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Devan and I arrived in Iquique, Chile in the evening and couldn't think of anything better than taking a walk on the beach. After dropping our packs off at Beach Hostel, we walked a quick block down to the shore. Taking a stroll on the beach was a perfect ending to a long day on the bus.
We began our next day by heading to the plaza. The main drag was lined with old Nitrate mansions from the 19th century, and trolly tracks ran through the middle. It was quite charming. Antique vendors, layed their goods out on the ground for all to see. They had everything- old books, records, pipes, key chains, silverwear, and other items one would expèct to find in an antique shop. I couldn't help but buy a few nick nacks. After enjoying our morning in the plaza we went to a museum that was housed in one of the old nitrate homes.
Palacio Astoreca was one of the many mansions from the 19th century nitrate mining industry. It had been nicely restored and now housed examples of modern Chilean art.... of which i didn't really understand. Some example of these modern masterpieces include, a floating suitcase, and giant tennis shoes. Although the art wasn't really my style, the house was gorgeous.
After checking out the museum we went to the local market to get some lunch. We chose a small restaurant close to where we entered. For lunch we split a giant portion of Corvina (Mahi Mahi). It was beyond tastey! Afterwards we went to the local empanada spot and shared what was supposed to be the best in Iquique. I think it lived up to our expectations. It was muy rico!
The rest of our day was spent soaking up some rays on the beach. At night we enjoyed some Sushi at La Tercero Ojito. This restaurant was gorgeous and the food was great too! Following dinner we went back to the plaza to listen to some live jazz that was playing outside of the theatre. Both bands that we saw consisted of kids that couldn't have been older than 16. They were INCREDIBLE! It was the perfect ending to an amazing first day in Iquique.
Before leaving the next afternoon, we couldn't help ourselves. We HAD to go back to the market for more fish. We got the same dish (why mess with something good?). It was just as delicious as the day before. After our early lunch it was time to head to San Pedro de Atecama. Iquique was hard to leave. It was an incredible city with plenty to do!
- comments
mommashook I'll have to look up nitrate house online. Never heard of that before. Listen to your friend who posted to stay away from certain places at night while in Valpraiso. Be safe first. Love, me.