Here I am in Santiago de Chile, a modern capital in comparison with Buenos Aires. I settle down at Hostal Plaza Brasil. Because it's not yet officially open the place is clean and spacious and the few people already there are very nice (apart from an alcoholic). I explain my Project and everyone starts helping me; thank you all again!

I visit Santiago by going from one appointment to another one; I use extensively the underround which is really modern. I make the most of it to visit the modern art and Chilean history museums which I strongly invite you to discover.

After a few days looking for a beetle, I rapily chose a special model: one with a mp3 player. A few negociations later with the owner (against who I launch a fatwa*), I'm the proud owner of a white 97 Mexican beetle.

*The purchase process is achieved in a few days except for the roadworthy authorization which obtention is bond to the payment of all past fines… Rodriguez had just "forgotten" to mention his 800USD and that's how I found myself with a vehicle with a Chilean registration plate, country where I'm not allowed to drive since 31/03… Rodriguez's contact details are available upon request: please see the section "Contact us".

I leave the car in a garage specialised in beetles for 3 days whilst I go and visit Valparaiso in the company of Mireya a very professional guide (Viajando Aprendido).

Valparaiso is a pittoresque port that povery keeps on building. The tourist is invited to follow a precise path drawn by the tourist office…

We are hosted by mireya's grand-mother; the house is humble but the welcome very warm.

After a night spent in Viña del Mar with Mireya and a few friends of hers we go back to Santiago, tired but impatient to test drive the beetle.

The car is ready 2 days later. I decide of my return to Buenos Aires. Will the Andes crossing be difficult? I start the engine, say goodbye for the last time to the other guest of the hostel,  put the indicator and contemplate again this same feeling of unknown that I've had for a few months now. I enjoy the adventure: where will it lead to? The travel and the target easily mix up. I really hope I can share my feelings with you through the website.