We started with a walk to the top of San Cristobal hill, which rises 880m right in the middle of Santiago and is the city's largest public park. On the weekend it's a popular place for hiking, running, and cycling along its many paths and roads. We managed to dodge a few near misses with bikes on the way up and were soon stood before the Blessed Virgin Mary where JPII had himself conducted a mass during his 1987 visit.
Tomorrow is Chilean Independence Day, which demonstrates our bad timing by leaving today, but we were kindly invited to Ignacio's parent's house to join in the pre-celebrations with a barbecue, empanadas, and tons of wine. The whole extended family was there, with the good news that Ignacio's sister and brother-in-law might be moving to Berkeley to study! Woo!
All too soon we said farewell (after the empanadas ran out), popped back to Silvi and Ignacio's to grab a shower and our luggage, then drove through the quiet streets to the airport. We have a very quick transfer through Dallas, so might miss our connection. Maybe they'll send us back to Chile! We can hope.
Who should we see on our way to the hill? Why, a young Michael Jackson of course!
Hmmm, not a great mix.
If walking to the top isn't enough for you, you can join a spin class once you're up there.
Looking down on the city, and the construction of their South American-record tower.
The Virgin.
The view from her feet. Yep - smog.
We did it the active way: walk up, funicular down.
It's quite a long ride.
Then it was off to Ignacio's parents, and these tasty little treats.
Ignacito directs proceedings with his favourite toy.
Ignacio's sister Maca does her patriotic duty with a paper chain (but why the French colours?)
Silvi shows the plate of empanadas just for her.
Very impressive.
Modern Chilean family.
Happy birthday dear Chile! But there should really be 201 candles.
Patriots!
