The plane landed by the Straights of Magellen. One of those places like Samarkand and Timbuctu which I once thought lived only in the imagination.
It was windy and white caps frothed briskly across the water. There were a couple of wrecked boat hulls and not much else. A scene changed little since Magellen went on his world exploration in the 16th century. A masted schooner here… in full sail...this wind…? Doughty sailors indeed.
We deplaned, found our contact, clambered into vans and began the five hour drive to Torres del Pines National Park and the Explorer Lodge - our home for the next six nights. This has been a long journey. 9:45 am SFO. Stop over at LAX. Unscheduled plane change at 3:00 am Lima. Upside of that was a chance to fly on the new dreamliner. On takeoff and landing lights change from pale blue to pink to red to orange. Comfortable seats too. Arrival at Santiago 8:00 am. Guide wanted to change city tour to morning from afternoon. Nothing doing we were headed to hotel for shower and nap.
Two days later on our way again - a 4 hour flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas stopping once along the way. Breathtaking views of the Andes from my window.
Now, destination Explorer soon. Can't wait.
TTFN
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