Santiago: Pisco Piss-Up

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After arriving in Santiago at 7.30am, we were delighted to discover that our room at our hostel was ready and waiting for us. Exhausted, we made the most of this opportunity and had a quick nap before heading off to explore the city.

First stop on our flyby tour was Cerro San Cristobel; a hill with a view point overlooking the city. Somewhat reminiscent of Rio's Corcovado, it even has a large statue just like Rio's Christ the Redeemer (but female)...who we kindly nicknamed Mrs Redeemer! A rickety 10 minute Funicular ride and we were at the top of the hill overlooking the city. Although not appearing very large from the bottom, it still gave stunning views across the city with the snow capped Andes in the distance. Two Empanadas later and we were heading back down the hill.

Next stop on the agenda was Plaza De Armas, which is known for its street performers, shops, street chess club and it's nearby famous fish market called Mercado Central. The whole area has a great atmosphere, even during the day. Just as we were en route we were discussing how much of a mop Rich's hair was looking and that we hadn't seen any hair dressers in ages, next glance and there's a hair dressers. Before the thought of a Argentinian/Chilean style mullet, buzz cut or rats tail had entered his mind he was sat down in the barbers chair looking a little apprehensive. An HOUR later it was all done and thankfully still had a nice gringo cut and thankfully not a mullet in sight! The hair dresser thankfully spoke good English and gave us loads of ideas of things to do, so as soon as we had seen all of Plaza De Armas, we were off to our final destination of the day, Santa Lucia and a castle which sits on top of the hill...more nice views, blah blah blah.

The next morning we were up nice and early to see the remaining must do's in the city. So we headed over to an area called Barrio Brazil which is famed for its rustic crumbling buildings and street art...underwhelmed with what we saw, we didn't hang around for long and headed off to the fish market once again, this time for a fishy feast. Two whale sized pieces of Chilean bass later and we were off back to the hostel to throw on our glad rags for a few cheeky Pisco sours out and about. Having barely drunk anything for the past six weeks it wasn't long until we were slurring and swaying back to the hostel and passing out....zzzzz.

Next morning..."My head hurts", Gem groans...and that's how the day continued. Our last day in Santiago was a tired and hungover one. A short but sweet two night stopover.

Next stop, Mendoza. Wine country...uh oh!

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Comments

[natalie]

empanadas........yummmmmmmmmm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
hope you are both well.... xxxxxxxxxxxx