Whether it was the altitude or the late night pre-bus schnitzel I ate, (I suspect the latter) I hadn't felt that sick in a long time. After the border crossing from Argentina to Chile I cut loose and fed the bus seat in front of me enough spew to sink the Titanic. There wasn't even enough time to race for the bathroom. Now, truly at my worst, I was half naked, with my clothes and face full of vomit. To be fair, the altitude did beat the s*** out of me, we reached...

Who on earth designed the city plans for Valparaiso? In fact I don't think there even are any. At first glance it appears that the houses are built almost on top of each other, and they basically are. Any smidge of free space is seen as a potential dwelling and as a result, houses of all shapes and sizes have been strewn along the coast, way up the steep incline that the city is perched on all the way to the summit. The consequent view of these houses are spectac...

The difference between true Latin America and Argentina became apparent after arriving in Chile. After passing spectacular mountain views, rivers, lakes and numerous flower beds I stopped briefly in Osorno and strolled around town keen for a feed. The size of cafés (tiny - 3 tables), people (more 'Latin' looking) and food were all more similar to what I imagined the whole of South America to be like. Myself and a Dutch chum sampled the local market produce, ate...