Hola todos,
Since I have been here, I haven't watched much TV. However, since I have been sick the past 3 days, I've been catching up on some of my TV watching. Overall, it is TV just like in the US, however, I was very very very surprised when I was watching a movie and there was a nude scene and I mean, nude scene. Never ever in the U.S.!! And, a more shocking moment, they actually cursed on a show! Not like "Oh darn!" or "Crap!" But, actual swear words. I was so suprised!
But all of that aside, the TV is typical here, some programs dubbed into Spanish and others with sub-titles. I am assuming everyone has seen a dubbed movie. They can be so funny! Especially English movies dubbed in Spanish. I feel as if the Spanish actors just add so much more feeling into everything. For example, in the undubbed English movie: "Are you going out tonight?" in dubbed Spanish movie: Ay!! My friend! Are you going out tonight?!?" Very entertaining. Also, dubbed shows such as "The Simpsons" (it's called "Los Simpson" here) is funny because the voices are completely different than the actual Simpson characters.
Regardless, I realized that I should watch more TV here because it is very helpful for my Spanish. I am able to hear them speak, and sub-titles help me see the English to Spanish translation.
Who would've thought it would be encouraged to watch TV? "Ay ya yai!!!"
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
3 Months In Chile/ Half Way
Hola todos,
It is crazy to believe that it is almost June! I have been here for a little more than 3 months, as well as half of my trip. Weirdly, it has gone by quickly, but it has also gone by slowly. For example, thinking about it now, it's strange to think that 3 months ago, I was in San Pedro de Atacama, but thinking that I was in Mendoza a little over a month ago doesn't seem that recent. It feels like it has been at least a month since I was there. This, is a good thing. I don't want this trip to speed by.
School wise, my brain doesn't even know what's going on. It doesn't know how to feel. Does it feel like it just began a week ago? Or is it ending? Due to all of the lack of classes, who knows. But regardless, school will be ending in, according to the schedule, one month, exactly. Which I am actually quite happy about. I have enjoyed Santiago and am happy to have another month here to see more, but, it is started to get wintery and cold. Therefore, I am ready to explore the rest of South America.
It is crazy to believe that it is almost June! I have been here for a little more than 3 months, as well as half of my trip. Weirdly, it has gone by quickly, but it has also gone by slowly. For example, thinking about it now, it's strange to think that 3 months ago, I was in San Pedro de Atacama, but thinking that I was in Mendoza a little over a month ago doesn't seem that recent. It feels like it has been at least a month since I was there. This, is a good thing. I don't want this trip to speed by.
School wise, my brain doesn't even know what's going on. It doesn't know how to feel. Does it feel like it just began a week ago? Or is it ending? Due to all of the lack of classes, who knows. But regardless, school will be ending in, according to the schedule, one month, exactly. Which I am actually quite happy about. I have enjoyed Santiago and am happy to have another month here to see more, but, it is started to get wintery and cold. Therefore, I am ready to explore the rest of South America.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Anyone, Anyone?
Hola todos,
As I wrote in a recent blog, I am planning on traveling around South America for about a month and a half after school ends. Right now, I am factually going to Buenos Aires. Whether I take a bus there or the world is ending and there is a huge fiery pit between Chile and Argentina, I don't care. I will create a lava suit and swim across the lava river to Argentina.
As I wrote in a recent blog, I am planning on traveling around South America for about a month and a half after school ends. Right now, I am factually going to Buenos Aires. Whether I take a bus there or the world is ending and there is a huge fiery pit between Chile and Argentina, I don't care. I will create a lava suit and swim across the lava river to Argentina.
While there, I plan on going to Montevideo in Uruguay which is two hours from Buenos Aires. Those two cities are facts. I am also thinking about traveling north to the border of Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina to a place called Cataratas del Iguazú, which is a place with dozens of waterfalls. Apparently it puts Niagara Falls to shame. I also hope to go to Brazil. If I'm at Cataratas del Iguazú, I feel I might as well go to Paraguay and Brazil too. But, that's all up in the air. I mean, I want to go to Bolivia and Peru as well. I know I am being idealistic.
