home. I imagine this was Mum and dads home, they died, everything has been left in place and now rented as air bnb. The cupboards and drawers are full to the brim. Some have batteries, candles, lots of crockery and china. I’m surprised it is all still here. The 4 bed rooms are large as well as 3 bathrooms, even a bath.

    We are in the village of Spondje Gorge, there are no eating places here but there is a local bar. The bus is across the road, Bled in 5mins down the road.

    After unpacking we head to Bled for our first glimpse of the lake. It is beautiful, the castle over looks the lake, right in the middle is an island with a church perched on top.

    We find a restaurant it enjoy a cold beverage and a Mexican inspired platter. A small pub crawl back to the bus stop to head home. We were heading to the local but it closes at 8pm on Sundays.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    Sound of Music

    June 2, 2018 in Austria ⋅ ⛅ 16 °C

    The original Sound of Music Tour, I don’t do many tours but this seems a mandatory in Salzburg. The tour takes you to several locations around Salzburg where the film was shot. We travel through the city of Salzburg to the lake where the Von Trapp children capsized learning that Gretal nearly drowned during the taking of this scene. The film is based on the broad way show which was based on the book by Maria Von Trapp but several facts were changed along they way. For instance Maria was originally employed to look after only 1 child, between Maria and the Captain they had 10 children and escaped the Nazis by train not escaping over the mountain.

    We saw the rotunda where “16 going on 17” was filmed and the “Do Re Me” steps. Along the way the soundtrack is playing and a sing along is mandatory. We visit the town of Mondsee, here the church that was in the wedding scene is found. Except for the balcony where the nuns watched from it is exactly as it was in the film. It was a great opportunity for us to also see the lakes district outside of Salzburg.

    We finish the tour in the Mirabelle Gardens, many of the scenes were filmed from here. If is Salzburg I would recommend this tour.

    Once the tour was over we ventured into the old town. This was quite an eye opener, the buildings were amazing but all filled with very expensive shops, Louis Vuitton etc.

    Time for a couple of quiet beverages, a Prosecco was €4 approx $7 so pretty good I thought. At the hostel a large bottle of Prosecco €11, I’m not complaining.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    Destination Salzburg

    June 1, 2018 in Austria ⋅ 🌙 16 °C

    Another train trip this time to Salzburg. As we are now accustomed with the operation of the U this should be pretty easy. We quickly arrive at the correct train station. Our problem this time is finding where to purchase tickets. After going to 2 different ticket offices we are told to purchase off the train. At the train they tell us to go to the tobacconist as it is €8 cheaper. That’s not very intuitive, we make it on board with about 5 mins to go. Little to close for my liking.

    The train is very comfortable, food is served on board but it is very full and we find ourselves scattered through the train. Not a bad thing to have some space sometimes.

     A 2.5 hr trip when we find ourselves in beautiful Salzburg. It is not far to our hostel for 2 nights. Salzburg is clearly more expensive than Vienna. A 4 bed private room with ensuite costs €34 /person.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    Vienna International Boylesque Festival

    May 31, 2018 in Austria ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Who could have imagined only 8 weeks ok Trigger Happy got the call up to perform at this amazing festival. This is the 5th year of this event. The MC Ms Sherry Vine was amazing. I will never be able to listen to “Hallelujah” the same way again, let’s just say there was a lot of reference to blow jobs in the new song. It was a pleasure to met her and I hope we catch up again in Brisbane in August.

    Trigger Happy was 4th to perform. Ms Sherry asked the audience to give a little more love as this was Triggers first performance on European soil. The minute he walked on stage he had everyone involved. The clapped, they cheered, he gave it his all. I can honestly say he won them over and I truely believe this will not be the last time he performs on this stage, let alone Europe. Once complete Ms Sherry gave a call out to me, I gave her a wave and our friendship started. At interval many people commented on Triggers performance, they loved it. Well done Trigger, I know how much sweat and tears have gone into making this performance. You have shown everyone, believe in yourself , work hard and dreams can come true. I look forward to seeing you on the next international stage. Stay true to your self.

