Home - Travel Update

We are home.  I decided to just do a video to say how we are doing and what all transpired since we left home, during our time in Chile, and the trip home.

The Cookie Has Crumbled

Well today started out good.  We slept in, did some wash and then went out for a hike and wander around.  

When we returned home there was a message from my agency saying the cruise was cancelled.

Because I am a guest entertainer I had to contact my agency who put me through to Celebrity's booking people.

We managed to get flights out on Monday morning with 25 hours of travel to Sydney Nova Scotia.  

Not impressed with airlines that were jacking up the prices when the demand rose for flights for tomorrow and Monday.

Since our Airbnb is over tomorrow we booked a hotel at the airport for the night.

This has cost a lot of money - since Bernie's flights are not covered.  So we lost the cost of the flight from San Diego home, and had to pay for the flight from Santiago home for him.  They will at least reimburse my costs.

As much as we are struggling I know there are so many that have it much worse than us.  We will muddle through.

I am worried about the industry and all those that are affected because of this.  Cities that are getting cancellations, tours, hotels, restaurants, transportation, and so much more.  Will they survive.  I know of many who have had their hours at work cut back.  Even some that have been laid off.  

But this does have us reconsidering our summer plans.  We will wait to see.

Thanks for all the support you all are the best.

Historic Walking Tour and a Riot

Who says life is boring!

Today we had a tour within the city of Santiago that started right downtown at the President's Palace.  We decided to head downtown early and roam around.  Good thing we did.

We live very close to the #1 Metro line and it takes us right downtown about 5 metro stops away.

When we tried to enter the metro station by us it was closed.  No one seemed to know why.  So we hopped on a bus (oh I love Google Maps) and off we went towards town.  Oh but then there is a detour and off we go maneuvering around something, for which we figured was a protest.  The entire street was closed.

When we turned back onto the street we could see something in the distance but not sure what.  As we inched forward in the bus, a passengers proceeded to close the windows - now it is hot here so closing windows is not done lightly (and no buses are not air conditioned).  

We could see smoke, or what we thought was smoke was actually tear gas.  We knew we had to get off the bus.  The driver opened the doors and pretty much everyone got off.  We walked away from the demonstration.

Now for those of you who are not aware of the issues here in Chile - google it. But the people are fighting back against a right wing government.  They are demanding a change for the people!  The economic divide here is horrendous and they are fighting for a change.  Now the government has called for a referendum in April and that has calmed many.  However like many mass demonstrations there has been a small group of protesters that have been horrible and very destructive.

They have put buildings on fire, destroyed metro stations (that are still closed today and not sure when they will be repaired).  Major and small business have been under attack by destroying the building.  They have taken down/destroyed street lights only adding to the chaos with traffic.  Graffiti is EVERYWHERE all over business, walls, statues, anything.  

Sadly this small group is made up mainly of those that are younger and seem to have no regard for people and the destruction they have done.

So back to us walking away.  Right away we were feeling the effect of the tear gas.  (Only four countries use tear gas on their people - Chile being one).  The army/police spray tear gas on the rioters and of course it gets in the air.  We could smell it and it caused us to cough and our eyes burned a bit and we were quite a distance away (like a block away).

We back tracked and then went up a few blocks and then came back to the main street only to come right up to where the rioters were throwing rocks at the army/police (sorry I don't know who or if it was both).  The police were spraying water to hold them back and enclosing on them.

We back tracked again and came out were it was all clear. Although many sites around the Palace had fences around it limiting the people entering.  

After about an hour it had died down considerably.

We never felt in any real danger but we knew we had to get away.  It was certainly eye opening.

Our guide Pablo met us and toured us around the city.  Sadly many places were closed just for protection for possible rioters. But we still walked for over three hours with him and he showed us a lot.

We are very glad we took the tour and glad we learned a lot more about the troubles that face the people and the country.

That night we met up with Carlos for a fun meal and then to a bar for drinks.  These sandwiches are traditional Chilean food!

We shared these and no we could not finish them either.

Of course we had pisco, one pisco sour and one piscola.  Bernie was feeling no pain.  Lots of great laughs and fun and a day we won't soon forget.

Wine Tour to Casablanca

Again we booked a great tour thru Airbnb Experiences.  This tour was a full day with just the two of us at a price that was the same as the big bus tours.

As many of you know Bernie and I love wine.  Yeah we are not wine connoisseurs but we know what we like.

