tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4270862038801040912010-04-07T17:52:47.499-04:00A Chunk of Chile with a Dash of South AmericaLiving and travelling in South America from our base in Chile since 1997. I have personally experienced the extremes here, living in a shed without a bathroom in a poor dangerous part of town to the other extreme of having an elegant dinner with the President at the palace. This blog is about things that I have done or that have caught my attention here as well as travel information that may be useful.Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07951190134635869321noreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-8059341092695700732010-04-07T17:36:00.005-04:002010-04-07T17:52:47.625-04:00My Earthquake ExperienceSetting: Chile - Saturday, 27th of February - 3.34am<br /><br />Either you we soundly sleeping or you were in the final stages of some hedonistic form of indulgence.<br /><br />Scene: Santiago, Chile – Our apartment on the 22nd floor.<br /><br />Even though I had only gone to bed about an hour and a half earlier, for some reason I woke up a minute or so before the shaking started. It’s a habit of mine to wake up a minute or two before tremors, aftershocks and now it seems major earthquakes. It’s most likely to be pure coincidence since I tend to wake up at least 2 or 3 times per night anyway.<br />So there I was, unaware or the time, trying to snuggle deeper into my pillow when the bed started moving slightly.<br />Ok, our bed moves a lot anyway so the wife must be rolling over. No, she was totally out to it.<br />My first thought was, Ok, just another tremor.<br />Then the bed started moving a bit more. My wife awakens and sleeply asks if it is a tremor (¿Está temblando?).<br />Then we can hear the rattling of the perfumes as they knock each other in the bathroom. Ok, this is just a strong tremor we thought, no reason to get out of bed since we are used to them.<br />The thing is, things began shaking a lot more.<br />OK, this is getting a bit more serious, it’s quite strong now. Let’s get up, you see if the kids are okay and I’ll open the front door to stop it from jamming.<br />On the way to the door the shaking increased considerably. In my mind it was around 6.5 (I have experienced many tremors/earthquakes so you get used to figuring out).<br />I got to the door, unlocked it, left it open slightly, turned around, and then the full force of the earthquake came into play.<br />I couldn’t more forward and had to hold onto the wall to stay up. I looked out the large ceiling to floor windows in our living room and could see just how much our building was swaying. We are lucky to have an uninhibited view of most of the city though on this occasion that view was scary. I could see sectors of the city blacking out one by one and explosions of light flashing the night sky here and there. When the earthquake reached its highest point and the lights in our own building went out, I thought “This is it! We’re not coming out of this alive.” I have not been so scared in my entire life. The shaking, the rattling and the creaking of the building heightened the sensation of eminent death. That very moment has scarred me emotionally. Even now when I enter our apartment at night, the first thing I see is that same view I had the night of the earthquake and it’s not the most pleasant memory.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Immediately after the earthquake</span><br /><br />The violent shaking gradually slowed down and then eventually stopped. I could finally walk to our children’s room to see if they were ok. My wife had been standing over them the entire time, while supporting herself against the wall, making sure nothing fell on them. Interestingly they were still sound asleep! We didn’t wake them up straight away since we had to get dressed, get together clothes and things for the kids so as to leave the building as soon as possible. After a big earthquake like the one we had just experienced there is a large probability of a strong aftershock soon after so we didn’t want to be in the apartment for it.<br /><br />We didn’t have a lantern or flashlight so I turned on my laptop and used the light of the screen to help us see a little better. Just in case, candles are not a good idea to use after an earthquake since its naked flame is a risk if there are broken gas pipes nearby. Once we had our bag of essentials ready, we woke up the kids, dressed them and set off down 22 flights of stairs. I carried our eldest son, my wife the youngest and fortunately one of the neighbours on the same floor as us had waited outside our open door so she took the bag for us.<br /><br />Entering the stairway we were greeted by water running done the walls and down the steps. We found out later that a pipe that feeds the swimming pool on the roof had broken. There were also cracks running down the middle of the ceiling above the stairs (which is only where the plaster had fallen from the joins, no serious structural damage), as well as paint chips and fallen plaster everywhere. Dust that smelt like old concrete also hung heavily in the air, strange since it’s a new building. Before we knew it we had scrambled down the stairs and arrived at the first floor in no time. Many other people had already arrived, some in pajamas, some half dressed and one wrapped in a blanket. Everyone was wondering, how strong the quake was on the Richter scale, where the epicenter was, most likely Santiago we thought due to the strength of the shaking (though in reality not true). The first crackling announcements that could be picked up from an old battery-operated radio in reception mentioned it was a 8.5 earthquake. Later we would learn it was 8.8. We, as well as the rest of the country, tried to contact family and other loved ones to let them know we were safe and to see how they were. Unfortunately all the lines were saturated which added to everyone’s desperation. After what seemed like an eternity we eventually got in touch with my wife’s parents who came and picked us up to take us back to their single-floor house.<br />We eventually got to bed (or more like got to ‘mattress on the floor’) as the first light of day started appearing to reveal the real damage to the country.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Damage</span><br /><br />The strangest thing about this earthquake after hearing and seeing so many different stories and images was that absolutely nothing in our house was broken. Not only that, the only things that fell from anywhere were some papers that were near the TV in our bedroom had fallen onto the ground. There was even an empty bottle of beer sitting near the edge on the kitchen bench that maintained upright. I remember the shaking and it was hard to stay up on my feet, so why didn’t it fall?<br />We heard that people in apartments above us and below us had lost a lot of things and had a large mess to clean up afterwards. Strange!!! We must have angels protecting us.<br />In our language institute it was the same situation, only a small ceramic souvenir from Colombia had fallen from a bookshelf. Again nothing else had happened.<br /><br />After all of the news on television and in newspapers about the numerous buildings with crumbled walls, collapsed foundations or just leaning to one side unnaturally (one actually fell over), my wife and I walked the seven levels of underground parking to check our building’s foundations, pillars, walls and ceiling to see whether there was any structural damage. Fortunately there was none whatsoever.