HEADING TO SANTIAGO

Two days of go go go, but we've seen much, learned much, and experienced every kind of weather. We have been joined by "Charlie" , a very very funny man who is an American but has lived in Puerto Varas for over 30 years! While trekking around this rural area, he has shared hilarious anecdotes, and laughs. We have driven by countless sheep and cattle ranches. These Chileans and Argentines LOVE their meat. LOVE! We see so many beautiful horses, all working the herds with their dogs. It is beautiful to watch, and the gauchos aren't too shabby either!!
We went to do a small hike yesterday, and my friend, Ulricka, and I along with our Guide, Silvana...got lost on volcanic rocks. We got the giggles, but were found by "Charlie" and led back like bad little kids! We tried to get to one of the many volcanoes in the area, but it was socked in and starting to snow, so made the looooog winding road BACK to the flat land. This is where Charlie was instrumental and keeping me from getting too car sick. Finally, we arrived at a state park to see the river rushing through the lava fields. Silvana asked me if I wanted to go on a "raft" ride in the rushing torrents. Of course....until I had my life jacket on and saw the "raft" was a jet boat! Nothing against speed, just a flash back to my New Zealand Jet Boat fun. NOT!