We were met by Dominic in his car early in the morning and we dodged rush hour traffic to the Casablanca Region, which is about an hour away, on the way to the Pacific.

Our first winery was Atillio & Mochi and talk about special!  The owner came to the gate and opened it for us.  We were greeted by Frank their dog.  The winery is owned by a Brazilian couple who love wine and started it as a hobby winery but started to be recognized for the quality.  It is cared for by them both and one full time staff.  

We walked among the vines and tasted the variety of grapes and the difficulties they face. Water being a big one.  This area is facing a major drought (for the past 7 years).  They are praying for a wetter winter (which is during our Summer months).  

It is such a lovely area and we are blown away at how unique a tasting this is.  We get to taste the wines and talk to the owner!  We bought two wines.  We so would of loved to have bought more but so hard when we are travelling and shipping costs are crazy and then the duty you have to pay.

Our second stop was at Villard Winery where Alejandra showed us around. Again another family run winery that feels like you are sitting with friends.  

Alejandra took us down to the grapes and explained the conditions here and what makes the wine so unique.  

Then up to the processing area and the work that goes into making a wine and the little things that can change to make each batch a little special.

The tasting area is on a patio that overlooks the valley and the grapes.  Stunning!  We were able to taste all the wines and not just a small mouthful like we often get at large vineyards, here it was a few tastes.

We again bought two bottles.

Dominic asked us if we wanted to get lunch.  Now he normally takes people to another winery with a great meal but it is a rather expensive spot (although worth the price I am sure).  But after talking with us all day and getting to know us and our vibe he suggest a local place.  Nothing fancy but really authentic.  Oh we are so into that!

He takes us to a cute small town and this little family run restaurant. Picnic tables on dirt floor with dogs roaming around.  The food was outstanding!  And so authentic.  And man was it cheap. Maybe $15 for the three of us to eat and drink!

By the end of the meal we are tired and Dominic takes us right back to our apartment.  We are full from a late lunch so opt to skip dinner and just snack on cheese, bread, nuts, and fruit and of course some wine. 

We enjoy all of it on our balcony with a stunning view.  Damn life is good.

Update for Bernie and I in Chile

We are still here in Santiago Chile. 

We are scheduled to sail on Sunday from here up the coast to San Diego. 

Since this is a guest lecturing position and they are paying our way we are obligated to fulfill our contract. 

The Cruise ban came after we left Canada. If it would of been before we would of not gone. 

We have no concerns with getting on the ship, but from there we don't know what the outcome will be. Not sure which ports we will dock, or where the ship will end (hopefully San Diego). 

We have registered with the Canadian Consulate and they know of our travels. We are both feeling physically great and yes we are washing our hands tons. 

Very few cases in all of South America. 

We just really want to get on the ship where there will be amazing crew, great food and drink.  I can think of no better place to be - oh and the weather is hot here.


If things change we will update. Stay tuned

Bernie is Famous in Chile

Last night as we walked around Chile many of the bars were broadcasting a futbol game (soccer). 

The bars were lined with fans watching the televisions.  

As we passed we kept hearing Scolari!  And this happened quite a bit. 

Our friend Carlos commented on it and told us that Scolari is a famous soccer coach.

So what do you think?  Does Bernie look like Scolari?  

What is funny is our friend Carlos had a picture with Bernie from years ago on the cruise when we were in Rio and even Carlos' father thought he was having a picture with Scolari.

Fun in Santiago.

Cruising Update

We are getting messages left right and center from friends, acquaintances, and people we don't know.  Even got a message from a friend today who we have not heard from in years with only "are you safe and okay".  I didn't respond.

We are both fine, actually better than fine we are great.

Yes things are a little crazy right now, and something I have never experienced in my almost 30 years of cruising.

For now we are really enjoying Santiago, minus the riots (which I will write about later).  Our plan is still to travel to San Antonio on Sunday to board the Eclipse unless we hear otherwise.  My faith is in Celebrity and waiting for their call.

Since this is a cruise that I am a guest entertainer my cruise, flights are covered by the cruise line.  So I have to wait for word from them.  Currently the sailing prior to ours is going well with no issues.

I have faith in the industry and that is what I have to do right now.

So for today we are doing wash and heading out to do more exploring and I can see enjoying a bottle of wine later on our deck with a stunning view.

Lunch at Our Friends Restaurant

As many of you know we have made life long friends with many of the crew.  One of those friends is Carlos from the Photography Department,who we first met on his first contract many years ago.