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Afterthoughts (not to be confused with aftershocks)</span><br /><br />As a consequence of the earthquake two of our neighbours are no longer living on our floor. I imagine the same thing has happened in many other apartment buildings. I don’t blame them. It was difficult for us to return to our apartment on the 22nd floor and we ourselves had even thought of leaving it to live in a ‘normal’ house.<br /><br />We discovered that some people in our apartment building couldn’t open their doors due to the double locks being stuck which is why you should open the door then seek protection.<br />I have also learnt that the age-old lesson about going under a table or doorway is actually one of the worst places to be. Ok, it does stop things from falling on you…. unless it’s the ceiling or floors above you. There is now talk of the ‘Triangles of Life’ where you should lay next to a bed or other chunk piece of furniture that is not easily crushed. That way if the roof or walls do fall on you, a small space in the shape of a triangle is formed that ‘protects’ you. Its efficiency is still disputed.<br /><br />Why have there been so many earthquakes this year? Haiti was first (7.0), then Chile (8.8), then there was one on the border of Mexico and the States the other day (7.2) and now one yesterday in Sumantra (7.7). Mother Earth seems to be mad!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quick fact</span><br /><br />The recent earthquake in Chile has been the 5th strongest (on the Richter scale) in the last 100 years and the 7th strongest in recorded history.<br /><br />So if you were in Chile during the earthquake, how did you experience it?<br /><br />If you have already blogged about it, feel free to leave a link to it below.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-805934109269570073?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-2287956806770965012010-03-02T13:38:00.003-03:002010-03-02T13:56:28.928-03:00Chile Earthquake HelpSorry, most of this is in Spanish but is important to help all those that have suffered and continue suffering due to the 8.8 Richter Scale Earthquake that hit Chile early Saturday morning:<br /><br />Donations<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />Cuentas Corrientes habilitadas:<br /><br />En Chile:<br />Banco Estado<br />Cuenta corriente Nº 362883<br />Cruz Roja Chilena<br />Rut: 70.512.100-1<br />e-mail: finanzas@cruzroja.cl<br />Extranjero:<br />Citibank<br />Cuenta corriente Nº 9941973331<br />Código ABA:021000089<br />Dirección: 153 east 53 Rd. Street 4th floor. New York, Ny 10022<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />Rol de Caritas Chile<br />Caritas Chile pone su cuenta corriente a disposición de la ciudadanía para recibir aportes que permitan paliar el dolor de las víctimas del terremoto sufrido en la madrugada del 27 de febrero de 2010.<br />Titular : Caritas Chile<br />Banco Santander<br />Cuenta Nº 0-082-18-00080-1<br />R.U.T. de CARITAS CHILE es 70.020.800-1<br />Email: culloa@caritaschile.org<br />Más Info: http://www.caritaschile.org<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />U.S.A: Donaciones por mensaje de texto. Por favor difundir! Enviar un SMS con texto “CHILE” al 20222 o al 25383 para donar US 10 a Habitat for Humanity o a World Vision.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UN TECHO PARA CHILE<br />1) Donaciones por transferencia electrónica:<br />Cuenta 399409-0 del Banco Santander a nombre de<br />Fundación Un Techo para Chile, Rut: 65.533.130-1<br />(2) Donaciones por teléfono:<br />Llamando al 800 361 000<br />(3) Donaciones en la cuenta 2010 del Banco Santander<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br /><br />►► DONACIONES Y VOLUNTARIADO<br />GREENPEACE A JUAN FERNANDEZ<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />Ayuda para Isla Juan Fernández a través de GREENPEACE. Llevarlas a Elías de la Cruz 18, Ñuñoa después de las 17 hrs. Barco parte el miércoles. Comida no perecible y ropa.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UN TECHO PARA CHILE<br />Un TECHO PARA CHILE Voluntarios RM ante la emergencia debemos actuar: Este lunes 1 de marzo nos reunimos a las 7:30 am en el gimnasio del Colegio San Ignacio Alonso Ovalle, entrada Vidaurren.<br />Un Techo para Chile de Santiago a regiones: Voluntarios dispuestos a prestar ayuda civil o a partir en cualquier momento a la 7 y 8va region… necesitamos NOMBRE, MAIL, TELEFONO DE CASA (importante!!!) Y CEL… Mandar datos a iabbott@untechoparachile.cl, daniela.navarro@untechoparachile.org, jose.navarro@untechoparachile.org<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />CRUZ ROJA<br />Donaciones de alimentos, ropa y frazadas<br />Pueden ir a dejar donaciones a Calle Seminario 973, Cruz Roja Chilena. Lo que más se necesita son agua, pañales y comida.<br />PRONTO<br />La cruz roja está próximamente estará necesitando VOLUNTARIOS, para ir a distintas zonas del país. Para los menores de 26 años enviar un correo a juventud@cruzroja.cl Para los mayores de 26 a desarrollo@cruzroja.cl -Indicar nombre, teléfono de contacto, mail, ocupación y SECTOR DONDE PUEDEN AYUDAR (en RM o en otro sector de Chile).<br />SOLO ENVIAR INFORMACIÓN NO ESTÁN PIDIENDO A LOS VOLUNTARIOS PARA EL DÍA LUNES<br />http://twitter.com/CruzRojainforma<br />http://www.cruzroja.cl/<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />HOGAR DE CRISTO<br />HOGAR DE CRISTO Y ONEMI INICIAN RECOLECCIÓN DE AYUDAS: Desde mañana lunes 1º a las 12:00 hrs., se reciben frazadas, pañales, leche en polvo y alimentos no perecibles para ayudar a las víctimas del terremoto. Puntos de recolección: todas las sedes del Hogar de Cristo a lo largo del país, y en Santiago el Colegio San Ignacio El Bosque (Pocuro 2801, Providencia) y el Hogar de Cristo ubicado en Gral. Velásquez.<br />http://www.jesuitas.cl/paginas/noticias/noticias.php<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />VOLUNTARIOS AL JUMBO<br />Mañaña Lunes 1 de Marzo a las 11 am se necesitan voluntarios en el JUMBO Alto Las Condes donde saldran buses para la central de distribucion en Pudahuel, la idea es ayudar a ordenar todos los alimentos para que puedan salir ese mismo dia a Concepcion y Maule! Cualquier cosa llamar al 9-6793860. Si quieren ir directo la Direccion de la Central de Distribucion de Jumbo en Pudahuel es Av. Nueva Uno 17.580 en el Sector Noviciado. Cualquier duda llamar a Piero Giaretti al 098270968.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UC<br />PUC está recolectando víveres y diferentes especias en campus San joaquín y Lo Contador, desde hoy a las 20:00hrs. Ayudemos a Chile!<br />La Federación de Estudiantes de la PUC recibirá alimentos no perecibles, productos de higiene y pañales, ropa, y agua potable envasada en sus campus de San Joaquín y Lo Contador desde el 1 de Marzo a las 9 am. También la Cruz Roja recibe alimentos no perecibles, agua, pañales y ropa en su bodega en Seminario 973, Ñuñoa.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UCHILE<br />La sede FECh ubicada en Periodista José Carrasco Tapia N°9 (Vicuña Mackenna, pasos de Plaza Italia) está recepcionando ayudas para los damnificados por el terremoto. La lista de elementos que estamos recibiendo es: Alimentos, Vestuario personal, Calzado de invierno, Artículos de aseo, Ropa de Cama: Colchones.