Adjusting in Chile didn’t come without its challenges. In fact, nearly everything was hard. But after more than two years, by far the hardest thing about living in Chile is leaving.
I trekked 71 kilometers (45 miles) and albeit far, I only saw a small part of the huge region that spans two countries. As in nearly all of my South American ventures, Nora was by my side. For 5 days, we hiked the popular W-shaped trail in Torres del Paine in what felt like a beautiful fairy tale ending to this chapter of my life.
I teach English, speak Spanish at home and am learning French. In other words, my brain could combust at any moment.
The fireworks show in Valparaíso is simply unmatched and it was a spectacular way to ring in what should be an incredible year for me. Feliz 2014!
Before I moved abroad, guidebooks, blogs, friends and travelers raved about all the incredible people I would meet. No one warned me about how many times I would have to say goodbye.
The Color Run really is the happiest 5K on the planet! It was awesome to be surrounded by my whole Chile “family” as my friends and roommates joined me for this explosion of color and fun.
A top reason I’m going to hate leaving Chile someday: Amazing wine. Cheap, amazing wine. You can get a delicious bottle of Chile’s rich specialty Carmeneré for US$6 to$8, but even $4 will get you something decent. At those prices it’s hard not to become a wine connoisseur in this country, not to mention Chile is home to some of the best wines in the world.
