Tribute and Toucan Tour

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January 24, 2026
Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
In search of a Toucan
January 24 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
Following a lovely catch up ,in london with friends made in Borneo, i went to bed at midnight,only to have to get up at 2.30am and drive to the airport.
Im happiest ,when parking the car at the airport ,to use the midstay car park ,as its most familiar,from when I'm in the airport for Chaplaincy
However ,I was departing from Terminal 2 ,and had to allow time for the walk over ,with my luggage
Its exciting to be departing from the new T2 as Id seen the developments ongoingly so trying to work out the new layout ,was a brain tease when sleep deprived
Im flying Air France premium economy which I wasn't impressed at the thought of doing .However ,once in situ on the Paris to San Jose leg of the journey ,I was given a freebies pouch ,with socks ,toothbrush eyemask etc ,champagne and an individually wrapped wet cloth ...not bad ...but not Emirates ! Food was ok too,but no menu...!...not like Emirates!
The seats recline with leg support and foot rest ..as well as adjustable headrest ....Quilt was decent ,as was the tv screen, but i struggled to find anything I liked ,to watch,until I found Belle and Sebastian ,a film from my childhood about a boy and a wild dog
My 4hr transit at Charles de Gaulle airport was a chaotic transfer ...its a crazy airport !
16hrs after leaving manchester airport ,I arrived in San Jose
With help ,i found the shuttle for my hotel...its now 6pm local time
The hotel told me I wasnt booked in with them and in fact the hotel was full
Id accidentally booked San Jose airport hotel in California !
I had to walk to the hotel next door and see if they had any availability ...fortunately ,i got the last available room at huge expense ...The room was huge with a kitchenette ,lounge area walk in wardrobe .I was only going to need it for 12hrs ! 🤦‍♀️
Anyway i was glad of it and that id finally arrived as id had a rather epic 48hrs ,taking my quick day trip to London into accountRead more
TravelerWhat are we going to do with you Jo!!!😂😂
1/28/26Reply
Jo LoweHa ha ...I don't know what you mean !🤣....must have coffee and croissant catch up,when I'm back ( 16th Feb) ....before I go again !🤣..which ,currently is april.,if I can hang on that long !
1/28/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Toucan sanctuary and Transfer
January 25 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C
I was collected from.my hotel as arranged with Freddy !...and visited a toucan and sloth rescue sanctuary ....Finally after years of waiting ,i saw a real toucan in person,albeit in a rescue sanctuary ....
I found the staff to be v informative and it was a well run place ,that functioned similarly to my experience with the orangutans
I then had a 4hr drive to the Guanacaste area ...
En route the driver pointed out various places where there had been a landslide,inc one spot where a new bridge had been placed to deal with vast gap in thr road caused by the landslide.Honestly looking down ,out of the window ,i could not see where or how this bridge was on solid ground or that it would be secured adequately to survive future downpours
Finally ,mid afternoon I arrived at my accommodation ,which is lovely .Read more
TravelerLove the owls and sloth. Xx
1/28/26Reply
Jo LoweYes they were good to see..Never seen a sloth
1/28/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Catamaran and Catastophe
January 26 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C
I should be going on a night rainforest walk but this was cancelled as 2 people dropped out ...So Freddy ,switched my activities ,which meant I was going on catarmaran tour today
I walked to the beach and heard a woman howling hysterically
I wqs told her daughter had gone out on a jet ski ,fallen off ,her hsir was caught in thr motor and she hasn't been found ....for over an hour
The situation unfolded ,with 3 ambulances and the return of the jet ski which was on its side...No attempt was made to turn it upright and I had the awful thought that maybe she was still attached .
We boarded the catamaran and it was not the calm cruise Id originally booked but due to the change of activities ,i was on the booze cruise party outing .. The scenery was lovely,but when there was an opportunity to snorkel ,i didnt ,as it meant following the guide ,swimming for 30mins,which is more than I can manage.I would have had a go on the slide that went from the top deck of the back of the boat,if id realised in advance
The sunset was the best part
I felt sad all day and wondered how many of the people on the cruise,who saw things unfold before we left ,would actually have given the accident ,a 2nd thought by the end of the cruiseRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Finally found a Fabulous Toucan
January 27 in Costa Rica ⋅ 🌬 32 °C
Plans through Freddy are Very hit and miss .Having cancelled my night walk.in the rainforest I envisaged ,not making it there at all.However ,I insisted on swapping to a rainforest day trip,especially as Freddy told me best time to see the toucan and the Red eye frog is daytime...tho the frog will be asleep.
unfortunately ..so won't see the red eyes 🤦‍♀️
When I was shown the frog ,i was staggered by the perfect camoflague ...and ,the eye wasnt quite closed ,so i saw a glimpse of red eye and I guess I will have to accept that ,on this occasion.
En route to the rainforest ,we called at a coffee plantation ,where coffee is grown and produced by hand ..The owner is 94yrs old and looks amazing ...I think he is still working
He arrived years ago in the area and cleared the land by hand .He has 10 children .It was amazing to see and as a hardened tea drinker ,even I thought the black coffee tasted ok.!! We had plantin cake and chocolate snacks ...both v nice.
The rain forest was fabulous and the guides are fantastic at getting great photos using mobile phone combined binoculars.
So I got my toucan photo!! and I saw him hopping along a branch and flying away ....absolutely bucket list ticked !
..There were also sloths ,but less of them.