<br />http://webfech.blogspot.com/<br />inscripciones http://spreadsheets.google.com/embeddedform?formkey=dENlYmhvVlkyLUxrTFVuemoteHFRNFE6MA<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UDD<br />Colecta de ropa, frazadas, calzado y comida no perecibles en la UNIVERSIDAD DEL DESARROLLO de San Carlos de Apoquindo ubicado en Avenida La Plaza 680, Las Condes., desde las 10 am hasta las 8 pm, hasta el 5 de marzo. Traten de juntar lo mas posible y llevarlo. Todo sirve. Toda ayuda voluntaria se acepta.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />UDP<br />Centros de Recolección UNIVERSIDAD DIEGO PORTALES<br />- A partir de las 9.00 de mañana Lunes 1 de marzo.<br />Manuel Rodríguez 343, Santiago Centro<br />La lista de las cosas que se puede llevar son:<br />Alimentos: Arroz, Tallarines, Aceite, Café, Azúcar, Leche en Polvo, Té, Legumbres<br />Higiene: Pañales, Toallas Higiénicas, Jabón, Cepillo y Pasta de Dientes.<br />Ropa: Ropa Interior para todas las edades (nueva), Ropa de Abrigo, Ropa de todas las edades en buen estado.<br />URGENTE! Agua potable envasada<br />Otros Frazadas y Saco de dormir.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />VOLUNTARIADO MINISTERIO DE SALUD<br />INSCRIBETE ACA PARA SER VOLUNTARIO DEL MINISTERIO DE SALUD (SOLO PROFESIONALES Y TECNICOS DE SALUD)<br />INGRESA TUS DATOS PARA SER CONTACTADO CUANDO APENAS ESTEN DISPONIBLES LAS CONDICIONES PARA VIAJAR A LAS ZONAS AFECTADAS SERAS CONTACTADO.<br />http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dE0xY096ZnhUaGtTM3RFTG5VMDR1b0E6MA<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />SAGRADOS CORAZONES DE ALAMEDA<br />Lugares de recepción de ayuda estarán abiertos a partir de este lunes 1 de marzo a las 12:00 horas. - Gimnasio Colegio Sagrados Corazones de Alameda, Alameda Bernardo O'Higgins 2062, Santiago. Sólo se recibirán los siguientes alimentos no perecibles: arroz, leche en polvo,fideos y aceite. No se recibirá vestuario, medicamentos y alimentos perecibles.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />COLEGIO SEMINARIO PONTIFICIO<br />desde lunes 1, en el colegio seminario pontificio menor ubicado en padre errazuriz 7001, las condes, se recibira comida no perecible en favor de la víctimas del terremoto. Por favor publica este aviso en el muro para darlo a conocer a todos! Por tu colaboración muchas gracias!<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />COLEGIO ISABEL LA CATOLICA<br />A partir de mañana en el Colegio Isabel la Católica (Ricardo Lyon Nº 2855) se recibe arroz, leche en polvo,fideos y aceite, desde las 9:00 am<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />LUGARES DONDE SE RECIBE AYUDA<br />http://maps.google.cl/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=es&t=h&msa=0&msid=103299390633192373139.000480b13b34617d3d1dc&ll=-37.055177,-70.97168&spn=19.218665,39.506836&z=5<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />AYUDA DE ARRIBA CHILE!!!<br />Partimos a Curicó a ayudar a los damnificados con alimentos, agua, construcción, limpieza de escombros y otros, por favor unirse quienes realmente van a ir para poder organizar bien al grupo<br />http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=355053078071&index=1<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br /><br />►► DONACIÓN DE SANGRE<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />El lunes a partir de las 9 y hasta las 17 hrs. estarán habilitados el Ex Hospital Militar ( Av. Vitacura a dos cuadras del metro Tobalaba)y la Posta Central (Portugal #125, metro católica) para la recolección de sangre.<br />Si tienes dudas sobre poder donar sangre puedes revisar la siguiente página: http://www.bsburgos.org/donacion_de_sangre.htm<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />El ministerio de Salud (Minsal) ha realizado un llamado a las personas que puedan donar sangre, para hacer frente a la gran cantidad de personas heridas.<br />-Valparaíso: Centro de Sangre de Valparaíso<br />-San Fernando: Banco de Sangre Hospital de San Fernando, en Negrete 1401<br />-Talca: Centro de Diagnóstico Terapéutico, ubicado al Costado del hospital Regional de Talca<br />-Puerto Montt: Escuela Nº 6 de Puerto Montt<br />-Región Metropolitana, Centro de Sangre Metropolitano, Avda. Vitacura (Ex Hospital Militar) y en la Posta Central<br />Para quienes quieran donar sangre estos puntos atenderán de 09:00 a 17:00 Hrs. En otras ciudades del país se puede donar el los bancos de sangre de los hospitales.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />►► OTROS<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />SMS GRATIS<br />Sin duda la falta de comunicación con los seres queridos es uno de los problemas principales. Por medio de http://evaphone.com/ se pueden hacer dos llamadas vía IP gratis para todo Chile. Otro dato es http://www.smsflick.com/ en donde se pueden mandar mensajes a celulares de manera gratuita.<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />ABRIR REDES WIFI<br />la conectividad en estos momentos es indispensable, ABRAN sus redes hasta que todo vuelva a la normalidad<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />BUSCADOR DE PERSONAS GOOGLE<br />ingresa si sabes algo de alguien, o si buscas a alguien<br />IDEAL seria que alguien de los sectores afectados se acerque a los albergues, se hagan listas de la gente e ingresarlas al sitio<br />http://chilepersonfinder.appspot.com/<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />CORTES DE CARRETERAS<br />http://maps.google.cl/maps/ms?hl=es&gl=cl&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=101583086025908752159.000480adeb622070a2cd4<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />SITIOS DE INTERES<br />▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬<br />http://chilepersonfinder.appspot.com/<br />http://w2.chileayuda.com/<br />http://www.onemi.cl/<br />http://www.cruzroja.cl/<br />http://www.untechoparachile.cl/<br />http://www.minsal.cl/<br />http://www.defensa.cl<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-228795680677096501?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-62348938289971208222010-01-21T13:53:00.004-03:002010-01-21T14:12:33.414-03:00Ritz Ball - Santiago 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/blog/uploaded_images/Ritz_Ball_2010-754918.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/blog/uploaded_images/Ritz_Ball_2010-754916.jpg" alt="Ritz Ball Flyer 2010 Santiago Chile" border="0" /></a><br /><br />There is a black tie charity ball coming up at the end of the month and having been to many other ones organised by the Australian Embassy, they are a load of fun. Seriously you have a ball! (...and it's not just because I won the return flight to Australia two years running! - Yes, certain diplomats still groan about that - you know who you are!)<br /><br />Unfortunately I won't be able to go this year since I will be out of Santiago (Clue - Pisco & UFOs) but I have included the details about it below:<br /><br />Saturday 30 January 2010<br />Time: 8:00pm<br />Place: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel (Avda Apoquindo)<br /><br />Organised by the Australian Embassy<br /><br />Tickets: $40,000 (Chilean Pesos)<br />All-inclusive<br />Pre-dinner cocktails,<br />Hors d'oeuvres, 3-course meal<br /><br />Beer, wine & champagne<br />Cash bar available for other drinks<br /><br />Live music and DJ<br /><br />Dress: Black Tie<br /><br /><b>All proceeds go to charity.