Work is on hold, and I’m off to Chile! After binging “Flowers and Youth” and getting a glimpse of Santiago’s vibrant tour, I was instantly inspired and began crafting an ambitious travel itinerary.
My plan is to explore Valparaiso and Vina del Mar in a single day, hitting two incredible destinations at once! I discovered a perfect itinerary on TripAdvisor that aligned perfectly with my vision, so I set off with excitement. The houses and murals there are like living oil paintings, reminiscent of the colorful crayon drawings from my childhood.
I even mimicked a pose from “Flowers and Youth” with the Moai statues for a fun tourist photo, hahaha. The flower clock is a unique marvel; from a distance, it looks like a giant trumpet flower, and up close, the intricate carvings offer a deep dive into the local culture.
Nearby, I found a bustling fish market where I grabbed a delicious lunch. Recharged and ready, I headed to the El Peral viewpoint. The panoramic view of the city is breathtaking, far surpassing what you see on TV (I have to say, the real thing is a million times better). The locals I met on the way up the mountain were incredibly friendly and warm. When I got lost, a kind-hearted lady even personally guided me to the right path 🥺! It truly warmed my heart.
During my research, I learned that the Casablanca Valley is renowned for its wine, so I decided to indulge in some tastings. The winery owner, a charming old man, was incredibly generous and let me sample a variety of flavors. You can even create your own unique wine bottle here, which I highly recommend as a special souvenir. He also suggested a visit to Torres del Paine, so perhaps I’ll be back for another adventure, hahaha.
