Chile adventures begin

We really didn't know what to expect during this visit, an hour out of Santiago, near Melipilla town. But it has worked out great, and proven yet again that we are blessed with the generosity and openness of people we didn't know: Rodrigo, the father of one of Mark's work colleagues at home, and his partner Marcela.

We've had a brilliant time! On Friday we had a delicious dinner and a great sleep. Saturday: a relaxing morning, looking around the property, then to a nearby organic winery run by a friend of Rodrigo's.

In the splendorous location and in perfect weather, over delicious bottles of wine and scrumptious food, we had deep, passionate conversations about the state of the world and how best to live our lives. We were joined by Patricio (Pato), the owner, who added greatly to the animated talk. These types of impassioned conversations seem very Latino; in general Aussies just don't seem to get so animated.

For a break, we went off for a hike up a gully, dressed inappropriately and without enough water, but it was great! Upon returning to the car we realised we'd lost Marcela... And enacted a plan to rehydrate ourselves and find her. Turned out (half an hour later) she was fine - just off in nature being her ethereal self!

Overall we had lovely connections with Marcela and Rodrigo, and are so grateful for their wonderful hospitality, openness, and willingness to host us ♥️.

These days followed a couple in Santiago, where we observed the following: Noisy, cramped backpacker hostels are not for us (but we still met nice people there); Molly and I do love second-hand clothes shopping; the old city has beautiful buildings; Avenida Italia has great food; we generally liked the vibe of the people/place; people drive way more orderly than in Peru; and all the warnings about personal safety put me really on-edge! It was a relief to leave.

Next we're headed further away from the city (via the city and a train); to the south... Let's see what that brings.Читать далее