</b><br />Grand Raffle tickets sold on the night.<br /><br />Tickets are limited, no door sales.<br />Ticket and table reservations available from:<br /><br />Julie Shiels<br />(Australian Embassy)<br /><br />Remember... It's for a worthy cause!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-6234893828997120822?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-85674934564092761082010-01-20T09:47:00.004-03:002010-01-20T10:06:21.938-03:00Volcanic Traffic Light<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcano_Traffic_Light.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 334px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcano_Traffic_Light.jpg" alt="The traffic light for volcanoes" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Have you ever heard of a traffic light for volcanoes?<br />Well you can find one in Pucon, Chile.<br /><br />Downtown in front of the Municipal building (and next to the fire station) you will find a traffic light that lets you know in what state the local volcano, called Volcán Villarrica, is in. Even though the town is wedged between the imposing volcano and the lake, you still may need to check out this traffic light above to confirm that the red stuff spurting from the volcano top is actually lava and not just raspberry sludge.<br /><br />And to help you figure out what is happening, they have the following sign to let you know what each colour means.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcano_Traffic_Light_Sign.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 451px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcano_Traffic_Light_Sign.jpg" alt="Sign explaining what the Volcano Traffic Light means" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Below is an English translation of the sign above:<br /><br /><b>Volcanic Risk Alert System</b><br />Located in the Municipality Building front Entrance<br /><br /><b>Green Indicates:</b><br />Presence of fumaroles and increase of them<br />Underground noise and continuous local seismic activity<br />Glacier cracks<br />Sulphurous smell<br /><br /><b>Amber Indicates:</b><br />Medium to strong earthquakes<br />Reddish glows and moderate blasts<br />Temperature increase in thermal pools<br />Small lava flows<br /><br /><b>Red Indicates:</b><br />RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!!!!!! (just kidding)<br />Strong and continuous seismic activity<br />Tremor banded seismic swarms<br />Blasts and Explosions<br />Pyroclastic flow<br />Lahar generation<br /><br /><b>If you live in:</b><br />Los Arrayanes – Libertad – Bomberos de Chile – El Claro - Jardines del Claro – Sector Aeropuerto – Villa entre Rios<br /><b>You must go to:</b> Los Calabozos Alto<br />And just a random Spanish lesson for your curiosity… Calabozos means Dungeons in Spanish. So your choice is between being the next Pompeian-like attraction curled up on the side of the street or go to a dungeon.<br /><br /><b>If you live in:</b><br />Tres Esquinas – Pucon Centro – Cordillera Alto y Bajo – Prudencia Mora – Aduana – Esfuerzo – Maitahue – Villa Lafquen – Las Vertientes – Las Castaños – Camino Volcan – Antumalal – La Turbina – Las Araucarios – Obispo Valdés – El Bosque – Los Robles – Estadio ...<br />Basically you are screwed because the lava will get you and turn you into a crispy critter before you can get anywhere safe (just kidding if you hadn’t noticed)<br /><b>You must go to:</b> La Península<br /><br />Now if the volcano were exploding with hot rocks the size of cars crashing about you, do you think you would ready need to go to the Municipal building to see if the light were red and then calmly read where you have to go?<br /><br />All kidding aside, it shows that Volcan Villarrica can be a real threat. Just look at the wisps of smoke coming out of it every day showing how active it really is.<br /><br />Oh, and if you are interested, there are loads of guided tours that take you up to the crater at a hideous hour of the morning (leave at 5 or 6am). My wife and I did the trek as a part of our honeymoon trip many years ago.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcan_Villarica_Top.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 327px; height: 186px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Volcan_Villarica_Top.jpg" alt="At the top of the Villarrica Volcano" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-8567493456409276108?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-51275144059748580322010-01-19T19:43:00.001-03:002010-01-19T19:46:16.681-03:00Chilean Presidential Election Street CelebrationsSebastián Piñera, the guy that owns most of Chile, was elected as the country's next president (2010-2014) after the results of the second decisive round of the election came through on Sunday.<br /><br />The Left has finally succumbed to the Right after holding power over the last 20 years so of course there was a lot of celebrating in the street. The following video was taken from the middle of the main street of <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Pucon.htm">Pucón</a> (South of Chile).<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Em_pGTKt09Q&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Em_pGTKt09Q&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br />Notice the beeping of horns (typical of any Chilean celebration) and people hanging out of car windows while the carabineros (police) look out without doing anything (probably want to avoid getting lynched by the euphoric crowd).<br /><br />What do you think about the result of this election?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-5127514405974858032?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-66850220414589593542010-01-17T17:23:00.002-03:002010-01-17T17:42:38.828-03:00Pucon Flowers & Elections<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Flower_Stand.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 295px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Pucon/Flower_Stand.jpg" alt="Flower Stands in Pucon, Chile" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Just some flowers to brighten your day!<br /><br />This is a flower stand on a street in called Caupolicán near the wharf in Pucon. Yes, I am still in Pucon having been a week here though I will be heading back to Santiago tomorrow.<br /><br />Today is an important day for Chile since the country’s president will be decided in this all important second round. Why a second round (like a boxing match)? Well, the first round held in December was between all presidential hopefuls. If no-one gets a 50% majority then voting goes to a second round a month later between the top two candidates of the first round. This time it is between Eduardo Frei and Sebastian Piñera. It’s hard to say who will win today, it’s going to be very close.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-6685022041458959354?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-10132308044883105742010-01-13T19:17:00.002-03:002010-01-13T19:22:24.242-03:00Pichilemu Hotel and SquareI'm currently in Pucon so have some more photos and stuff coming up!<br /><br />Here are a couple of pages I just uploaded about our weekend in Pichilemu.<br />Just very quickly... it's a cool place...