Our last day. Yesterday was drop dead gorgeous - not a cloud in the sky and about 70 degrees with just enough breeze to keep from getting too warm. Too bad we were in Peulla with not much to do. Took everyone else on the short hike to the Cascada and out to the lago, but after that, just sat around waiting for the 4PM boat to take us back to Puerto Varas. More on the Hotel Natura - the towels were so rough and smelled like they had been left in a wet washing machine too long. Mine had black smudges which looked like someone had polished their shoes with it. Everywhere we have gone in southern Chile, we were served wonderful little round rolls at the start of the meal. Most places, they were warm and fresh out of the oven. They were available all 3 meals we had at the Natura and were stale every time. Wonder when they make them?
Anyway, back to Puerto Varas and the Cumbes Hotel. Almost kissed the floor when we walked in. Walked to an Italian restaurant Alessandrino's with awesome pizza and gnocchi. Great birthday dinner for Dean and JoAnn. Their "individual" pizza was large enough for 2. A beautiful salad with procuitto, soft white cheese, ripe tomatoes and lettuce. I was so sad that I couldn't eat the whole thing.
This morning is so socked in with fog, we can't even see the lake from here (which is right across the street from our hotel). Headed downtown for some last minute shopping.
A few more observations: everyone here wears the basic Patagonia jacket - light weight channel stitched down filled nylon, perfect for most weather. There are dogs everywhere and they are very well behaved. Some do not seem to belong to anyone in particular, but they all are well fed and groomed. Sometimes they will follow you for a distance, but they are not pushy, just kind of looking out for you. Have seen a few cats, but not as prevalent as dogs. The people are mostly pleasant and greet you with Hola or Buenos Tardes (actually more like Bueno tarde), although the ones at Peulla were generally not too friendly.
Its hard to believe we have been here for nearly 2 weeks. We have put on a lot of miles and seen an incredible variety of places. It's a long trip to get here and a lot of miles in the country to travel. Probably will not return, but it has been a great experience. Adios
