Valparaíso & Santiago
After an amazing day exploring Machu Picchu we caught a flight to Santiago, Chile and from there a bus to the port city of Valparaíso, Chile - known for its incredibly steep streets, cobbled alleys, and colorful clifftop homes. The port itself is a major distribution center for container traffic, copper, and fruit exports (Chile is one of the largest exporters of blueberries in the world). Valparaiso has all great characteristics of a port city - street artists, dive bars, and live music on various corners and down alleys. We spent 3 nights relaxing and exploring the city...
After a day exploring we were treated to a home cooked meal by local "famous" Chef Claudio (our Airbnb host). His food was some of the best we have had on our trip to date!
Claudio and host Kara were the best, not only did they treat to an awesome dinner they also took us out for a night on the town, love us some live music! ...
After a late night out, Claudio had an amazing breakfast spread waiting for us, he even baked homemade bread for us every morning... the good life!
Breakfast was followed by an afternoon lounging on the beach. We hopped in Claudio and Kara's car and drove with them to the local hangout, Laguna Verde...
The next day was spent doing what we love best, not having a plan and roaming the streets...
From Valparaiso we made our way to Santiago for 2 nights, started off with a walking tour and a visit to the largest plaza in the city, Plaza de Armas...
The following picture isn't much to look at, but the story is quite an interesting one. Rumor has it that local coffee shops in Santiago had to compete with big bad Starbucks when they made their way into town. So, to compete coffee shops like these began popping up with tinted windows, tinted because what goes on inside is scandalous... essentially, a Hooters on steroids serving strictly coffee from the 9-5 work hours only in commercial buildings. Also known locally as "coffee with legs"...
Speaking of food, in Chile the most traditional empanada filling is called "pino". Pino is a seasoned mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, black olives, and hard boiled eggs. Laura's favorite "pino" empanada to date...
(that last piece is actually what Laura is offering Sean so he can try it!)
Awesome, awesome! Keep the posted coming. You kids look great and so at ease! Happy for you.
love Mom
Wonderful sites!
Enjoy…..you both look great!
Mi Ciudad Favorita!!! <3 <3 SO happy that you enjoyed Valpito, and got to go to La Piedra Feliz!! They have great live music ALL the time! Keep enjoying the adventure!!!
Awesome pics! Looks like u guys had a blast. That meal you can’t remember the name of in the ceramic plate is called “pastel de choclo” it’s made out of corn, seasoned meat with onions, olives, etc. some people like to eat with sugar sprinkled on top of it.