So classes have finally started! I have had a full week so far but the way my classes worked out I only have them Tuesday-Thursday… basically a traveler’s most optimal schedule. With those four classes I have also decided to take a salsa and meringue class as well as a semester long Spanish grammar course offered to extranjeros, so I definitely will still have a full schedule.
Last Monday a bunch of my friends and I decided to use our free day to conquer the ski mountain
El Colorado, located in the Andes about an hours drive away from the city. That hours drive however was insane! The only method to scale the mountain was a narrow, partially paved/unpaved road that had 180-degree switchbacks about every 600 ft. Our van a few times had to reverse in order to make the turn. It was very exciting, although my carsick friend Steph next to me didn’t quite agree. On our decent we came around a turn and had to stop abruptly as there were a handful of wandering cows blocking the road. I have to admit the journey to and from El Colorado was almost as exhilarating as the skiing itself.
Once on the mountain we were above the tree line, making the views of the surrounding mountains breathtaking. As we were just outside Santiago, we could see the region of the Santiago valley and the surrounding metropolitan area. Unfortunately, the smog over Santiago was so thick we were unable to see the city at all. I knew the smog here was bad, and when living in the city anything in the distance is very hazy, but looking at it from this perspective definitely made me realize just how bad it is. So literally the views were breath-taking, haha.
On Thursday there was an extranjero asado (bbq) put together by our school. As is the Chilean fashion there were plenty of choripanes or sweet sausage in fresh baked rolls. They were delicious, and of course each time I took one I were asked if I wanted mayonnaise as well. Each time I politely declined. Part of this asado was that everyone had their flag painted on their faces. Standing in a long line to wait my turn I felt like a little kid again at the Fall Fair Spooktacular, it was actually very fun! Walking around we were clearly a diverse group.
Today was very warm, almost 65! Making me extra excited for the change of season. My friends and I are planning hiking and camping trips for the warmer months so I am already looking forward to that as well!
Good to talk to everyone in NH and glad that the Alice In Wonderland party was a success, and Kait hope your ankle gets better fast!
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