After crossing the border into Argentina and Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, we reached Lago Frias. Whilst we had our passports stamped, we used the bathroom facilities and had an opportunity to sample the famous chocolate caliente. I never tasted such yummy hot chocolate and look forward to more of it once I am in Barlioche. We took our second lake crossing from Puerto Frias to Puerto Blest. At Puerto Blest, we had an hour stopover where some took a walk to the Cascada Los Cantaros whilst others including myself just wanted to relax in the restaurant drinking coffee. I took the opportunity to update my diary and did some reading. The time came when we boarded our boat for the last lake crossing from Puerto Blest on Lago Nahuel to Puerto Panuelo. This is when the ... read more

After a very long overnight sleepless bus journey from Santiago, I arrived in Puerto Varas. At least the journey was very comfortable. I am amazed with the cama seats and the amount of space available. I may not have slept well but I was comfortable and did not feel cramped - a contrast to being on a plane! It was a bit of a walk to the guest house from the terminus but worth it for the welcome I received. Mauricio and co gave me a warm welcome and nothing seemed to be a problem. My room was not ready but I had breakfast and freshened up whilst my room was being made. Soon as I got myself organised, I had a wander. I wandered along the Lago Llanquihue's shoreline. This is where I saw my ... read more

I decided only to devote one day in Santiago. I spent a month there last year learning Spanish. I am satisfied of what I had already seen there on that trip. This time, Santiago would only be used as a base at the very beginning and the very end of my trip. It is likely I will be going through the bus terminal to changes buses for elsewhere during the trip. Cerro San Cristobel I began the day exploring the park. Last year, I rode up on the funicular and saw the Virgen de lmmaculada. This time, I wanted a ride on the telefrico and the ride was worth it for the views, although smoggy, of the Andes. I was in need of some exercise so I did a lot of walking around the park. It ... read more

In a couple of hours time, I will be on my way to Manchester Airport. All my stuff is packed, everything organised and the PC is just about to be switched off. I will touch base once I arrive in Chile. Now I am hoping for a problem free flight and journey.... read more

For the past month or so, there was uncertainty whether I would be going to Chile or not. There is a lot happening in my life including my health problems and various issues. There were times that I simply wanted to cancel my trip. With a lot of thinking and praying, I decided now to go ahead with my trip and adjusted my itinerary. The plan now is to head to Southern Chile on the following day of my arrival instead of spending the first few days in Santiago. I spent a month in Santiago last year and I am more or less satisfied of what I have already seen there. My flights are now ticketed (Thanks to the rising fuel costs, I had to pay more money on the flights...doh) and I now only need ... read more