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...

More magnificent mountain views passed and I was in Bariloche, the Lake District of Argentina. Aptly named for the huge lake Nauha Huapi that the town is located on. An early start was in order for the 33km lake circuit Circuto Chico or "Le tour de Chico" as I called it. I met my 2 Australian chums at the bus station at 9 for what was sure to be a true test of endurance, willpower and aerodynamics. Who will win? The stage was set, and after the debriefing at the...

Powering up through ruta 40 I tried my best to prevent myself from losing out on the spectacular mountain and lake views from the bus. However, the bender of a bus ride had taken its toll, and I found myself succumbing to the gods of snooze, falling in and out of sleep throughout the journey. I had caught wind of a planet-saving, earth loving town of around 30000 peeps known as El Bolson, situated at the foot of some mountains. I arrived, and had instantly been ...

Take a small, quiet mountain town and add a monstrosity of a natural wonder (Perito Moreno Glacier). Sprinkle over a few of the home comforts like a casino and tens of snazzy restaurants. Jack up the price of everything to almost double and then sit back, relax and watch the Gore-Tex nerds and rich pot-retirement yuppies flock to El Calafate like seagulls to a free chip. I endured all the elements on my way. From the 5am ride out of Ushuaia in snow to the chilli...