We sailed together a few times and kept in touch via Facebook.  When we knew we were coming to Santiago we reached out to him.

First thing he said "you have to come to my family's restaurant"!  Well of course we will.

This afternoon is the day.

The restaurant is called Nuevo Sabor Sureño and you can find it here. 

We arrived to big hugs and kisses (screw Corona Virus) from Carlos and his entire family.  This is what travelling is all about - connecting with people.

We all take a seat and the pisco sours come out!  

Then the empanadas hot out of the oven!  Stuffed with meat.  So good.  But I am getting full.

A lovely bottle of Chilean wine and we raise a glass!

Then for the main course a hearty meat dish (like a stew) served with potatoes, corn, sweet potatoes and beef that falls off the bone in a flavorful broth that warms you from the inside.

Also a traditional pork dish with tender braised pieces of pork wrapped in pork skin which only made the meat more tender and that skin was darn good.  Served with two types of homemade sausages and again served with potatoes.  Oh and warm fresh bread.

Carlos' step mom brings out the dessert a custard type dish with a sweet caramel type sauce.  I know I am not doing any of these dishes justice.  But they were fabulous.

Then of course father brings out a little shot of liqueur to end the meal and help with digestion.  

OMG I am so full - and a little drunk.

This place serves authentic Chilean food from the South.  Hearty food that goes back generations and for which his family is still making today.

It was an honoured to be guests here and to get to experience a little of Carlos' culture. 

We kept saying that cruise guests staying in Santiago would LOVE this type of experience.  He is going to work at setting something up, but in the meantime if you are interested in learning more let me know and I will hook you up with Carlos directly.

First Day in Santiago Using Hop On Hop Off Bus

When we woke we felt rested and excited to take on the day. 

Since we did not find a grocery store that was open late on a Sunday we had to go out for breakfast.  We find a nice little French Cafe that served a simple breakfast plate for $9,900 ($12 US) which included an espresso drink, fresh juice, 3 small pastries, toast and avocado.  

Going to a country where there is a different language is always interesting.  I asked for crema (meaning I wanted cream in my americano) and when I got it, it had this!  Yup whipped cream.  I laughed and scooped it of and drank it. The fun of travel.

We then went over to the meeting spot for the Hop on Hop Off Bus and when it arrived our bands were scanned.  Ear phones provided (which Bernie's broke within a few minutes) and off we went.  

It is hot out and sitting up to with the breeze is a welcome sight.  

The audio is okay and the person speaking speak very good English but I had trouble understanding at times.  Often too we would pass something and hear the description only to travel two blocks or so and hear the same thing.  Then it would cut out completely.  Then there was a totally different commentator.  

The route has been cut back immensely due to the riot areas (not that there were riots but the remnants of the riots are an issue).  A lot of street lights are out causing traffic to be a total mess.  But once you clear those areas all is good.

We stayed on for the entire route and yes it was interesting.  But would I recommend, definitely not.  Not worth the money.  Book a private tour instead and explore that way.

First Night In Santiago

We had previously booked an Airbnb for Santiago.  Here is a link to the blog where I give tips on booking an Airbnb and with our current apartment.  

When we arrived the concierge had our key waiting for us.  When we walk in the first thing we do is put on the Air Conditioning the second is notice a lovely bottle of wine and a box of chocolates waiting for us.  It is the lovely little touches that mean so much.

We get settled and put things away and then we both lay down for a short nap.  There is minimal time change (one hour) from home but we are tired for a long night on a plane.  After an hour nap we shower and dress and head out to explore.

It is early evening on a Sunday and not much is open.  The area we are staying is quite safe but you still need to be aware of your surroundings.

We walk and walk and our goal was to find the local hop on hop off bus called Turistik.  We finally find it and buy two tickets for it for tomorrow morning.  A good thing he took us outside and walked us to the pick up spot because there are no markings at this stop for the bus.  The bus was $23,000 Chilean Pesos ($27 US) for the tour.

We need to get something to eat and we found a lovely Italian restaurant with outdoor seating and we enjoyed a fabulous meal with a bottle of local wine and the bill came to $50,000 - quite reasonable.  Actually I find the prices here to be very reasonable.  

After dinner we decide to head to the W Hotel that is nearby as our friends had recommended the rooftop bar and they did not disappoint.  Stunning views, great drinks and it the end of a great day.

Oh and Santiago has Uber and again is much more reasonable than a taxi, where they seem to want to scam the tourists.  At least with Uber we know how much it is and it is reliable.