Valparaiso is 1.5 hours southwest of Santiago and lies off the Pacific Ocean. This coastal city is often called "The Jewel of the Pacific" and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To reach the upper town from the port, you need to ride a historical funicular, the Ascensor El Peral or Ascensor Reina Victoria to the top of a steep hill for stunning panoramic views.
Valparaiso is a hub of cafes, artists, street art, and musicians, and has some cute shops with local handicrafts, jewelry, or street art prints. It is world-renowned for its street murals. It is one of the only cities in the world where street art is legal, encouraged, and celebrated. Once democracy returned to Chile, artists began to use public spaces to express political and social ideas. In certain areas, murals cover nearly every wall and space. I've read that international muralists come to Valparaiso to leave their mark.
Restaurants serve Chilean fusion dishes and typical local dishes like ceviche and empanadas. Cafe del Pintor, Fauna, or Restaurant La Concepcion have rooftop views. Try one for lunch.
One of his three homes, Pablo Neruda's House, La Sebastiana, can be visited for an entry fee of $6. He won a Nobel prize for poetry in 1971 and is the pride of Chile. The house is described as quirky and is full of his collections. It also has stunning views.
Easter Island Wood Carving
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Tonight is our Farewell dinner and time to say goodbye to all our new friends. A Farewell dinner is more than just a meal. It is a chance to share memories before parting ways and keep up with new friendships formed through our shared experience.
Our waiter, Alejandro.
Since my flight is late tomorrow night, I will have some time to visit a couple of extra attractions before heading back to JFK.
Beautiful murals!! I enjoyed “We are not hippies, we’re happy!” Speaking of, it was good to see your big smile throughout the trip. Looks like you had a wonderful time and Greta weather. Thanks for sharing the adventure! ❤️
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