<br /><br />This is where we stayed which we recommend: <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Pichilemu/Hotel_Chile_Espana.htm">Hotel Chile España</a><br />And this is a plaza nearby (mainly photos this page): <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Pichilemu/Plaza_Arturo_Prat.htm">Plaza Arturo Prat</a><br /><br />More coming soon, including about the international surfing competition!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-1013230804488310574?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-66182282861805985952010-01-07T14:13:00.004-03:002010-01-07T15:31:49.907-03:00Pichilemu International Surf ChampionshipFor all you surfers and beach lovers out there…<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Pichilemu.htm">Pichilemu</a> International Surf Championship 2010 (Campeonato Internacional de Surf Pichilemu 2010) will be held over the next days, specifically the 8th and 9th of January with the closing ceremony on Sunday 10th when the $3.5 million pesos in prizes will be given out. The championship open to both men and women will be at the Infiernillo, Punta de Lobos and La Puntilla sectors of <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Pichilemu.htm">Pichilemu</a>.<br /><br />During the championship there will be various other activities happening at the same time including a fashion show with well-known national models and a cultural fair with around 70 stands including local handicraft and gastronomy.<br /><br />We'll be there this weekend so will post some photos / videos later on.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-6618228286180598595?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-39873954552542558552010-01-06T19:43:00.002-03:002010-01-06T19:46:09.657-03:00La Esmeralda leaving ValparaisoThe Esmeralda, also known as La Dama Blanca (The White Lady) is the second tallest (48.5m – 159ft) and longest (113m – 371ft) sailing ship in the world. Belonging to the Chilean Navy it is used as the training ship for their cadets (only 50 or so are in training at any one time) and holds up to 333 sailors in total.<br /><br />On the 3rd of January 2010, the Esmeralda set sail on a journey that will take her over 20,433 nautical miles visiting ports in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Mexico, United States and Panama. The ship won’t return to Valparaiso until the 8th of August 2010, just in time for the Chile’s bicentennial celebrations.<br /><br />Below is a video of the Esmeralda leaving port that day:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vLznmbyAou8&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vLznmbyAou8&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><b>A little history about the Esmeralda</b><br /><br />Building of the ship started in Spain in 1946 though was halted many times, only being completed in 1953. In 1951 ownership of the partially completed ship was transferred to Chile as a part of Spain’s debt payment to the country.<br /><br />During the Pinochet regime the boat was “supposedly” used as a floating jail and torture chamber for political prisoners. The British priest Miguel Woodward was one of those killed aboard in September 1973.<br />(I bet you won’t find anything about that on the Esmeralda’s official site!)<br /><br />For information about the Esmeralda and where it is at the moment (in Spanish), check out their official website: <a target="blank" href="http://www.esmeralda.cl">www.esmeralda.cl</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-3987395455254255855?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-3713253957113023682010-01-05T17:43:00.004-03:002010-01-05T17:53:17.336-03:00Videos of New Year at Valparaiso ChileThese videos are part of the fireworks display you will see if you go to celebrate New Year's in Valparaiso, Chile. I videoed the entire show which lasted just over 20 minutes. Have in mind that the video doesn't do the display justice and that I only shot three of the seventeen launch sites.<br />So, without further ado... here is the complete fireworks display divided into two parts:<br /><br />Part One:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bnnxydfezQI&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bnnxydfezQI&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Part Two with the grand finale:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lqo6OWKeqXs&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lqo6OWKeqXs&hl=es_ES&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />P.S. If you sit through the entire two videos, I think you need to get out of the house a little more. :) <br /><br />Hope the year has started off well for you!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-371325395711302368?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-33769482010956193292010-01-04T16:49:00.003-03:002010-01-04T16:58:48.971-03:00Valparaiso New Year Fireworks Celebration<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Valparaiso/Fuegos_Artificiales.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; width: 400px; height: 179px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Valparaiso/Fuegos_Artificiales.jpg" alt="Fuegos Artificiales de Valparaiso" border="0" /></a><br />If you love fireworks then you won’t want to miss the New Year celebration in Valparaiso. At midnight just before the fireworks display kicks off, the first few city blocks from the waterfront get their power cut (sorry for those on an artificial respirator) so that those on the hills can better appreciate the spectacle.<br /><br />Even though everyone calls it the Valparaiso Fireworks, it is in fact along a display running along a great part of the coast from Valparaiso, past Viña del Mar and all the way to Concón. There are 17 different launching points, most of them from boats in the harbour, and this year the almost US$200,000 spent on the 37 tonnes of fireworks created around 30,000 explosions (I had to count pretty quickly) lasted around 20 minutes. Since 2010 is Chile’s Bicentennial year, the fireworks were mostly of the national colours – red, white and blue – to celebrate Chile’s 200-year anniversary. Interestingly the famous ‘cascade’ of Valparaiso was not done this year… looks like I’ll have to go back to see it next time.<br /><br />Of course people don’t just come to see some pretty lights in the sky. It’s the partying in the street that makes Valparaiso so much fun. A stage is set up at Plaza Sotomayor, the main square near the wharf, with live bands that last until 8 in the morning. At midnight, the streets are choked with confetti, bottles of champagne spray over everyone (remember to add pineapple ice-cream) and people hug each their family, friends, and whoever else happens to be next to them (depending on the alcohol already consumed some people hug street lights, plants and even try to hug their own shadow).<br /><br /><b>When to go?</b><br />Due to the large number of visitors, about a million, most of the streets of Valparaiso are closed off to traffic around 5pm. Before then, an eternal line of cars jam the roads where families, wedged in between bags, coolers and their dog, sweat for hours in the intense summer heat.<br />We left Santiago at 8.30 in the morning and found the way relatively easy going, without any holdups, taking only an hour and a half by car. We know of someone that left Santiago at 4.30pm and it took them over 4 hours to get to the coast, again by car. If you go to Valparaiso any later than that, you may just end up celebrating the New Year from inside of a non-moving vehicle.