A line of leaf ants were absolutely fascinating.....dashing about in huge numbers carrying a leaf each......they were sooo industrious
The plants and waterfalls were also amazing
After lunch we moved on to walking over a couple of hanging bridges ,which were super wobbly ! ,to see a couple of fabulous 6 waterfalls.
Finally we went to a hot springs and geothermal mud pools .This reminded me of Rotarua in Nz
I decided not to participate but did put some mud of my face and hands ,skin did feel soft after I removed it .
The showers at this place had the most unecessary statues !
A really good day,probably better than just a night walk,where apparently youre at risk of venemous snakes being on the prowl..
The yellow snake we saw this morning ,jumps for your face. The poison is instant death...hence the saying ..."the kiss of death"Read more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
In search of Crocodiles
January 28 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C
Today's tour was a river cruise in crocodile infested waters ,in the rainforest.🤣
During the trip ,we saw many different birds ,including blue herons ....honestly too many names to remember.Also howler monkeys ,who make a very particular sound and white face monkeys
However ,the absolute thrill for me ,was seeing a croc ,in the water near,the boat....only noticeable by its eyes being open...try spotting it in my photos.
I was noticeably over enthusiatic,announcing to everyone ,how much I'd wanted to see a croc ( honestly ,Id not bargained on being so excited🤣)and asking the Whole boat to look out for crocs 🤣🤣🤣!!
It seems they obliged and the tour focus seemed to switch away from birds ...to crocs🐊🐊
There were loads !! We saw them slithering into the water,basking with their mouth open ,which is how they regulate temperature and just lying still,blending in superbly with the soil ...absolutely amazing !!
We passed fields of sugar cane and were told about the harvest processes ..We also got to try a piece of sugar cane....to chew out the juice and then throw away the pulp
Its interesting to learn that Cantaloupe melon which I love is a major export from here .
Bananas ,lemons ,avacados dragon fruit tomatoes are just some of the other things that grow easily here
We went for a traditional costa rica lunch of ,rice beans ,chicken ,tortilla guacamole....and despite my being mega cautious with food abroad ,resisting trying new things ,this felt safe enough and was delicious
I saw coffee being prepared through cheesecloth ...apparently there is more flavour the more you use it
The elderly owner has been making pottery for many years on a hand spinning wheel..pots are hardened by the natural air and polished rather than glazed
Before we moved on from lunch ,we watched a demonstration of his work ...it was lovely.
On our return journey ,we called to Filadelphia, where the iguanas roam freely in the park....which was really exciting to see
We also saw a traditional wooden house
Ive been suprised to see Ox! I've never seen one before
As id had a big meal at lunch time ,I wasnt hungry in.the evening so wandered to the supermarket to get bread ,cheese ,bananas and chocolate ,for a picnic in my room ,reminiscient of childhood teas ,tho minus the tinned peaches that we always had .I had a fresh one instead ..😅
A really interesting dayRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Chilling out as plans cancelled
January 29 in Costa Rica ⋅ ⛅ 30 °C
I had horse riding on the beach planned for today,and even brought my riding helmet from the uk ,as I couldn't be sure of being issued with one here.However,following on from the jet ski accident I cancelled ,as it made me question safety standards here ...shame but I have done it in Morroco
I'd asked Freddy what other trips were available today ,but he didnt get back to me....so I found myself at bit of a loose end
There's not much to do in this area .Freddy runs a day trip to Nicaragua ,which Id have been interested in going on but maybe for the best,that I didnt as I'm going to China later in the year and the world is a strange place at the moment ,in terms of political relations so Ive no idea if a day trip to Nicaragua would hinder my entry to China ,but best not to tempt fate
The accommodation is absolutely beautiful ,utterly serene and so it was no real hardship to spend the day there ,between my room and the patio at the front of my room overlooking the pool ,which is surrounded by palm trees and banana plants .I spent sometime chatting with the owners daughter Vivian.The family are German and came to Costa rica ,building the accomodation from.scratch.Vivian is a musician and has sung with the Costa Rica Philharmonic Orchestra
Eventually ,I wandered to the supermarket and bought a tuna pasta meal with an additional salad .The fresh food is really good here ,it tastes different ... ?? All organic?
The accomodation is at its best at night when it is dark , the pool is lit and the stars and moon are out. It is absolutely silent ...
I sat at the edge of the pool,with my feet in the water looking up at the stars and the moon....absolutely fantastic
Some of the photos are today an some not managed to include so farRead more
TravelerLooks lovely and restful. Don't think I would enjoy the Croc searching but the birds are interesting. Xx
1/31/26Reply
Jo LoweYes Stella ,the birds are definitely more your thing
1/31/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Return to San jose
January 30 in Costa Rica ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
Today ,I return to San Jose. I asked Freddy to allocate Nemmy ,the same driver, that had collected me 4days ago .,basically because he's a good driver ,we had had a good chat on the outward journey and Id wanted to give him a tip the other day ,but the cash machine wasnt working.So,the only way I could be sure to give it to him,was to see him again
He arrived at 8.30am and I introduced him to the owners and showed him round .He took the contact numbers of the owners to give to Freddy ,so I hope it creates business for the hotel
We had a good journey, due to setting off early and beating the traffic We stopped a couple of times for coffee and toilet break
Mixed feelings as I arrived back at the airport hotel ,where thankfully no issues with the room.