    The 2 shows had over 30 performers from all over the world. I was lucky enough to met a few of them in person. Alexander the Great from the US, who unlike his name is of small stature but has a dynamic powerful performance. Twinky Boots also from the US who did a wonderful rendition of Singin in the Rain. This festival celebrates diversity and welcomes performers from all walks of life. There are no labels here.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler
    Old vs New

    Bratilava

    May 30, 2018 in Slovakia ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    Let’s go to Bratislava Suzie says. Ok sounds good, off we head, not knowing anything about it or what to expect. I know it’s in Slovakia, a different country, so passports are gathered and of we go.

    Just getting to the train station was an experience, no bikes were available so we decide to walk. Time was getting short, so jump onto the U then a change to another. Little stressed, I was getting worried we would miss the train, they run every hour. We finally arrive at the central station. Up 2 levels to get to the international train station with 9 mins to go - Still stressed I grab the tickets. We Make it to the train with a few minutes to spare.

    The trip to Bratislava is 1 hour, we travel through the Austrian countryside heading east towards Slovakia. The landscape is predominately farming and wind farms.

    On arrival at the train station I expected to go through immigration but no, nothing. No stamps today -first time I have cross a country border and not due immigration.

    Bratislava is know for the old town area, we pass the Presidential Palace on the way to the old area. This was originally the summer palace, which was built in the 18th century. Today it is the home of the president.

    The Old Town Hall was built in the 15th. century, We certainly were going back in time. The buildings are not in top condition but this adds to the charm. This is certainly a very touristy spot, the place is filled with restaurants and souvenir shops but still quiet charming.

    Wandering up and down small alley ways we make our way through the old city. We have lunch at an authentic Slovakian restaurant. I have cabbage soup which is delicious 2nd course of gnocchi with bacon. Hmm what can I say, the gnocchi is white and the bacon is the bacon fat that has been fried. Not for me, not very nice at all. The 3rd course was apple strudel, it was delicious. Not the best meal I have had But at least we all tried local food.

    Continue on through the narrow laneways and lots of stairs until we come to the castle. We are certainly getting our exercise today. The Bratislava Castle was the coronation seat of the Hungarian empire in the 16th. century. It’s in very good condition and well worth a visit. The view from here overlooks the Danube, the city centre and wind warms for as far as the eye can see. There’s a spot crossing back to the old city where you view the old stone walled city and the new fancy bridges over the Danube. Quite a good comparison of old vs new.

    Time to return to Vienna as the first Boylesque festival is tonight. A full brief of this event will be done after tomorrow nights show.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    City Cycle

    May 29, 2018 in Austria ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    We were all awake before 6 and slowly came up with our plan for today - See the city using city cycle bikes. This should not be hard, the website is great shows you the stations, how many bikes are available etc. We wander to a cycle station where there are 20 bikes available. One credit card must be registered per bike, €1 for registration , first hour free. My 2 credit cards are declined, a quick phone call to Comm Bank finds I don’t follow instructions very well, I had entered the wrong pin. In the mean time Suzie registered her 2nd card for me.

    Jump on the bikes heading for the ring road to travel around the city. The ring road represents the walls of the old city. The architecture is amazing, low rise, statues, marble wash. We pass the opera house, the winter palace and finally find our way to the WU. The WU is the university, architecture is very new, glass everywhere, lots of colour, yellows, blues, brown etc.

    The bikes are dropped off within the hour. At each spot, we walk to the next station picking up the bikes for another free hour.

    After a couple of false starts we find ourselves on the banks of the Danube, overlooking Vienna central business district

    At the WU we pick up our next bike, Suzie card is now declined. Both my cards are declined, Ben and Suzie have their bikes, I’m sadly without. A phone call to city cycle finally sorts it out, I didn’t put my address in correctly. I have a Bike yeah we can continue. So much easier in a city where most people speak English as there second language.

    A stop for lunch, we pick up a bike at the next station and head for home. On the way home we pass statues of Groethe and Mozart, I certainly know I’m in the city of great culture.

    We have been on the bikes for approx 7 hours, certainly seen lots of the old town of Vienna.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    Vienna

    May 28, 2018 in Austria ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

    We arrived on time in Vienna, my 7th continent, finally made it to Europe. The easiest customs and immigration ever, and we got a stamp in passport, Yay.