<br />If you plan to go by bus, make sure you get your tickets beforehand as you won’t be able to find any on that same day. Also, you need to be prepared to pay triple the normal price for buses.<br /><br /><b>Where to stay?</b><br />Unless you like sleeping in the street, as a number of young people do, it pays to get your accommodation organised well in advance. Hotels, hostels and apartments are usually booked out long before the day comes around. Such is the scarcity and expense at the time of year that many people even drive back to Santiago after the display is over.<br />This year we were fortunate to rent an apartment for the long weekend though it did cost an arm and a leg and few clumps of hair as well. You may look at having to pay more than a month’s worth of rent just to stay somewhere a couple of nights.<br /><br />Well, after over 12 years in Chile at least I can finally say I saw the Valparaiso fireworks!<br />(Yes, it was my first time!)<br /><br />Happy New Year!!!<br /><br />How did you spend your New Year in South America?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Valparaiso/Fireworks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; width: 400px; height: 211px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Valparaiso/Fireworks.jpg" alt="Valparaiso New Year Fireworks" border="0" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-3376948201095619329?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-35564668859050964032009-12-30T19:15:00.003-03:002009-12-30T19:19:13.716-03:00New Year 2010We hope that everyone has a great 2010 whether it be in South America or any other part of the world!!!<br />Indulge and Enjoy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-3556466885905096403?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-39116687318121610592009-11-17T10:20:00.005-03:002009-11-17T10:31:10.893-03:00Thanksgiving in SantiagoI am not from the States though I thought some of you may be interested in the following:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thanksgiving Dinner</span><br /><br />Thursday November 26 - 7:30 p.m.<br /><br />Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner (from the USA) – turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy – even pumpkin pie!<br /><br />The cost is $3.000 for adults and $1.000 for children, plus a contribution of one item (side dish or appetizer).<br /><br />All are welcome, but there is limited seating, so get your place reserved soon!<br /><br />Organised by the Santiago Community Church<br />Holanda 151<br />Providencia<br />Santiago<br />Chile<br /><br />Does anyone know of any other Thanksgiving events happening in South America?<br /><br />What are your plans for Thanksgiving?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-3911668731812161059?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-9633579040260226892009-11-15T22:05:00.002-03:002009-11-15T22:23:44.427-03:00Christmas Bazaars in Santiago 2009<p>There are a number of Bazaars organised by the International <a href="http://www.southamerica.me/pg/groups/11/expats-in-chile/">Expat community</a> coming up in Santiago should you want to do some early Christmas shopping.</p><p><b>BIG Christmas Bazaar</b></p><p>Tuesday 17th of November from 11 am to 3 pm</p><p>Prince of Wales Country Club<br />Las Arañas 1901, La Reina</p><p>Handicrafts, Jewellery, Artists, Baked Goods, Express Massage</p><p>ENTRANCE: $1000<br />All funds donated to Charity</p><p><br /></p><p>And then there is my favourite Bazaar which is organised by the 'Diplomatic Ladies'...<br /></p><p>The <span style="font-weight: bold;">International Bazaar</span> organized every year by the ADD (Asociación de Damas Diplomáticas) will be on Saturday 28th of November this year. It will be held in the Parque Ines de Suarez, located between Avenida Bilbao and Calle Vasconia in Providencia from 10am to 8pm.</p><p>This year there are more than 25 countries participating with crafts, international cuisine and local beverages. In addition, several countries have prepared unique cultural shows.<br /></p><p>Please come and join us - along with your friends and families! It will be great fun and your contribution will help alleviate the needs of several disadvantaged people.</p><p>Entrance $1500 pesos per person.<br />Children under 12 free of charge.</p><p>My favourite thing about the Damas Diplomáticas fair are the food stands. There is an amazing variety of food from many different countries. Also the products that are on offer have usually been imported by the embassies or expats especially for the occasion.</p><p>Hope you enjoy them!<br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-963357904026022689?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-18692885552466134932009-09-14T18:16:00.002-04:002009-09-14T18:19:49.167-04:00Winter Carnival - Punta Arenas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Punta_Arenas_Winter_Carnival/Moulin_Rouge.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 228px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Punta_Arenas_Winter_Carnival/Moulin_Rouge.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If for ever reason you plan to be in <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas.htm">Punta Arenas</a> in the middle of winter, try and time it for the same time as the Punta Arenas Winter Carnival. This is an annual event held every August filled with costumes parades, the big decorative floats, lots of dancing and music which is enough to warm people’s spirits during the coldest, darkest month of the year.<br /><br />It all happens at the Main Square and some surrounding streets with a fireworks display on the final night down near the waterfront (just follow the herd to get there).<br /><br />I stayed at Hotel Plaza which overlooks the square though unfortunately I didn’t have a decent camera to get better night shots though you can still get a general idea of the carnival vibe from the ones I did take. See them at: <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas/Winter_Carnival.htm">Punta Arenas Winter Carnival</a><br /><br />I also have some video footage from the carnival which I will publish here when I get time.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-1869288555246613493?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-68841159471586318612009-09-13T23:07:00.003-04:002009-09-13T23:12:37.256-04:00Chubby fingers or Trees?<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Punta_Arenas_Cemetery/Trees.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 239px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Punta_Arenas_Cemetery/Trees.jpg" alt="Punta Arenas Cemetery Trees" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />The <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas/Cemetery.htm">cemetery of Punta Arenas</a> is not your typical necropolis. It is a fascinating place to stroll around with its immaculately trimmed cypress trees that look like giant chubby fingers protruding from the ground. Some of the mausoleums seem like miniature cathedrals; each one lavishly built to outdo the last.<br /><br />There are also many urban legends surrounding the cemetery:<br />Did you know that only one person has ever gone through the front gate, the same person that paid for them to be built?<br />Do you know why some people visit Sara Braun’s mausoleum every 1st of November?