I have seen some really great things ,ticked the box for the toucan and sort of for the red eyed frog .I am just not convinced that I've got the best out of my time here or that being based in Guanaccaste region was the right decision. It was always going to be a brief stop,having cancelled the volunteer project ,Id initially planned for here.Read more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Onwards to Argentina
January 31 in Argentina ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C
The real purpose of my trip,to visit Beunos Aires ,in memory of my Dad ,who.was born there ,and ,had he been alive ,would have been 100yrs old on 5th Feb
So ,a 5am start at my hotel in Costa rica, a breakfast to go bag ,with an apple and a muffin ,before the hotel shuttle bus took me to the airport
Frustratingly ,though Id checked in online ,my documents had to be checked ,in person ,so I had to queue at the check in desk .Its amusing to see just how much luggage people have....I was asked to weigh my carry on case and its 7kg ....for a 3wk trip
The airport at san jose is crazy..I joined the most insane queue for Border Force and then another for the bag check...It took an hour and a half from arriving ,to actually sit at the departure gate.
This is a journey Ive been anxious about ,as I convinced myself Panama City airport would be unsafe......In fact it was beautiful

I grossly underestimated the length of this flight.....8hrs ...and when choosing a seat paid for a wider seat with more leg room.and tv .However ,I got it wrong and no chance to swap as the flight was full. Thrn ,I got moved by the air hostess ,as there was a family that needed to sit together.This resulted in my being in the row behind those with tv...and in front of a woman who brought her dog on board !
The flight was ok...the food was megre portions in disposable cartons and wooden disposable cutlery....bear in mind at this point ,ive been awake 12hrs and not really eaten
There were no additional snacks and only one extra drink ,just before landing .The best is that the points for the miles of this flight can becime Emirates air miles🥳🥳
Arriving in Argentina ,at 10.30pm (which is 8.30pm.costa rican time ) the border force were unbelievably slow ! The Canadian guy in front of me who lives in BA said its always the same.He works for the International Olympic committee
I finally emerged into Beunos aires airport just after midnight local time. It took a further 45mins to get to the hotel..I was knackered and starving.There was chance to get macdonalds at thr airport,but my poor driver had been waiting an hour and a half for me ,so it didnt seem fair to expect him to wait longer
At th hotel ,there was no 24hr room.service ,but the night manager v quickly sorted me a kettle anf milk so I could make a brew
Finally, some 17hrs after I got out of bed in Costa Rica,I got into bed in Argentina...at 1.30am on 1st Feb 2026Read more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
1st full day in Buenos Aires
February 1 in Argentina ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
After a late breakfast ,i set out to find the Hop on Hop off bus ,an easy way for a tired tourist to see the sights and get my bearings
The stop was easy to find ...walking down the main street towards the Obilisque
The weather is hot,so I was glad to get a seat under.the canopy at the back of the bus
There are 26 stops on the route ...The city has a lovely vibe easily mixing old and new architecture....There are wide streets and they are litter free
Everywhere on the route had extensive wide open park areas
A really lovely introduction to this city of special significance
In the evening I attended a tango show which was fantastic.There was a dinner ,where i chose Steak and a Malbec....The steak was huge but delicious ,however I wasn't impressed by the malbec.
I had a crazy coincidence moment relating to the couple at my table who live between southport and sydney ..The wife's son lives 10doors down from Mags ! I immediately txt her and she confirmed.....a surreal experienceRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Registry office Research
February 2 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C
The reception staff at the hotel have been extremely helpful in directing me to sources of information about Dad ,who was born here in BA .
Unbelievably the Registry office is 10mins walk from my hotel along the next street
I was.really fortunate to have the help of a lovely girl ,who spoke English .She searched online for records of Dad's birth ,but unsucessfully . Things then got more complicated,trying to register for an account ,filling in an online form ,written in Spanish,with a lady who only spoke Spanish....interesting !
The girl who spoke english suggested I return with someone who can interpret,in order i could go to a different desk to.explain what I am.trying to achieve
Then I had to download an app, for the city of BA ,Not easy ,as the wifi was dodgy
Ultimately ,after being at the registry office for a couple of hours ,and no real progress,I asked to go to the relevant desk
I was lucky ,as the guy on the desk spoke sufficient english
I had photographed the only bit of information I had on Dad's birth ,but it proved to be really useful ...It had the district of his birth ....district 13..I also had his parents names on a record of their marriage from the1890's
The information was sufficient to be able to create a request number ,which ,i could email to a given address .
I did so immediately.Unfortunately ,its going to take 2wks ..( naturally regretting not attempting this from the uk ,) The most frustrating part ,is the trigger for coming ,was finding Dad's birth certificate , with the street associated with him,at home ,some time ago ,but in looking again ,I couldnt find it in time.
It was amusing to discover Dad was registered as Juan,which i never knew,might have teased him if I'd known.Honestly wished Id asked far more from both Mum and Dad about the family history.Dad in.particular,had 5 aunties ,my Grandpa and my Uncle ,who.all lived together ...If theyd all married ,the Valgimigli's would have been a huge family
Certainly this has peaked an interest in geaneology ...It would have been whole lot easier ,tho if Mum and Dad were able to offer insights
In the afternoon , using Uber,I visited an area called La Boca ,that Math had visited and recommended...its full of coloured houses many are made from.corrogated sheets .its a vibrant area , where the Boca Juniors team ,have a stadium
I absolutely love streets of coloured buildings ,so this area is a definite favourite
I found a lovely restaurant ,which had a shaded area and ordered a meal....