    A quick taxi ride finds us in the shopping restaurant area of Mariahilf. Our AirBNB awaits, Felix meets us at the door to show us the 3 bedroom apartment we have for the next 4 nights. This place is perfect, around the corner from where the Vienna International Boylesque Festival is to be performed. Venturing out for our first taste of Vienna, all of us are shattered but now we must stay awake for a few more hours. First impressions are clean, safe, quiet. An early dinner of schnitzel, a shop at Hofer (Aldi) and back to the apartment to chill. I’m ready to crash by 630pm, ready to start the real adventure tomorrow.Read more

  • Bev BrooksVienna, Boylesque and beyondTraveler

    Travel to Vienna

    May 27, 2018 in Austria ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    What a long day when your flight is at 10:50pm. Ben purchased at Qantas lounge pass on Gumtree for $50. We were so bored so we decided to head to the airport at 6:15pm to be greeted by Luke at the Emirates counter. What a cool guy, got us into Row 19 and blocked a seat out. This section is the first of the economy seats, they don’t fill this section up.

    Headed up to Qantas Club to start the trip in style. The club was near empty so Michelle gave us special attention making Espresso Martinis and opening a bottle of Champagne for me. I’m so proud of Ben, I have to tell Michelle so here we are in the middle of Qantas Club showing a video of “Shreklesque”.

    We leave on time on the A300 a smooth take off, heading directly for Dubai. The staff were attentive, the food good. My only criticism would be breakfast arrived around 12 hours into the flight, OMG I was starving - but it was delicious. None of us slept well, and 14 hours was a long flight.

    Arrived Dubai around 8am local time. The airport was very busy, people going in every direction. I left Suzie and Ben to find the smoking area while I explored for a short time. To get from terminal C to A you need to catch a train which takes 3 minutes. I went into the Emirates Business Class lounge for a quick look. OMG I have never been in such a huge lounge. You enter the lounge and all the gates 1-24 are accessible from within the lounge. There is casual dining, fine dining, coffee areas, massage , quiet areas the list goes on. I hope I have enough time to explore this on my way home.

    Head to my gate via the lounge, confusing Suzie and Ben - they think I’m lost. We board our next flight to Vienna. This time the plane is empty and thanks to Luke in Brissie we each have a row to ourselves.

    It’s 9am local time, we are all shattered so a quick nap is necessary before the gin starts. The alcohol starts, the noise increases while we play trivia. The plane has representatives from 18 countries and 15 languages, so of course as each attendant arrives with our drinks you must guess where they are from. Soon we realise that everyone around us is now drinking, they figured we are loud - no use trying to sleep.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Volcanos

    January 3, 2018 in Chile ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    My first organized tour, on my last day. It was wet and overcast so I was unsure what I would actually see today. I went with 2 of the Argentina friends. The translated most things into English so I could understand what was going on.Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    2018 Day 1

    January 1, 2018 in Chile ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C

    Woke with a bit of a hangover so there was no rush to get up. In the afternoon I met my Argentina friends to wander the town. There was nothing open, only Mc Donald’s, even trying to find water was a trek. We did find the local boats were doing trips so we hopped on one and went for an hours trip. We saw some seals which were being feed by the locals unfortunately. Nice boat ride.

    Dinner at Mc Donald’s and home to bed. Very uneventful, was surprised nothing absolutely nothing was open.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    New Years Eve

    December 31, 2017 in Chile ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C

    Waking early I venture downstairs for breakfast - toast, cheese and cold meat is the main breakfast in both Chile and Argentina. I have eaten more bread and pastries in the last 5 weeks than in the last 2 years. The family ask me to share dinner with them tonight at 10 pm. Again in South America the days start later, shops don’t open until at least 10 and close around 8 or 9. Cafes are rarely open early. Shops will also close for siesta between 1 and 4. As it is a Sunday it is even quieter, I do not venture out until after 11.

    The street are empty, the supermarket is hectic. I wander around town seeing the local sites trying to find a tour for tomorrow, I soon realise not much is going to be happen then tomorrow. My new friends, from the bus, text and ask if I would like to join them on Tuesday for a volcano tour. Yep I’m in.

    Fighting the crowds at the supermarket I purchase some bubbles and wine for NY. The afternoon is spect resting before I head out again at 6pm. The plan was to have a few drinks and head back to hostel at around 9pm. But not a chance, most of the bars are already closed, I find 1 open until 7. So I quick drink and back to the hostel. Most families have dinner at home then go out there watch the fireworks.