<br />Do you know who the unknown Indian is? (Of course you don’t, otherwise he wouldn’t be unknown any more)<br /><br />If you are curious to find answers to these questions and learn more about the cemetery, then visit our recently created page about the <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas/Cemetery.htm">Punta Arenas Cemetery</a>.<br /><br />Oh, and there are plenty of photos there too!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-6884115947158631861?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-46149345201843234252009-08-31T14:34:00.005-04:002009-08-31T14:39:43.752-04:00New Panoramic View of Punta ArenasOur new version of the panoramic view of <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas.htm">Punta Arenas</a> as seen from the hill overlooking the city.<br /><br />This time it was done with a video recorder instead of just the normal camera so the quality of the image is a lot better. Also the panning from one side to the other is a lot slower so you have more time to look at the details.<br /><br />The lookout from where this was taken is around 7 blocks up the hill from the main square.<br /><br />Una vista Panorámica de Punta Arenas desde el mirador a 7 cuadras de la Plaza de Armas.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iY08QG5lxhU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iY08QG5lxhU&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />Enjoy!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-4614934520184323425?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-29752870893108155392009-08-28T09:57:00.003-04:002009-08-28T10:07:44.015-04:00Flying Whales at Punta Arenas Airport<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q1n7UiUkvyg&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q1n7UiUkvyg&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />This is a video I took at the Airport of Punta Arenas in the South of Chile. It is the view from the second floor overlooking the main parts of the airport including what to expect when you go through the exit door after picking up your luggage (if it arrives!).<br /><br />What makes the airport interesting are its flying whales. Well, they aren't actually flying, they are hanging from the ceiling above everyone. These artistic creations are quite impressive since the whales are made of many individual 'slices' of clear acrylic. See if you can find them in the general overview in the video before I zoom in on them. One of the whales even has a smaller baby whale inside of it. Pretty cool!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-2975287089310815539?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-50205494041923635822009-08-26T09:17:00.003-04:002009-08-26T09:23:57.823-04:00Kiss the Indian's big toe<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/krAnzB2itaY&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/krAnzB2itaY&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />This is a video of the famous statue at the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) of <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Punta_Arenas.htm">Punta Arenas</a> in the deep south of Chile.<br /><br />The tradition is that if you kiss the Big Toe of the indian, you will return back to Punta Arenas one day. That's why the video starts with a shot of that very toe and the reason it is so shiny compared to the reason of the statue. I also filmed as I walked around the statue so that you can see it from every side and finally I took some close ups of different parts of the it.<br /><br />Have you ever kissed the indian's big toe?<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-5020549404192363582?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-24623702789276508682009-08-25T20:12:00.004-04:002009-08-25T20:27:32.979-04:00Day trip to Puerto AysenLast Saturday I visited Puerto Aysén (also spelt Puerto Aisén) which is 65km from Coyhaique in the deep south of Chile. The small town can easily be visited as a day trip from Coyhaique so I thought I’d take advantage of being in the region to check it out.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Aysen/Bridge_Fence.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 338px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Photos/Aysen/Bridge_Fence.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />You can see more photos of Puerto Aysén at:<br /><a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Puerto_Aysen.htm">www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Puerto_Aysen.htm</a><br /><br />Including one of a Tsunami Evacuation sign and the reason why it is there.<br /><br />Hope you enjoy them!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-2462370278927650868?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-49889902181969543862009-08-11T18:31:00.004-04:002009-08-11T18:36:35.184-04:00Mapuche Musical InstrumentsI was traveling around Chile last week and will be away for most of the rest of the month, basically visiting 12 different cities in the South of Chile.<br /><br />On Friday I was in <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Temuco.htm">Temuco</a> and after a great lunch at ‘El Criollito’ (the sopaipillas they serve before the meal are divine!) in the Mercado Municipal (City Council Market) and had a stroll around the many arts and crafts stands that were displaying the wares. I came across one that I found interesting where typical <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Mapuche.htm">Mapuche</a> musical instruments were being sold. I asked the man at the stand (Francisco Diaz) if he would be able to demonstrate the different instruments and give the names of them which he kindly obliged. The result is the following short video:<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/V1J5zn4LBbM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/V1J5zn4LBbM&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br />I will eventually get around to writing down the names of each instrument he mentioned and add them as captions to the video.<br /><br />If you are interested in any of these instruments, his stand is number 40-B at the end of one of the rows at the Mercado Municipal of Temuco. It's called Artesania 'La Nortina'.<br /><br />I hope you enjoyed it.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-4988990218196954386?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-46409995668545152462009-07-21T15:46:00.004-04:002009-07-21T15:53:09.609-04:00Have you experienced a Terremoto in Chile?Have you experienced a Terremoto in Chile?<br /><br />Here we are not talking about the violent movements of the Earth but the iconic Chilean drink known as the Terremoto!<br /><br />So what exactly is it?<br /><br /><b>TERREMOTO</b> - Pipeño (a type of sweet fermented wine) with pineapple ice-cream served in a one-litre glass. Terremoto literally translates as 'Earthquake' since you are left with the ground (and legs) feeling very shaky. The next round usually contains the same drink though only in a glass that holds half a litre. This is called a Replica or 'aftershock'.<br /><br />(Source: <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Drinks.htm">http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Drinks.htm</a>)<br /><br />This famous drink (you can’t really call it a cocktail and keep a straight face) originated at a well-known eating establishment/bar in Santiago called <a href="http://www.elhoyo.cl">El Hoyo</a> (literally translated as The Hole or Pit).