| First off the plane, so I helped Paula round up the
group! |
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The fantastic blossom of the Jacaranda tree had all our
attention. |
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Signs of the protest march that had been held in
opposition to Mr Bush junior were apparent from the coach. |
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The Rio Mapocho cuts through central Santiago in its
short journey to the Pacific. [Mapuche is the word
for the original inhabitants of Chile.] |
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Many lovely parks and mini arboreta line the
river banks. |
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No, not mountains, cumulous clouds over the
modern part of the city. |
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jean (and I) enjoying the late spring sunshine. I
couldn't get used to the sun being in the north, though! |
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Our last few hours were spent exploring the fine shops of
Providencia. |
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Nothing old fashioned about Chilean
architecture. |
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Walking in this upmarket area of the city was a delight,
broad tree lined avenues and luxury apartments. I could live here! |
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Party time, and it's Pisco Sours in yet another nice
restaurant setting for our farewell dinner. |
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and that was 'it'. A great evening with a great group of
people from all walks of life. |
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Martin did acquire a reputation for
gathering small animals!
Not the peacock though, that was resident. |
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Later, we had a whistle stop tour of
Santiago by night, courtesy of Jeans friend Lorna and her husband who
chauffeured. |
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If its 11 am, its time to head for the
airport and, eventually, home.
Nice hotel, I could stay there again.
|
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| Chile is an amazingly diverse, successful and
hospitable country. It was an expensive trip, but one which provided many
memories.
Thanks to Bales, Paula, George, Patricia and all our travel mates! |