    Sandra, my host, has been cooking all day. The table is set with masks and whistles. We share my bubbles before dinner commences. I am so lucky that be in this hostel, not sure what I would have done if I was somewhere else.

    Dinner is amazing a wonderful seafood dish to start followed by beef, salad and potatoes. Then the 5 varieties of dessert Sandra has also cooked. It is a very international dinner, China, South Korea, France, Russia, Chile and Australia is represented. Although there were certainly language barriers we all had a blast. Seeing the New Year in style. Happy New Year.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Chile Here I Come

    December 30, 2017 in Chile ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    Finally it is time to leave Argentina and make my way across the border to Chile. Saying goodbye to Mel I board my bus. My ticket was checked before I got on but in checking the passengers just before leaving the bus driver realised I was on the wrong bus. Off loaded I find the correct bus but am directed to the wrong seat. I soon get moved on as an adamant young lady tells me to get out of her seat. Didn’t need to understand Spanish to work that out.

    About an hour into the ride we get the customary juice and de Luca biscuit. On longer trips you also get 2 epanades. The buses are quite comfortable Which make the trips a lot more enjoyable.

    We arrive at the Argentina border, the buses appear to get preference over the cars and it takes only about 20 minutes for everyone to get cleared to leave. The drive through “ no mans land” is about 30 minutes through the mountains. On reaching Chile everybody disembarks with all luggage. First to get my visa, valid for 90 days no charge. Then hand luggage is checked. You go stand beside your suitcase to get this opened and checked as well. Certainly not a through check, but at least something.

    It feels very odd to arrive in a country where cash is king and I do not have 1 Chilean peso on me. Most places to not take visa cash is certainly the most used. In Argentina ATMs were quite scarce and in some towns the ran out of cash for days. Not sure what to expect in Puerto Montt I was a little worried about how I was going to get to my hostel. When the bus arrived, about 7 hours, I ventured into the bus station, luckily there were atms with money. First problem solved. On the bus were a group of students who spoke English so I befriended them, they helped me get an Uber to my hostel. We exchanged phone numbers so we could catch up later.

    My hostel was only 1 k from the time centre, so dropping my bags I ventured straight into town. Everywhere was selling NY things, hats, masks, streamed etc. Strangely most stalls had a large supply of yellow knickers. Not sure what this was about. The shopping centre was large and modern with all the normal year end bargains. I soon found a bar to have a wine and dinner. Having no idea what I ordered I ended with the best meal of my whole trip. Salmon,shrimp and fish combination- it’s was flavoursome tasty yum.

    Back to the hostel to rest ready for New Year in Peutro Montt.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Road Trip - Ruta40

    December 28, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    I had already lost enough time trying to sort out the robbery, so I decided today was a day of action.

    Heading north around the lake and Parque Nacional Nahuel Haupi I dove 80k to Villa La Angostura. I stopped along the way at Puerto Manzano - a small village surrounding a sheltered bay. What a picturesque spot, it’s a pity it is overcast but still very lovely. All the homes are made of log woods even the telephone box. Lots of sailing boats in the bay as well.

    At Villa La Angostura I stop for a wander around and a coffee. Again a small town - I notice the locals here all eat out, all the cafes are full of families having coffee and cake. This is something I have noticed in every town/ village I’ve been to.

    Next stop is San Martin de los Andes a further 108k north. The roads are pretty well maintained through the rising mountains and beautiful lakes. The roadside is once again full of flowers which makes this a beautiful drive. The roads are not busy but everyone likes to pass. Even though on most roads there is a double yellow full lines painted everyone just passes when they feel like it. There are police checks constantly where everyone slows to about 30 and puts on hazard lights while going through. I went through about 20 on today’s trip, have no idea what they are actually doing, never saw anyone pulled over.

    Also on the road there are many “mirador” spots - viewing areas. This is a very beautiful area.

    I finally make it to the lakeside town of San Martin - again it is on a sheltered inlet. This town is known for its mountain biking, there are lots of hire shops and tours. Pretty mountainous area - this would be a challenge. I was also surprised to see so many people travelling via bikes, this area is very hilly, but there are many camping areas. Good luck to those on bikes, it’s very windy and the rain comes in scuds across the valleys. This would certainly not be my choice.

