To think that a little idea, a little dream, a little something nagging at me turned into This. Finally, an adventure I can feel with all my senses. To think that today I ate real gelado, fed pigeons with Chilean toddlers in a park, wore flip flops, climbed a hill that overlooked the entire city, and saw some of the only surviving pre-Colombian pottery! But its all true, and its incredible and already I am getting ahead of myself... So let me go back to where the story really starts. Hopefully a picture is really worth a thousand words in this case. Trying to explain how all my feelings and senses were jumping at these moments may take me 1,000 words or more!
At the airport, then the drive from Santiago to Algarrobo passing the Andes, vineyards, and finally arriving within an hour to Pacific coast.
See the reflection of our bus and all of our luggage! It really caused the Chilenos who were vacationing to stare... a group of 12 US students was a bit unusual in this sleepy beach town.
At the airport, then the drive from Santiago to Algarrobo passing the Andes, vineyards, and finally arriving within an hour to Pacific coast.
See the reflection of our bus and all of our luggage! It really caused the Chilenos who were vacationing to stare... a group of 12 US students was a bit unusual in this sleepy beach town.
Hotel Pacifico What an introduction to Chile, the kindness of the people, the tranquility, the food! oh the food! the wine, the pisco sours... the hospitality that preceeds the Chilean reputation. 
The view from our room.... Sunny everyday. These colors were just part of the vibrant flavor of Algarrobo.
Visit to Pablo Neruda's house, where we wandered in awe of his vista, his collections, and the grandeur of his casa (especially for a communist!)
The view from our room.... Sunny everyday. These colors were just part of the vibrant flavor of Algarrobo.
Visit to Pablo Neruda's house, where we wandered in awe of his vista, his collections, and the grandeur of his casa (especially for a communist!)
Neruda refered to himself as El Capitan- captain of his house here which was built to look and feel like a boat. Rooms had different themes and contained his various collections. He called himself a "cosista"- a collector of things. And things he had. I believe the tour guide told us upon entering the house something to the effect of "Neruda was a lover of wine, women, and the ocean." Thus, his house was abundant with all things womanly, winely, and oceanly.
The Group with all its surprises, reliefs, and shared feelings. The good moments we've had together already within a few short days. 
Beginnings & Unknowns: Well, we are still at the beginning. This next part is just another chapter.
