A Failed Attempt

Not everything goes smoothly while traveling. In fact, rarely do things go smoothly, but I was confident when my new friend from Santiago offered to accompany us to the winery region that the trip would go off without a hitch. She made some phone calls and found out the best winery in town (an hour and a half away) to visit- then we checked out the website and everything looked legitimate, so we headed off.

When we got there, after an hour and a half in 90 degree weather on a bus without air conditioning, I was a little on edge. But, I knew that great wine and food awaited...so that kept my spirits up. Then, when the driver droped us off on the side of the highway, about a half mile past the winery, I was a little perplexed- I mean ok, I see the winery from here- but how are we supposed to find a ride home??-, but hey, a little walking never hurt anyone.

45 minutes later we reach the gate of the winery. I´m sorry, he said, the last (and only) tour was at 5. It was 5:35. We were 3 people. I let the local do the negotiating. At this point, I was in disbelief. We just walked through grapes that looked delicious for the last half an hour, and now you are telling me we cant come in?? No, not even to buy a bottle for the raod. We turned around, tails between the legs, and my new local friend appoligizing franatically.

We finally made it back to the highway, where we flagged down a bus back to Santiago. Not exactly how I planned to spend the day, but these things happen in South America, and you just have to chalk it up as a learning expierence. What did I learn?? No one is a better planner than me. :)

Imediatly after we got back, I went to the mall (yes they have malls here!) for some retail therepy. I headed straight for the food court where I was in shock to find a Taco Bell!! I was so excited now...(I am admitedly addicted to the stuff at home, some days I ride through the drive through instead of going in, because I´m embarrased that I was just there the day before)...but this was one of those Pizza Hut- Taco Bell combo´s, and the menu was small, even if I couldn´t get my favorite dishes, I ate it up happily. Even found some new things that I want and don´t need at the mall (standard). Then I went back to the hostal smoked a cuban cigar poolside and drank a cold beer. It was about then that I relized, maybe this day wasn´t so bad after all.