    Heading home I stop at Angostura for an ice cream. I’ve never seen an ice cream shop so busy, the shop is full it takes about 10minutes to get served, and the guy is going flat out. They do have great ice cream.

    Finally reach home again at 730. A great day,    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Boxing Day - Robbery

    December 27, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ 🌬 22 °C

    The day started with a hang over and a very slow start. Finally hit the road around 11 stopping at a beautiful cafe on one many bays around the lake. Homemade gnocchi was exactly what I needed.

    Then up the chair lift to Cerro Campanario for amazing views of Bariloche. I took some greats photos and some amazing panaramas which I was looking forward to reviewing later in the day. At the top there is also a revolving restaurant which provide a beautiful view of the lake below. From here you can see many of the ski runs that surround the city.

    Once down it is time to do some present shopping for those at home. We park the car not far from the main shopping centre and head off for 2 hours of shopping. It was siesta time so I had to wait for some shops to open but soon found what I was looking for.

    Mel and I met up at 6pm ready to get dinner and head back to the hotel. When we got to the car we new immediately something was wrong. The car was open the bags were gone. Flustered, shocked we locked the car and went directly to the police. Little did I know what saga this would lead to.

    The police speak no English so one has to go to the tourist office who translate what we say into Spanish. It is a little like Chinese whispers. We have no idea what they right down or if it agrees with what we have said. At the time we had no idea how the car was entered as there was no visible sign of entry that we saw. Then you take this form to the police who in turn transform that into a formal statement. So many obvious things are wrong, my name address etc. goodness knows what it actually says. 3 hours later we finally find ourselves heading home.

    This saga is not over - it continues for 3 more days.
    27/12 I ask the receptionist to translate my statement. In broken English she tells me it says my name, where the car was parked, what time and what was stolen. Nothing else - nothing about our bags, nothing about car being open etc. We then ring the rental car agency - check the locks they say. Both locks have been damaged, the key no longer goes in. As I can automatically open the doors I didn’t even think about this.

    Next the rental agency come to get the car fixed under insurance. As the statement does not say the car was broken into they go to police to change the statements. Come back tomorrow at 8am they are told. They write in Spanish about the locks and ask police to change statements. I also get added they fact that the bags were in the boot, as this was missed on original statement. I will take this with the original statements to the station tomorrow.

    28/12 Back to police station - come back tomorrow at 9am. The police officer is not on duty today. This is starting to worry me if it is not in statement how will insurance go. It is very frustrating when you don’t speak Spanish and they don’t speak English. Google translate can only do so much, much is lost in the translation.

    29/12 Back to police station at 9am as requested. I have also asked car rental company to join us, he arrives at 915. This looks more promising, some smiles, asked to sit. The female police officer even comes to ask some questions, that’s a first. We are finally given new statements. Does it say everything we need, I’m not sure. The car rental guy is happy, so I know at a minimum it has the break in via the locks included. What does it say about my gear - no idea. Well I have copies of everything, have explained the saga to my insurance. So know I will wait until I’m back in Aus to put in the claim.

    Well that’s a learning exercise in patience and perseverance. No use getting upset it doesn’t help, follow the process and rules hopefully it will work out in the end.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Christmas drive to El Bolson

    December 25, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Christmas morning means a little more that yoghurt and fruit so it's time for some eggs, ham and cheese before heading down the road to El Bolson. We travelled this route coming into Bariloche, we new immediately we needed to do this route again stopping to capture the beauty of the road.

    Heading out of town the road soon turns into a mixture of purple, yellow, pick and white flowers along the roadside with towering cliffs behind. The lupines are a mixture of all colours with daisies and a yellow "honeysuckle" thrown in. Stopping constantly to capture the beauty along side flowing streams. The mountains also tower the road making this a memorable drive.

    El Bolson is 126k south, when we reach the town it is clear that like everywhere else everything is closed on Christmas day. I would love a coffee but doesn't look like that will happen. Finally we find a service with a restaurant open. I wish I didn’t the coffee was awful. We even found our own real Christmas tree which will get decorated with whatever baubles we find in the unit.