<br /><br />The story goes that some German reporters came to Santiago to report about the damages caused by the major earthquake that had struck the city in March 1985. Due to the heat, the reporters asked for something refreshing so a waiter called Guillermo Valenzuela added some ice-cream to a glass of pipeño. When they tried the concoction, they supposedly said “Esto sí que es un Terremoto” (This truly is an earthquake) due to how strong it was and the name stuck even since.<br /><br />And those Germans weren’t far from the truth; this stuff will leave you shaking at the knees.<br /><br /><b>Terremoto Recipe</b><br /><br />The recipe is very simple with no measuring instruments required.<br /><br />1. Clump some pineapple ice-cream into a jug.<br />2. Fill the remainder of the jug up with pipeño (or fermented white wine)<br />3. Serve in a glass and drink.<br /><br />Have you ever experienced a Terremoto?<br /><br />Visit our <a href="http://www.southamerica.me/pg/groups/1117/food-and-drink-of-south-america/">South America Food and Drink Group</a> to discover more food and drink from the continent.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-4640999566854515246?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-18195781267679135682009-07-20T10:22:00.005-04:002009-07-20T10:46:06.575-04:00Menus Boards La Boca Buenos Aires<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Argentina/Photos/Buenos_Aires/La_Boca_Menus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 380px;" src="http://www.southamerica.cl/Argentina/Photos/Buenos_Aires/La_Boca_Menus.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><p>These are some menu boards outside a restaurant in the La Boca part of Buenos Aires in Argentina where we ended up eating. Writing what is on offer that day in chalk on a menu board is common there.</p><br /><p>This photo is to give you an idea of what they have on the menu in that part of town and what you will be looking at should your stomach start rumbling and you have to decide what and where to eat.</p><br /><p>The first menu board (on the left) offers:<br /></p><ul><li>Pescados</li><li>Cazuela de Mariscos P/2 Personas</li><li>Rabaz a la Romana P/2 Personas - $28</li><li>Arroz c/calamares</li><li>Abadejo c/salsa mediterranea - c/papas</li><li>Cornalitos Fritos</li><li>Salmón Rosado c/salsa 4 quesos c/papas española</li><li>Gambas al Ajillo</li></ul><p></p><br /><p>The second (middle) menu board offers:<br /></p><ul><li>Parrillada Completa P/2 Personas - $58</li><li>Bife corte tern Grille + Papas Fritas + Ensalada - $25</li><li>Pollo al Horno c/arroz + Pure Papas - $25</li></ul><p></p><br /><p>The third menu board (on the right) offers:</p><ul><li>Guiso de Lentajas a la Española - $15</li><li>Asado c/papas + ensalada - $20</li></ul><p></p><br /><p>The <b>c/</b> is an abbreviated form of <b>con</b> in Spanish which means with (or includes)</p><br /><p>So which would you like to have for lunch today?</p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-1819578126767913568?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-48729214810939448332009-07-14T10:58:00.003-04:002009-07-14T11:06:50.606-04:00New Credit Card system in ChileNo more worrying about falsified signatures, as of today a new system came into place regarding the use of credit cards in Chile. Now, if you want to buy something with a credit card you must have a 4-digit secret code called a PinPass. The reason for this change is to help prevent credit card fraud which is good both for the card holder and businesses.<br />The only other country in the world with this special system is Australia. Source (in Spanish): Las Últimas Noticias (<a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Newspapers.htm">a local newspaper</a>).<br /><br />Below I have some frequent questions about this new system in Chile:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Is it a new credit card?</span><br />No, it’s the same one you already have.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How can a get the PinPass or secret password?</span><br />Each bank has their own way of giving the code. With some you will have to get it online, with others via the ATM machine and others via a call center. Check with your local bank.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">When can you start using the PinPass?</span><br />As of today (14 July 2009) some major companies will start using this system including Lider supermarkets, service stations such as Copec, Shell and Terpel as well as the SalcoBrand pharmacies. The idea is to have all of the 60,000 stores and restaurants with this new system by mid August.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How does this system work?</span><br />The moment that you buy anything with a credit card, the saleperson will ask you to confirm the amount of purchase and then to type in your PinPass number. Once the transaction has been completed, you will receive a receipt as proof of purchase (via the credit card machine).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Can I continue to use the traditional credit card system?</span><br />There will be a transition period where you will be able to purchase both with the PinPass system as well as the traditional sign the dotted line way. In about 3 months time you will only be able to purchase using the PinPass system.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Can I purchase products overseas using my secret number?</span><br />No, the only other country with this system is Australia so if you are overseas, you will continue using the traditional signature system.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do additional cards have a different PinPass number?</span><br />Yes, if a partner or other family member has an additional card for your account, they will have their own PinPass number.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Does this have any additional cost for the user?</span><br />No, it is the same as before though now a safer way of purchasing.<br /><br /><br />My only question is what will happen to foreigners visiting the country when they make a purchase. Will they need to obtain their own PinPass number? How will they do this?<br /><br />If I find out, I will let you know. If anyone else happens to know the answer, please leave a comment below.<br /><br />Check out our following page for information about <a href="http://www.southamerica.cl/Chile/Money.htm">Money in Chile</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-4872921481093944833?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-427086203880104091.post-33343460087385870842009-07-08T17:33:00.006-04:002009-07-08T17:41:47.748-04:00Video of Tango Music being playedAs we were wandering around the streets of La Boca, a traditional part (or should I say touristy part) of Buenos Aires in Argentina, we came across this guy playing tango music on his accordian. The little stage he was playing on was hidden away in one of the many alleyways that frequent the neighbourhood.<br /><br />Take a look at all the Tango memorabilia around him, cool stuff.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cuX2N6utUc0&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cuX2N6utUc0&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/427086203880104091-3334346008738587084?l=www.southamerica.cl%2Fblog' alt='' /></div>Woodward Chilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10001642507236204065noreply@blogger.com0