Nothing could have prepared me for what came....I asked for rump steak....i must have been given ,the entire cow ,or its entire rump.....it was huge....and rather overwhelming ....Ultimately ,i left sooo much and couldnt bring it away ,with staying in the hotel.Not only that ,the knives they provide ,are like a lethal weapon,and Id no hope of acquiring one .The vegetables were also lovely but in attempting to eat the steak couldnt eat all of them either
Then ,I asked for Malbec and got a trio of wines ,which equates to one glass! ...i drank the one that was Malbec ,and a bit of the other red,but i left the white wine having had a sip...not my thing
While eating,the train went right down the middle of the road ...there's no proper pavement...Iwas in an inner courtyard ,but saw it go past...It seemed insanely close to the buildings ,rumbling along ,honking a horn .Id have liked to see just how close it was
Using an Uber,I returned to my hotel .
In an unbelievable disvovery late at night ,I found shipping lists that named Dad,my Grandpa ,his wife,myauntie maria ,who wrote the Living Italian book ,all listed as passengers on several shipping journeys between ,Monervideo,Uraguay to Southampton.Dad was 4months old. Liverpool to Buenos aires ,Dad was 1yr old .Buenos aires to uk ,Dad was age 3.The document names the actual ships they travelled on
I also looked up my Grandpa's travels,sooo many journeys,including to Melbourne Australia by boat.
A very interesting and emotional dayRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Day Trip to the Tigre Delta
February 3 in Argentina ⋅ ⛅ 35 °C
A small group trip to the Tigre delta in Buenos Aires Province.Known as the Venice of South America as the area is totally water bound ....so services like taxis ,ambulances ,supermarket are all boats
There is a complete community in the Delta ,a boat sevice for drinking water,waste collection
Also restaurants ,approached from the water
The Museum of Art building,was built in the era my Dad was here ,but was a high class social club then
Really enjoyable outing ....Was approached by a young german guy who started chatting but I didnt care for his attitude so I moved away
We called at a retail.area ,where I msnaged to replace my hat .I left the one I had for my big trip ,somewhere en route !
Returning to BA ,I should have been taken for lunch ,but it didnt happen .So,after a brief time in the Souvenir shops I called in a restaurant and requested a small meal ,of salmon and salad Routinely ,it seems ,you are given bread that's absolutely dry and Knackered but served with a dip ,which somehow makes it slighly better
In stopping for a meal ,I missed walking back to my hotel in the rainRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
La Colonia de Sacramento Uraguay
February 4 in Uruguay ⋅ 🌬 26 °C
Discussing with the Reception staff ,whether to go to Colonia del Sacramento or Montevideo ,they said Colonia
So ,i arranged the visit for today
However,having discovered that Dad set sail for Southampton aged 4months ,from Montevideo,I am regretting my decision .Time here is now short .Talking with tour guides ,I explored going to Montevideo on 6th feb ,but as I have a flight from.BA on 7th the ferry times are too tight and I can't risk cancellation of the ferry
I was collected at my hotel at 7am ..and dropped at the ferry terminal ,to fend for myself ,not what I was expecting .Had to check in and through border control ,attaining a stamp.for my 23rd country since last March
The journey was an hour long
On arrival I approached the tour desk and myself and 3 other English speaking people were taken to the Historic centre of Colonia.
It seems it has been a hotly contested location between the Spanish and Portuguese over the years
It was a hotbed location for smuggling
A Jesuit Monastery here was left to rot ,after the order was disbanded . The ruin nows holds a functioning lighthouse,instilled when.the location of the Marina had to be altered
The guide gaves us the briefest of info...basically pointing out key aspects from a central ish stsnding still locstion ,and left us to it .Again ,not what I'd expected
I headed for the seashore and spent some time there
This was going to be a loooong day !! As the guide left us at 11 am and the ferry back wasnt till 5pm
Once round this really small location and you're done !
However ,thanks to the total lack.of guidance from.the guide I went twice round the place ,looking for the restaurant ,i had a voucher for ,for lunch..The food was Knackered ....so dry ....and the singer brought round envelopes ,saying it was so I could give a tip for his singing
Think my hearing is going with all the abuse.my ears take from.flying....so when the waitress asked about my having water ,i thought she said ,with ice,so i said yes ,i found out to my cost ,she must have said ,with Gas ,as i got fizzy water,which i dont like ,but I drank it
Lunch over, I wandered towards the boat terminal ,stopping again,to watch the waves for a while . The body of water between BA and Uraguay,is an Estuary and the world's widest river ...the Rio del plata
Arriving back in BA ,my driver brought me back to the hotel
I had a fruit smoothie and sandwich in the very nice reception area before returning to my room.to update my Penguins
A nice place ,but if there had been a boat back about 3pm that would have sufficedRead more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
2
Centenary Commemorations
February 5 in Argentina ⋅ ☁️ 26 °C
100 years ago today 5/2/1926 my Dad was born in this lovely city of Buenos Aires.
He was a cyclist ,cycling daily from 7, The Circuit to Portwood Stockport .So ,when I spotted a cycling tour of BA ,I rashly signed up.
This morning thankfully it was cool weather and in fact it rained for part of the time,so we all wore plastic ponchos.I had a pink one.
I became concerned I'd be the one holding the group up,having not cycled for soo long. In the group, were 2 Danish people who of course cycle all the time.So I thought about giving it a miss..but knew Id kick.myself if I did...It was destined to be a 3hr tour.
Thankfully there were lots of stops and I declared my incompetence and unfitness before we set off ,so it was a steady pace and not a race.
Unbelievably I had bike No 7 which made me think of 7,The Circuit ,our family home
I am.soo.glad I did the cycle tour..I saw the city from.a different perspective ,seeing things Id miss, if I'd not done this activity.