    Once home it is time to get ready for Christmas dinner. I do the peeling while Mel does the cooking. We have no idea how to start the gas oven so after 3 attempts to get assistance form the front desk I finally go face to face to get help. It takes the receptionist 30 seconds to show us when he finally decides to come over. Unfortunately on opening the chicken we find it smells and the only option is to toss it. Not sure if it was bad when we bought it or we left the fridge open but either way it is going to be a basically vegetarian dinner.

    Matt, from our Antarctica adventure, joins us for dinner. The meal is scrumptious and more than enough. Mel managed a chick pea and corn salad, roast veggies, boiled eggs, cheese and ham. The 2 bottles of bubbles and 4 wine go down a treat - although I’m sure I’ll feel it tomorrow.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Woohoo we have a car

    December 24, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Today the car arrives and sets us free. Ok so the car is manual and it is left hand drive. First problem is finding reverse and then managing the hill out of the resort. You have no idea how many time my left hand went to change gears, oops, right hand needs to do that.

    First port of call the supermarket and just like home it is packed with everyone trying to buy up big for Christmas. The supermarket is not as big as home, the fruit and vege is limited but we manage to decipher most things and pick up enough for the next few days. A good shop with 3 bottle of wine and 2 bubbles as well as a huge chicken and snitzel as well as veggies, herbs etc come to approx $160aus.

    Quickly back to room, unpack, lunch and hit the road. We drive around the lake for approx 70ks stopping at camping sites to admire the view. It is a good learning exercise for me to learn more about the car, manual left hand drive etc.

    We stop to pick some wild flowers in the national park before heading home. The wild lupine are beautiful.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Birthday

    December 23, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ 🌙 12 °C

    Once again I find myself in another foreign country on my birthday. This year I wake up in a dingy smelly damp hostel where breakfast is sugar coated cornflakes and dishwater coffee. Not a good start.

    Quickly into town for a real coffee and to see what the town has to offer. Bariloche is a beautiful town situated on a lake, it is very hilly I soon find out. Quickly I decide to check out of the hostel and move to my timeshare booking for the week -Hotel Del Lago. OMG things could not have changed so quickly.

    Now we are right on the lake, heated pool, 2 rooms with a kitchen. Mel and I have hi 5's when we realise we can cook Christmas dinner.

    Time to get organised for the week:
    1. car hire $1000peso a day done.
    2. First bday drink a raspberry margarita
    3. Bday ice cream
    4. Retail therapy
    5. Grocery shopping including champagne.

    An easy dinner drinking bubbles and watching the sun go down. How life can change so quickly in 1 day.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    24 hours on a bus

    December 22, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ 🌬 12 °C

    Oh how do you prepare for a 24 hour bus ride - drink wine of course. On our way to the wine bar we find another Antarctica adventurer in Matt. Off we head for a couple which quickly becomes 4 large glasses of red and a lovely meat platter.

    On to the bus a little pissed - it is chockers. 8pm we head off luckily i think i sleep well dozed at least. Hope i don't snore but good chance I did.

    We transfer to another bus at 7am. This one is a lot smaller no luxury here once again is full. The bus station has nothing open so no food no snacks. Naively we a pretty sure we will stop in a couple of hours to buy food.

    WRONG 2 hours passes a movie goes on 3 then 4 in fact 5 hours before the bus stops on the side of the road. There is nothing why are we stopping - i look out and see rhe driver with food oh we are saved. 2 cold epanades chocolate and a juice. Saved on we go.

    At the 7 hour mark we stop a a servo toilet stop and able ro buy some snacks. Its another 6 hours before we stop again. Oh my sore tired butt. Only 2 hours to go.

    We finally pull into Bariloche at 8pm. only a short walk the driver shows us. Yep doesnt look far at except it all uphill. Most streets have stairs and we have heavy luggage. We give it a goosld shot but give up and hail a taxi.

    Arriving at the air bnb quickly dissolves into disappointment this is a hostel and not a very good one. Oh well only 1 night. The shower does not drain the bathroom smells. yuk

    The shopping centre next door has a food court so dinner and a wine is the order of the day.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Last day in El Chalten

    December 21, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 1 °C

    We catch the bus tonight at 8pm heading for Bariloche.

    We wake up to see fresh snow on the hills - I new it was cold but didn't think it had got that cold overnight.

