Daddy visits his baby girl in Chile

Dad, or I suppose he's Papá when he's here, was visiting the other week, and he brought some Texas warmth and sunshine along with him.  He also brought a suitcase full of gifts, and other delicacies (specifically chocolate chips and cheez-its!), which made it feel like my birthday -- thanks, Dad!

The week he arrived, the weather warmed up and we had plenty of sunshine, instead of the rainy weather of the weeks preceding his arrival.  Even more importantly, the warm feeling of having my dad alongside me here was wonderful.  I wanted to show him all of my life here, but also explore some of the surrounding areas and show him what central Chile has to offer.  In just a few short days, we packed in a lot of exploring.

Day 1 we made a point to try out several modes of transportation in the city -- foot, bus, metro, taxi -- while getting to know my neighborhood, my typical route to work, and also exploring the city.

Day 2 we rented a car and found our way to a rural bed-and-breakfast in the small town Santa Maria.  The inn-keeper was calling us along the way and ensuring us that the route was well-marked, which it in no way was, but visiting all of the surrounding towns was enjoyable.  In conversations with several locals, we heard both sides of the complex political situations that Chile experienced in the 70s.

Day 3, after learning that the mountain pass to the nearby ski area was closed due to snow, we took the next best alternative and drove to the coast instead!  In Chile, the ocean and mountains are never far, and it was a beautiful day for wandering the hills of the port city Valparaíso.
Day 4 we coordinated with my friend and fellow-Fulbrighter Lily and her mom who was visiting Santiago, and we took a tour of the Concha y Toro vineyards outside of Santiago.  Also hit Santiago rush hour in our rental car, which was less enjoyable, but an experience in itself.

Day 5, the mountain pass was re-opened, and we hit the slopes at Portillo, along with the Austrian ski team of course.  The ski runs were enjoyable (as was the opportunity to ski in August!), but in fact the most incredible part was the scenery, with dramatic cliffs falling into a gorgeous lake below us.

Day 6, on a quest for more vistas, Dad and I took a hike outside of Santiago with views of the city and also the surrounding mountains.  Another beautiful day, for both the scenery and the company!

For a better feel of the landscapes and our adventures, see more photos here!