Una foto vale mil palabras

There are so many things to share about being in Chile that I am actually semi-overwhelmed about this whole blog thing.  It has only been two weeks, and I want to tell you guys everything about everything, but for now, less words, mas fotos.
  I keep having to tell myself that we have time to see it all, and not to rush it, but it is difficult to hold back with so many beautiful buildings, views, etc.  Last week I started my intensive Spanish class (more on that later) which meets from 9-1:30.  We used the afternoons to do a LOT of walking and see some pretty neat things.  The architecture alone is so fantastic that it makes you feel as if you have been transported to another time.  Restoring old buildings and appreciating one's heritage instead of knocking them down to build high rises and parking lots--- gotta love it.

The Teatro Municipal hosts all kinds of performances.  I hope to see inside at some point. 

 The beautiful Santa Lucia Hill (park) in the middle of the city creates almost an Oasis in the middle of chaos.  There were people in every nook of this park making out (obviously), and once you climbed the ultra-steep stairs, the views were pretty stunning.  In the park is a monument to Pedro Valdivia (who conquered the hill and "discovered" Santiago) and a defense fort (Castle).  Mire!

There were a few dogs... Obviously

       

 That hill in the distance is Cerro San Cristobal.  It is on the "to-do" list.

Ahhh.  Santa Lucia.  What a beautiful place.  The next two pictures are with La Moneda, the Presidential Palace.  Mr. Pres doesn't actually live here, although, as you can see, it is very difficult to get very close.  Even from afar though, it is pretty fantastic.  

Last Friday afternoon we reserved for San Cristobal; however, when we arrived the "funicular" that takes you up the mountain was out of service (bummer).  We went to the zoologico in the park, which was built right into the side of the mountain, meaning lots of uphill walking.  Spring was definitely in the air at the zoo, if... you know what I mean.  Lets just say "Como que estan reproduciendo?" from the mouth of a small child is now a Spanish phrase I didn't know I'd know.  

Anyway, after spending so much time at the zoo, our drive to climb that mountain diminished.  We hiked about half way up and decided to come back another day when we had more time.  I am definitely anticipating the view from the top since these pictures were taken less than half way up.  

We also visited the Plaza de Armas, which is the plaza in the middle of the city that holds the post office and the national cathedral.  Both of those things were very beautiful (I know.. a post office you say?  But seriously). There were also tons of guys playing chess in the middle of the day.  What a life.  

 
 



And for your entertainment.....Equal parts funny and delicious :).