The first item on the agenda for the day was to move to the cabin next door. This is the second time we had to change cabins. This was a project but we managed to get moved and have everything put away in record time. By 11:00 we once again off the ship and ready to explore,
The Traveling Trio decided to spend the day in Valparaiso and see the sights of the harbor city. Once again we found ourselves at the bus station looking for local tours. For $30 each we booked a van with ten passengers and a guide who spoke Spanish, German, and English to take us around the city.
Our first stop was the Reloj de Flores or Flower Clock in the town of Vina de Mar.
We also had the opportunity to visit the Jaridne’ del Palacio Vergara (Vergara’s Palace Gardens) which had acres of beautiful trees and rose gardens.
What started as a four hour tour with an hour for lunch ended up being closer to seven hours. We spent time on one of Chile’s pristine beaches and ate lunch at Burger King to save time (and have a taste of home).
A dog's life in Chile.
$600 just to have it your way! Yikes!
We also drove past mansions, and stopped at the Museo Fonck where we saw a statue from Easter Islands,.. and rode a rickety funicular (open air elevator) down from the top of the Palacio Baburriza where our driver was waiting to take us back to the ship.
While this entry does not come close to describing the beauty and charm of Valparaiso, we hope you can get an idea through some of our photos. The port city is surrounded by 47 hills and the van ride through the streets reminded us of San Francisco.
Once back on the ship wehad to report for a muster drill before setting sail. Technically this was the first day of the third leg of the cruise. Meeting at our station was more like a get together with friends than an actual drill since we have met so many people during the past four weeks.
Tomorrow is a sea day – thank goodness. We need the rest.
Yay San Francisco! Does that mean my mommy misses her baby? She misses her mommy too! 10 days! (not that I would ever be wishing for the end of your fabulous trip!). I should think that you'd be getting better cell service now so you know what that means! And of course, hello to the other members of the trio!
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