    We venture out heading for waffles for breakfast then the aim is to do some shopping. I have very little cash left and unfortunately must of the craft shops do not take visa, so no shopping for me.

    It's a lazy day preparing for the bus trip. Some pics of around town.

    Will hit the cute wine bar at 5pm for a couple to help me sleep on the bus.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Veging around town

    December 20, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    The weather has turned bad again today, not much to do except ponder around town. I have a massage in the local spa which is great and generally don't do much at all. I learn the spa has been open 6 years and is gradually being accepted by the locals. They have certainly put a large capital investment into it.

    We do find a little pace to chill for a few hours, as always the pies of wine are huge - certainly don't need more than a glass.

    In the evening we catch up with some of the crew from the boat who are in town. We have a few happy hour drinks and some food, I have to say I am not happy with the food options at all. The nachos are just chips and plastic cheese with a little guacamole. Salad comprise of mainly lettuce and carrot certainly nothing to rave about.

    Mel and I then head to a wine bar Mel spied in the afternoon. Finally a decent wine bar with lots of options. Hopefully we will get back tomorrow. I'm starting to run out of cash so only bars who take visa for me for the next few days.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Coming back down

    December 19, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 11 °C

    Mel came back from the sunrise shoot around 7 telling me it was starting to rain. Straight into action we were bringing down the tent to get on our way. Into our wet gear and we were off. It was not going to be the best day today, many hikers were coming up I doubt they will see the mountain today.

    Off we went, physiologically it is so much easier heading home, I had land marks I could tick off as we went. The wind had reduced but the rain in your face didn't help. The mountains were in total cloud was we left for home. It was a slow trek for me, luckily Mel took the tent off me for the last 4K as it would have been near impossible to traverse the downhill with the additional weight. We walked our own race down taking whatever time we needed.

    I was quite slow stopping to take some pictures and watch the occasional wood pecker along the way. It took me about 2.5 hours to get back to town. I am pleased that I may not be as unfit as I feel. But I know I need to get my fitness back to 2018 for sure.

    First stop in town was my favourite coffee house where now I am well known. The lady speaks no english and me no Spanish but we manage. Even when I cannot into the belt on my pants- I have to ask her assistance to unto me. Was a laugh. A couple of coffee and a nice cake on the house spurred me onto the hostel.

    After eating for an hour it was time to head to the spa, I got a 4 treatment session 2.5 hours for approx $100.
    . Firstly a leg wrap where the boots compress tightly then reduce
    . Next the stones run up and down your spine oh so good, quite hard but amazing
    . Next to the massage chair where your arms, legs and back are all being massaged at the same time and with different intensity.
    . Lastly into the jucuzzi for a soak watching the amazing photos taken around the region.
    . I even got a great shower and hair wash before heading back to the hostel.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    El Chalten Hiking

    December 18, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 29 °C

    Today we decided to head to the mountains. First stop is to rent gear 2 sleeping bags and mats and 1 2 man tent. The tent is much heavier and larger than expected this is not going to be fun. We head off around 11 after stopping for a coffee hit.

    The start of the trek is at the end of the town, the up we go. The first 4ks is to Lake Capri, this took about 2 hours. Absolutely stunning scenery, the sun is shining it is a glorious day. I am pleased with me effort so far as I am not as fit as a I should be and have not hiked all year. Mel carried the tent this far now it is my turn. I manage to attach it to my day back, but now I stick out both sides and are severely lop sided.

    The next 4K to Poincinot is relatively flat but quite exposed. The wind is howling around us and more than once it pushed me sideways. There are many small bridges to cross and I'm sure the wind is waiting for me to cross these as several times I need to stop and hang on fearing I would be blown into the small streams.

    We make the camp site in about an hour. The tent was relatively easy to put up under the shelter of the trees. We were both quite tired so a lay down was in order. I was absolutely frozen the cold was coming up through the ground it froze me solid. I should have got up but was so scared of getting cold again I did not move until the next morning. Mel got up to take both sunset and sunrise pictures.

    The wind was howling around ist sounded like a thunderstorm but the camp was situated in such a way that it was protected form the wind. I only slept for a couple of hours and remember waking in the dead of the night. It was is dark starring at my hand trying to make it focus was impossible - all I saw was blackness.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Wind, little rain and definitely snow.

