Valparaiso, Chili

I originally thought we were going to Santiago, but it is actually 120 kilometers from Valparaiso, where the ship docks, so we chose to just explore Valparaiso on our own. The ship docks at a great location very near many of the historically interesting sites, but because of their strict attention to protecting their crops, we were bused about a mile away and all searched and sniffed by dogs, making sure we were not bringing any food into the country. Once out of the terminal we found a free tourist map (from one of the local hop on and off bus companies) and set out walking back toward the ship. We quickly discovered after trying to use several internet cafes that they did not take US money, so the next adventure was to find a money exchange. We found it to be a very safe city with everyone quite friendly and helpful. Although very few spoke English, they were still happy to try and help.
After walking back as far as the Naval Headquarters , we took an elevator up to the upper city where they have worked very hard to preserve and revive it. The view from the upper city was wonderful. I found a local artist (ink and watercolor) that had been featured in a 2003 National Geographic article about Valparaiso. He too, was an absolute delight to visit with. On our journey back down a different elevator, we discover that some are more expensive than others.
Gary went back to the ship to rest while I enjoyed the phone and internet services at the terminal.