I cycled through parks I'd have otherwise overlooked and got explanations from.our excellent guide on so many things.
I was particularly happy to be returning to La Boca while cycling ,the colourful area of BA and ,I think ,my favourite area.
As I'd looked round La Boca a couple of days ago ,I went for a cup of tea,while the Danish couple had a walk round the area
I was quite delighted to recognise tea with milk written in Spanish ...What arrived was a mug of Hot Milk and a tea bag!🤦‍♀️🤣.I tried to explain this wasn't right and showed via google translate, i needed Aqua Calante..( hot water) but it didn't materialise ,so i paid and left...via a stop in the very dodgy Banos ( toilets) which had a pink corrogated metal sheet,as a door on the loo ,and no lock 🤣
A definite highlight though ,was to go into the Cathedral ,where Pope Francis ,had served as a priest....
It was hugely atmospheric and then ...the organ started ...(Mum.doing her thing ! ) This threw me off course.I'd been doing ok with the day up that point....Hearing an organ ,is always a curve ball !
There is a tomb guarded in the Cathedral by 2 guards at all times During our time there there was a changing of the guard.
I could have stayed much longer ,but,I think I pushed my luck ,as the guide came in to find me.....oops !
At the end of the ride I went to a nearby cafe for coffee and birthday cake.
Then ,it was time to jump in.an Uber and go to the tour of Teatre Colon .This is the famous theatre in BA ...where opera and ballet are performed ..Dad loved both ,Mum didnt ,so he never went to either .
The architecture in this building is amazing
The acoustics are spot on
Incredibly,within the chandelier in the ceiling of the auditorium,there is a secret orchestra "pit". Theguide showed us photos ,but to look up at it ,you would never know.
At the end of the tour,I found out there was a show this evening, so I went to try to get a ticket.,which I succeeded in doing .
I asked for an excellent seat and told the lady why that was important.
In fact ,Ive told everyone I've spoken to today why I'm.in BA today...and received lovely comments.
The cycle guide and the waiter,both said the story gave them goosebumps.
Id no idea what the show was about ,nor did it occur to me I wouldn't understand a single word,as it would all be in Spanish🤣🤦‍♀️
Id negotiated a deferred voucher for a meal at a restaurant at Porto Maderno ,which I should have had at the end of a day trip a couple of days ago ,but the guide failed to take me. I got an uber to the area.
The driver was very keen to come to M/c to see Oasis in M/c🤣....He dropped me off ,but when I googled the restaurant from the drop off ,it was a 15min walk and I simply didn't have time
as it was 5pm.and I needed to be back at the Teatre Colon for 6.30pm to queue to get in for the show
So ,I chose a lovely looking restaurant.It was empty....Argentinians eat late apparently...even9pm is early for dinner for Argentinians
I pleaded with the waiter for a small portion...He was horrified I should want a small portion of meat!
I ordered lamb to eat and Malbec to drink ...It was the most excellent meal....Ever !!
Jumping back in an Uber ,I returned to Teatre Colon.. I was able to go in the main entrance as I had an expensive seat.
.People with cheaper seats have to go in by the side doors,according to the guide this afternoon.
The show was good ,it was singing, tango dancing and a tango dancing band . I did tire of not understanding what was happening ...
I think it may have been about Tango starting in BA
I understood 3 words in 1.5hr show....Maria ,Buenos Aires ..plus odd bits here and there 🤣🤦‍♀️
To top off the day ,Ive received a reply from.the registry office,a document ,in swirly long hand ,clearly signed by my grandpa ,whose signature I recognise,as he used to write to me and I recently found a postcard he'd sent.
I can't properly make out what it says,as i only have my phone and the email explanation is in spanish 🤦‍♀️.
I will get some help with understanding that tomorrow.
I have certainly had a busy day,going out at 9am and returning at 9pm...
I feel satisfied that I have given Dad's 100th birthday befitting recognition....I've certainly not wasted any of the time today.Read more
TravelerSounds like you had a lovely day on your Dad's 100th birthday. Xx
2/6/26Reply
TravelerWhat a packed day. But all good for all the right reasons. Did you see the giant otters on Panama??
2/6/26Reply
Jo LoweCertainly was ,and became more so when i managed to get a ticket for the show only 4hrs before it started
2/7/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Gaucho Ranch Experience
February 6 in Argentina ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C
Today ,i went for a Gaucho ranch experience.Gaucho ,are Cowboy equivalent.. They traditionally carry a silver Knife ,tucked in their jeans ,at the back..They.wear leather belts ,with coins embedded ...The number of coins does depict a degree of wealth...The coins ,would be used during card games other entertainment
En route ,we called into Areco ,a traditional town,to see a traditional silversmith,who makes the Gaucho knives and other silver items I think the knives are passed down in the family
On arrival,we were shown the Bbq house ...it was boiling hot in there and the bbq was huge
We enjoyed a welcome drink whilst listening to some guitar music ,played by one of the family ,who own the ranch.
Then it was time for a horse riding experience.....half an hour ride round a field on the ranch...I finally used my riding helmet brought from home. I was the only one wearing a helmet...as I'd guessed we weren't issued with them. Seven others also rode ,no idea about their level of experience.
