Beach Bums in Arica

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Matt writes -

Arica was a warm relief after the rain and altitude of La Paz as Emma and I travelled with a Norwegian Hannah, Swede Anders, and Dutchman Jip. We had a confusing half an hour at the Bolivian/Chilean border where the bus conductor took the passports from everyone for checking elsewhere, whilst we missed another fantastic view of a snow capped volcano in the distance obscured once again by grey clouds. Our journey would take us through the beautiful national park of Lauca, although the weather would deny us this view also.

Refreshments were taken at the beginning of darkness and a slither of orange sunset could be seen in the distance as we hoped for better weather at our destination. Our excitement was fuelled as we drove into town and past pedestrians clad in short & tee shirts. Not an anorak in sight.

We had a late night drink on the beach after being ushered away from the drink shop (public drinking is illegal here). It was great to feel like a teenager sneaking down the park with a bottle of Thunderbirds (although we were slightly more discerning with our choice of beverage and those who were smoking were not bum sucking their fags).

The next morning was of brilliant blue as we hunted down some accommodation. We also found that Carnival happened early in Arica and so the entertainment was ensured for our stay.

Three days were enjoyed on the beach, drinking, eating and enjoying conversation. Arica's carnival was full of colour, majestic dancing and glorious costume.

A fresh seafood market and fruit stalls were open to tempt us on the way to the beach. Not only blessed with white sand but a bar which made you stay when you arrived with its cool beer and piña coladas. What a great way to recharge before we all went separate ways on our travels.

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Photos

Beach Bums
And we have got toys too! - Photo Hannah Gitmark

End of a Great Day
We couldn´t leave the beach until this was over

Lets do Lunch
Pretending its someone´s birthday in a Restaurant has its advantages - photo Jip

Old boys club
These boys could give the pan pipes in Manchester´s Market Street a run for their money

Dancing Warriors
While the female dancers seduced with grace, the male troupes were full of fearsome energy

Plenty of Brass
The engine of any carnival procession is its band

Our procession is this big...
No honestly, I think it was bigger.

Chillin
Waiting for sun down - Photo Hannah Gitmark