My random thoughts and reactions to my everyday life. The voices like a forum. |
I do not know quite what happened or when , but my hubby and I now qualify for seniors' discounts at some venues. This creates a quandary; in order to save money, but not face, we have to admit to our age. HMMMM..... We definitely do not consider ourselves to be old. In this day and age ,when people as a whole are living longer and healthier lives why are 'young seniors', those in their fifties, like moi, considered 'old'?? It's so true that age is just a perception! "Maturity" is very objective/subjective, and I object! Whew, a few years have skittered by since I composed this biography block. Those "fifties" are in the rear view mirror and they are distant, fond memories. Oh, I do not plan to stop writing any time soon. |
DAY 20 August 20 August 20 See the enchanting frozen landscapes of Chilean Patagonia on a 4-day excursion from Puerto Natales. Marvel at the monumental glaciers and floating ice floes of Ultima Esperanza Fjord; visit a rustic cattle ranch after a scenic drive through Patagonia’s dramatic countryside; and gaze at the steep slopes and shimmering lakes of Torres del Paine on guided hikes. Gain a fascinating insight into the region’s history and geology from your knowledgeable guide and enjoy selected revitalizing meals. Luxuriate in 3- or 4-star accommodation and enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from Punta Arenas airport Feast your eyes on the dramatic sights and enticing landscapes of Chilean Patagonia on this enriching 4-day excursion. Gaze at the frozen witchery of glaciers and see the snow-capped peaks of Torres del Paine mountains; witness the wild country tableaus of the National Park and cruise past the languid ice floes of Ultima Esperanza Fjord on a unique boat journey. Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from the airport, a choice of 3- or 4-star accommodation and selected meals as indicated by the Itinerary section below. Itinerary ---Day 1: A Punta Arenas -- Puerto Natales After being met at Punta Arenas airport, catch the bus to Puerto Natales bus station, from where you’ll be transferred to your evening’s accommodation at your selected hotel. The rest of the day and night are yours to explore on your own. Accommodation: Saltos del Paine Hotel (four-star, choice of twin or single room), Costraustralis Hotel (four-star, with ocean view and choice of twin or single room) or Indigo Hotel (four-star, choice of twin with ocean view or single room) in Puerto Natales Sleep well , because tomorrow we're going on adventure of a life time. . Can you believe we've been exploring South America for twenty days now? Today, we travelled by bus for three hours until we disembarked in Puerto Natales, Chile. Peeking out the windows, I noted sheep, sheep, and more sheep. I tried to uphold my end of a conversation, but I may have lapsed into a nap. There's something about the swaying of a vehicle... Hmmm..... Puerto Natales is a small waterside town with a harbour. I strolled in that general direction, and watched the wooden fishing boats. There are ports similar to this anywhere in the world. People quietly get on with their lives, and keep busy. Back in town, I decided to rent a bicycle. It was meant to be a spontaneous act. Locals pointed my wobbly wheels in the direction of the Mirador Cerro Dorotea a "nearby" private hiking trail. After much huffing, puffing, and pedaling I found the well-marked entrance to this trail. Huh, nobody mentioned the incline.... This was well worth all my effort. I hiked through meadows and woodlands, climbing ever higher. Whooee, it was windy at the summit. The majestic view took my breath away, or was that my protesting lungs? For some reason, the return ride to town was less taxing. I may have even coasted for a bit. All my physical exertions provoked my appetite. I wandered into Patagonia Dulce where I was delighted to find exquisite pastries and divine coffee. I pre-burned any extra calories today. Be still my sweet tooth. This café also dared to sell tempting handmade chocolates. Sated, I stumbled out onto the street. My eyes were enchanted by local artesan crafts created from rainbow hued alpaca and sheep wool. The ponchos, dolls, hats, sweaters, and blankets vibrated with bright colours. How could anyone fail to feel anything but happy in such garments? I had no problem relaxing tonight. My eyes and legs were equally weary as I checked into my hotel, The Indigo. How could there be anything terrible about a place with such a pretty name? The blues of this trip have been fantastic. |