While the Bbq preparations were being completed we had chance to wander round the grounds ,including the original ranch house
Lunch was a Bbq of endless meat ! Gorgeous salads ,delicious malbec ,outdoors under the trees.So ,i was able to enjoy the food without scorching in the sun
And for desert...Neopolitain ice cream, which I've not seen for years
After lunch there was a demonstration of traditional music and dancing ..It was not long though ,before they had us up and dancing too...It was great fun and very relaxing
On the way back there was a drop off near the Catherdral I was very keen to have a 2nd look there and took the opportunity to do so
Returning to my hotel,I was chatting with the Reception staff about ,how early to leave for the airport in the morning ..The whole team have taken a real interest in the purpose of my visit.
I said I'd received a document from the Registry office ,that I didn't understand as was in Spanish and hand written .The receptionist offered to print it off and translate
Unbelievably ,it had the address associated with Dad Saenz Pena 105
Googling this ,we came up with an address for Dad 7mins from my hotel .If this is it ,that's epic .However,it was a significant distance from where District 13 was in 1926....when we googled that.It was exciting to feel I may have sussed it....We got photo from google maps for thrc Saenz Pena 105... a very nice corner building
Plus the address for the two named witnesses ...one adddress no longer exists. It seems it might now be part of the main highway through the city
The receptionist became excited,when he realised that one of the witnesses had lived ,on the same street he now lives . Half joking he said ,when are you going to look .I do think he actually wanted to come ,at this point .It was late evening and so I decided to defer till the morning ,en route to the airport
Ive been having a daily fresh fruit smoothly but having been out all day I missed it ...So I asked for one final one
An excellent last day in Lovely Buenos Aires.Read more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Journey to the End of the World
February 7 in Argentina ⋅ 🌬 11 °C
Math came to Ushuia ,in 2013 and its been on my go to list ever since
It is the southern most city in the world . It's known as the End of the World .From.here ,the ships set sail for the Antartic cruises
4 people on yesterday' s experience had just returned from.an Antartic cruise
So,a 5am start....and last min emergency research on the address we found last night
Googling Saen Pena ...it turns out there was a district in the Province of BA with this namw,so futrther out of the centre.This might be more conducive to the District 13 reference. On snap.decision,as time was short, i went with my gut instinct ,that this probably needed more investingation..before daahing off ....and to reconcile that if the building we found on Google maps is the one ,then i have stayed incredibly close for the past week
Relying on uber for the quick dash to the property we found and then on to the airport wasnt going to work ...Language barrier snd Uber's point to point system doesnt give much flexibility for a situation like this
So i said my goodbyes to.the Night receptionist ,who had been told by the evening receptionist that.we had found an address !...and headed for Jorge Newberry Domestic airport for the 3hr flight to Ushuia,the end of the world.
In looking for an argentinian travel.adaptor, i fell for purchasing an epic bag that has the strap to go over the handles of my cabin bag...Its expandable ,waterproof has usb charger and water bottle holder.
And , is also samsonite ,but i havent seen it.on Uk sites . Initially saw it in black and resisted but went round the other side of the display and dammit ,there it was in.yellow....I was sunk.!...I put my bag inside it ,bearing in mind my riding hat is in my backpack and it fitted perfectly ......🤦‍♀️🤣....That ! Was a very expensive charger....I do have multiple chsrgers but here is unique
On arrival,it felt like any thing but the end of the world....It was Busy !
I've realised thanks to a booklet from tourist info at the airport ,there' s far more to do here ,than the info available to me at home suggested or suggested by the Travel Local Travel agent....She is just that ...! Local ! And supposed to suggest stuff to do...I would have stayed longer ..its possible to Horse ride here and I wasnt told and didnt know
The scenery coming into land and driving to the hotel was beautiful....
The hotel has an amazing reception with Panoramic views of the harbour snd out to sea
It waz Unbelievably windy !
After a while in my room,I went into the centre in an Uber....Again it was busy!
I found a place to eat and ordered something with lamb.. When it arrived ,it was like dark brown ravioli .....i didnt really enjoy it but ate some...The Argentinians are great for giving bread with a meal so In made the most of that .
The travel agent told me to make sure I got a stamp to say id been to the end of the world.This is obtained in the Tourist Information office.Things seem to stay open till 8pm so i had quick walk along the pier and to the right place....I actually got a certificate which I stamped and dated
On my return to the hotel,i completed yesterday' s penguins watching the panoramic views in Reception,before acquirng a pot of tea from the hotel restaurant
I have now visited the Northern most tip of Europe ,Honninsvag in Norway and the Southern most City in the world ...These 2 places are about 9000km apart
They could not be more different
Honisvag feels like end ...but to me Ushuia doesn't ...as its so busyRead more
TravelerWhat a goal to achieve
2/10/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
The End of the World Train
February 8 in Argentina ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C
Today I went into the Tierra del Fuego National Park ,where I rode on the end of the world train
I thought this was a gimmick for tourists ...However ,it has historical significance....as it was used to take.Convicts to a prison in the national park where they endured hard manual.labour and seems also physical abuse. It was active in the early 1900's till 1940
So ,during my Dad's time in Argentina !. In the.station there were lots of artefacts inc a picture from the National Railway Museum in York !!
The.ride was an enjoyable 7mile journey.There.were many dead trees and stumps.The convicts job was to.chop the trees down and the height of the residual stump indicates the time of year,as if.there.was deep snow then the trees would be cut shorter
Next we went to Lake Roca,where the guide provided refreshments
The lake reminded me of Lake loiuse in Canada
Our next stop included seeing the world's most southerly post office ....I'd heard its possible to post a card here that does actually reach home.....but it was Shut !! Gutted !! ..The pier it's on needs repairs ...that haven't been done
We moved on to another point ,where the Beagle channel meets the river that the 1st settlers in.Ushuia used ..Port Arias..before returning to Ushuia

In the afternoon ,I enjoyed a helicopter flight...Have to say its the smallest heli ive been in ....!