    December 17, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 1 °C

    The plan was do to a short hike today but on waking to -1 and the wind already blowing a galas we abandoned these plans. Instead decided to wander the town. The wether got worse, the wind stronger and the mountains are covered in cloud and snow.

    I decide to get me nails done, well that was an experience- no knowledge of shallac so I leave the nails on and just get to painted that had fallen off ( choice of 6 colours lol). Toenails next - they break a pair of clippers on them, so it just a manicure and scrub. I would rate this experience about the same in most Asian countries- not good.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    El Chalten

    December 16, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Today we woke in El Calafate but will fall asleep in EL Chalten.

    After a late breakfast we wandered around the outskirts of town. It is lovely to see the homes painted on such vivid colours - green, red, purple etc. The roofs are steeply sloped and most gardens have beautiful flowers imcluding lots of lavender which i brush against constantly.

    At midday we are picked up and transported to the bus station via going all over town picking up others. We reach our 2 storey bus- very comfortable, only about 1/2 full so we spread out.

    What a magnificent view - this first hour is snow capped mountains with vivid green glacial lakes. Then onto the desert tundra with rock covered mountains. I feel im in cowboy country waiting for them to come riding over the ridge.

     The road is well maintained with very little traffic. We travelled the famous Ruta 40.

    Half way we stop at La Leona for a break it must be close to Butch Cassidy and Sundance territory as there are wanted posters on the walls. I totally forgot they were outlaws in this part of the world. Hmm slightly confused as to why these would be here as they only got to Bolivia, but hey I'll go with it.

    Onward to El Chalten tundra and snow covered mountains for the rest of the trip. 3 hours in total, very comfortable and would recommend this form of travel.

    We arrive in El Chalten right on time at 4pm a short walk and we arrive at our hostel. It is pretty basic but we have our own bathroom and it is close to town.

    In most small towns the toilets do not flush correctly so you must put toilet paper in bin not flush - I continually forget. Bad me.

    A walk around town finds lots of bars and camping shops. Not sure what the main pastime here is certainly a toss up between drinking and hiking. Happy hours are between 4 &7 and again 10 & 12. 2 GTs for 120 peso approx $9 - we will take that.

    Back to the hostel with wine and cheese to finish the night off.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler
    Watching world go by
    Anyone for socks

    The next Adventure

    December 15, 2017 in Argentina ⋅ ☁️ 6 °C

    Its as early wake up today to the sounds of "Somewhere over the Rainbow". An early breakfast , Internet, some quick good byes to new friends. Lots of hugs from all the staff before catching the bus to the airport.

    We have wifi , all conversation stops while we all catch up on facebook, and emails from home.

    Ushuaia is a duty free town - as my ipad decided to stop working it was a good opportunity to purchase a new one. At least now i can do my posts and continue to manage my photos. It's scary how much we miss our technology tools.

    The flight for El Calafate leaves on time. On arrival we catch the bus to our accomodation on the other side of town.

    Time to catch up on blogs and pictures before venturing into town for an early dinner. We had dinner in a nice library bar watching the world go by. Once again I was given the same lesson I've Learnt many times - don't order lots of dishes, we ordered 4 dishes , 2 of which were sides and could only finish 2 dishes. cost us a fortune and returned 2 full plates. I love the wine pours - nothing like home all full close to brim here. This is very pretty arty looking town.    Read more

  • Bev BrooksArgentina Antarctica & ChileTraveler

    Drakes Crossing

    December 14, 2017, South Atlantic Ocean ⋅ 🌬 1 °C

    We are now leaving Antartica, crossing Drakes back to Argentina. The weather looks good with seas about 5 meters. Someone forgot to tell the waves and wind. The ship started with rising high on the waves and then crashing down with monotonous regularity - about every 20 seconds. The sound in the cabin was horrendous. The boat shook with every crash. Then the wind decided to chime in so now as well as crashing forwarc and back we were rolling from side to side.

    Jan made the comment at dinner that the wind had tied down and so it seemed until about midnight. The wind came back with vengence I needed to hang pn in bed so not to roll out. We had glasses crashing things falling to the floor. It was quite a night.

    At breakfast , those that made it, everyone was hanging on from chair to chair to keep them upright.    Read more

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