I got the front seat again...as in canada and greenland
It was windy ...it was very noticeable in this toy size heli!
The pilot went round the mountains rather than over the tops which was bit disappointing ...but into a huge valley.
He landed the heli and we had a glass of prosecco
At the heliport,there is the 1st plane to fly to Antartica ,at the entrance.
On my return to Ushuia ,i visited the Prison that is now a museum
Each wing has been repurposed...to an art gallery with pictures in each cell,a maritime museum.a renovated block of cells with the prison story and ,one block kept in original condition....This block was grim and v .cold .There was only a corrugated sheet roof .
It was a really interesting place.
One prisoner short with big ears had serious arsonist tendancies from childhood ,but was convicted as unable to testify due to insanity...Hed also stabbed someone through the head.
It was 7p m sh when I returned to the hotel..I got into conversation with a guy from Dorset,who turned out to be a heli pilot for Quark Expeditions ..This was the company I went to Greenland with....The same ship,is due into Ushuai tomorrow...We chatted for about an hour and when it was time to go for dinner ,he ended the conversation ,so we sat separately for dinner,which I was disappointed about
A busy but enjoyable day...Certainly the prison wasnt something I knew about before I came...but glad I found out in time .Read more
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
No Walking with Penguins today😭 🤢😭
February 9 in Argentina ⋅ 🌬 13 °C
Today,I had scheduled a catamaran trip in the Beagle Channel ,to see the landmark light house and go Penguin Island and walk amongst the penguins
However at 7am.and for unfathomable reasons ,my digestive system suddenly decided I would be otherwise occupied today.....!
Not happy ....so at 8am.I had to cancel / try to rearrange.my trip that Id paid for ...No refund will be forthcoming and.rebook will mean re -paying .Id another trip booked for tomorrow ,they would only cancel on proof of a medical certificate .....which is rather tricky to go in search of when you are incarcerated ..
The trip tomorrow was canoeing on a lake....I decided I can do that anywhere ,but not so ,the Penguins trip....So I took the hit and rebooked the Penguins trip for tomorrow....its not exactly the same...unfortunately .I had to choose between sacrificing the boat trip in the Beagle channel,reaching the walking with penguins experience by bus and dinghy....or do the Boat trip in the.Beagle channel,see the birds ,seals ,lighthouse and prnguins ,but not get off and walk amongst them.....
This option ,seemed less of a compromise ,and was cheaper.
So I spent my day in my room.and eventually within the hotel.
Photo today are a mix from yesterday and others not been able to include so farRead more
TravelerHope you’re feeling better!
2/10/26Reply
TravelerSuch a shame, can you stay there for another day, or do you have onwards travels booked?
2/10/26Reply
Jo LoweThnx jill,tentatively eating again
2/10/26Reply
Jo LoweMaura, all is not lost re penguins...and yes onwards on 11th to Santiago
2/10/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
I found Penguins today 🥳🥳
February 10 in Argentina ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C
This afternoon ,I embarked on a catamaran trip.in the Beagle Channel.
We visited Les Eclareurs lighthouse which markes the end of the Bay of Ushuia ,Islas de los lobos and Isla de la Pajaros,where we saw birds and seals
Then onwards to Martillo island where we saw Magsllenic and Gentoo Penguins
I also.saw the dinghy i might have arrived in if id taken the bus and walking with penguins ....I am.so glad I didn't...the water was choppy and the wind was bitingly cold..
I was at least sheltered partly by our boat and could nip back inside...if too cold
If I"d taken the bus Id have missed seeing the lighthouse and the wildlife and the bonus sighting of a humpback whale which breached the waves a few times ,also saw the blow out of.air it does.....very exciting.I didnt see any in Greenland ,though apparently others saw them.daily .
The journey back included a really rough sea for a time.. The swell of the water is impressive ,but definitely wise to sit still and stay inside,given Im.recovering from yesterday
Otherwise ,im fairly sure Id have stepped outside briefly
Various cruise liners passed us en route to and from.Antartica ,which is only 1000km.from Ushuia...It was a good opportunity to eye them.up for the future !😅
This is my last full day in Ushuia
It hasnt matched my expectations of being wild and remote..On the contrary,at this time of year Ushuia is busy ,its peak season. The scenery is lovely but is surpassed by New Zealand and Greenland in my opinion.
Nevertheless I am delighted to finally tick this destination off the bucket listRead more
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A long transit day,-Argentina to Chile.
February 11 in Chile ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C
Leaving my hotel at 8am.this morning ,I went to the airport in Ushuia for the flight to Buenos Aires ,and onwards to Santiago,Chile.
Arriving BA, I wasnt sure if I needed the Domestic Terminal ,as I was still going to.be in South America...Turns out ,I needed the International terminal
It was the dash of my life...I arrived 1.30 pm.and boarding was starting 2.30pm...I had to get through security and border force and find the boarding gate in an hour
Tried explaining to security how tight my time was ,but they just sent me away....The was huge queue for border force ,but fortunately hardly any queue for the Biometric passport machine,which I was able to use.
I made it to the boarding gate on time
Then,as we were about to board ,the pilot went on strike !
Or so I got told ...Our flight was delayed by and hour...
I eventually arrived at my hotel in Sanitago..at 8pm..
I read a book on the flight today,which Ive not done before.

As the hotel had some dodgy looking meals covered in cling film.to warm up ,I went across the local mini market.to buy something to eat.
The view over the Andes coming into Santiago ,was fabulousRead more
TravelerIs it really 28 degrees centigrade? Doesn’t look that warm.
2/12/26Reply
Jo LoweWas certainly hot when got off the plane ..The app states the temp🤷‍♀️
2/12/26Reply
TravelerGlad you made it. Fate is with you. Xx
2/13/26Reply
Jo LoweSo it seems ,im relieved to agree
2/13/26Reply
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Tribute and Toucan Tour Jo Lowe
Valperisio and Van del Mer
February 12 in Chile ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C
Starting at 7am....and collected in a coach ,I embarked on a day to Valperisio and Van del Mer.
The chance to visit these locations with colourful houses and street art was the chief motivation for coming to Chile
I was suprised how poor Valparisio was but also how vibrant...and colourful .
The houses are intensely overcrowded and built precariously on the hillside
The hills are so steep they need to use the Fenicular railways to go up and down ...One dates from time of Queen Victotia
It had once been the main city in Chile until things were moved to Santiago ,leaving Valparisio to rot,(after a tsunami i think)
Van del Mer was also lively and the waves of the Pacific ocean were mesmerising
I realised that in Argentina ,Id been on the Atlantic Coast and now on the Pacific coast
The restaurant at Vin del mar had a sea view which was amazing
I chstted briefly with a girl who said she was British Airways Csbin crew . I was trying to explain about my chaplaincy role
However ,I felt she wasnt too receptive ,and said she'd seen the chaplains at Heathrow and wondered what they did. She didn't strike me as a people person,so I was suprised at her job role
A long but enjoyable day out .The guide spoke good English but in a sing song sort of voice making him,difficult to follow .Consequently I didnt learn much todayRead more
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Guided tour of Santiago
February 13 in Chile ⋅ ☀️ 31 °C
Santiago,is huge ,it seems ,built in a valley .One side appears to be loads of high rise buildings ,whilst on the other side of the hill ,there are far less
I was collected from my hotel and taken with a guide,a very nice girl ,for a guided walking tour of the San Cristobel area of the city.This area seems to have all the political departments ,eg The house of the Coin ,where the prime minister is based ,the Central Bank and the Dept of Human rights ...Lovely architecture ,the old,blending with the new and showing the different styles over time.
During the tour,we.went in the Cathedral.It had the wierdest Confessionals I'd ever seen!
No way could that priest be concentraring on the guy doing confession, as tourists kept going past I
The guide told me that the Chilean people are proud of their culture and strive for a peaceful existance,especially after the conflicts of the past
It was a super hot day ,to be walking round .I stopped and bought a fresh orange and some cookies for my guide
We moved on to the Cable car with great views over the City,as well as a beautifully simple chapel at the top.
I'd originally asked the guide to drop me in the santa lucia area ,but it was 2pm.when we finished and far too hot.So,I asked to return to my hotel.
About 6pm I went out to get a meal,thinking it would be cooler ..However ,it wasnt that much cooler
On returning to my hotel,i acquired a cup of hot water ..Ive already acquired milk ....so i can have a brew in my room without buying a cup of tea each time....the hot water is free😅Read more
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Into the Andes Mountains
February 14 in Chile ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C
I joined a coach trip that was going into the Andes mountains and included a picnic
The mountain road was winding and steep and my ears kept popping ,briefly, I also felt bit sickly.So I was glad to reach the 1st stop at El Yeso ,where there is a beautiful lake.We were.then told we could take the 1.5km walk to see where.the lake stretched for 6miles.....and we would be at this stop for 90mins .....not my thing at all....Ienjoyed the view for a bit and then mooched round to the other side of the lake,killing time
Our next stop was lunch ! This was confusing ,as i thought we were having a picnic.....so killing another hour,waiting for people to have lunch
Next we called a a quirky house / shop that sold coffee and chocolate
The final stop was a traditional Chilean dance show and the picnic.......which only bits of cheese ,bits of fruit and tiny crackers....plus wine
The dancing was enjoyable to watch .
A day with some enjoyable parts but not my favourite
On my return to hotel ,i packed my things ready for the morningRead more
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The long trip home
February 15 in Chile ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C
This journey is a slog on par with travelling from Oz and Nz
I set off at 8am to accomodate local traffic,only to discover thr taxi flew through in 20mins from my hotel to the airport.
The aiport was quiet and I had sky priority so quickly got through security
My flight wasnt until midday ,so a long wait from about 9.30am
Eventually boarded the plane and though it grieves me to say ,air france business class is very good ...it had many of thr features emirates have...hot towels ,champagne on arrival ,a quilt and pillow plua a quilted seat cover for whn you sleep
I had also been able to order my meal weeks ago ! 😅...snd they have the most sensible table of any airline,that is stored under the tv monitor and can be easily pushed away
However ...they did Not have ordinary tea....!!! So i had to get my case down and use my Yorkshire tea bags 🤣
I had a very comfy flight though somehow didnt sleep much despite the lie flat bed
We arrived in Paris at 6am local time ( 3hr time difference with Chile )
I had a 3hr wait for my flight to Manchester,which extended to 4hrs
Eventually on 16th Feb ,I arrived at Manchester Airport at 11.am.
Id been on the go since 8am the previous day
However I felt I would be safe to drive ,so went to collect my car at Matthew's houseRead more
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Trip end
February 16, 2026