I am wondering if anyone has been to any of these places and would like to give me their opinion? Any advice would be great!!
It's Starvation! It's Disease! No, It's Just Rain.
Hola todos,
Today and yesterday, it has been raining gatos and perros (cats and dogs)! Because of all of the strikes that are going on at my university, I haven't had class, but listen to this, because of the rain, school was cancelled for everyone today. I watched the news yesterday, and seriously, if a person were watching this without understanding it, they would think that the apocalypse were coming. Everyone is panicking and no one knows what to do!!!!
I can't help but laugh at this, I mean, really Santiago? Snow, okay, I can understand that. But it's just a rain storm.
Sadly I have a cold (not because of the rain, I got it during the weekend). I guess it is an opportune time to get sick, I mean, the weather's horrible so I am not missing anything. Plus, there is probably complete anarchy occurring outside. Instead of experiencing the end of Santiago myself, I get to watch all the rain coming down from my window inside. As I said, being sick is not the worst thing in the world right now.
Let's hope the rain doesn't keep up because the entire city might be evacuated. (I say this in a joking way, hopefully).
Today and yesterday, it has been raining gatos and perros (cats and dogs)! Because of all of the strikes that are going on at my university, I haven't had class, but listen to this, because of the rain, school was cancelled for everyone today. I watched the news yesterday, and seriously, if a person were watching this without understanding it, they would think that the apocalypse were coming. Everyone is panicking and no one knows what to do!!!!
I can't help but laugh at this, I mean, really Santiago? Snow, okay, I can understand that. But it's just a rain storm.
Sadly I have a cold (not because of the rain, I got it during the weekend). I guess it is an opportune time to get sick, I mean, the weather's horrible so I am not missing anything. Plus, there is probably complete anarchy occurring outside. Instead of experiencing the end of Santiago myself, I get to watch all the rain coming down from my window inside. As I said, being sick is not the worst thing in the world right now.
Let's hope the rain doesn't keep up because the entire city might be evacuated. (I say this in a joking way, hopefully).
Middlebury Trip: La Campana
Hola todos,
This weekend, I went on a trip a few hours north with my program. The great thing about this was that I didn't have to pay for anything, besides the bus ticket which was US$10. Big lunches, sleeping arrangements and activities were all covered. It was nice to be taken care of and be able to just go with the flow. We went to a town up north called Olmué. We arrived in the morning of Saturday. While we waited for the bus to come get us, I met an adorable dog I named Hoja, which means leaf, because the first time I saw her she was rolling around in a big pile of leaves. She came over to say Hi, and I spent some time petting here with she thoroughly enjoyed. Absolutely adorable. There are at least 10 dogs that I would be willing to take home with me!!
We met up with everyone, it was 12 of us, of the 19 people in the group in total. When we arrived, our directors, Pame y Jeff, picked us up and we went out for lunch. Again, it was wonderful to have everything planned out. I ordered Pastel de Choclo which was very good, but I didn't finish it all so I took it to the house we stayed out to eat for dinner.
After lunch, we went to a botanical garden to look at Chilean plants and other Chilean pottery/ clothing. Afterwards at around 7 we arrived at the house for free time. We went outside and kicked a soccer ball around, then played cards. That was a lot of fun. We then had a little dinner, I had the left over Pastel de Choclo. We played another game of cards and then retired for the night.
The next morning, we woke up at 8:15 to eat breakfast and then go to La Campana which is a mountain nearby. We hiked about 5 hours up and another 1 and a half coming down. It was a lot of fun and absolutely beautiful. I took lots of nice pictures with my new camera (My host mom's mom went to NY, and my real mom was nice enough to give her a camera to take back with here, however my real mom forgot to pack the charger and computer connector, so when I buy one, I'll upload the pictures).
We got back to the bottom at around 2 and then went out for lunch. I got a roast beef type meat. It was good and we were all really hungry from the hike. At 5:00, the Santiago girls and I got on a bus to come back to Santiago.
I had a nice time being with all the other Middlebury students and get out of Santiago for a weekend for fresh air. I have traveled a lot in the past few weekends and it has been a great experience to see all of these new places. I need to start planning my traveling after university ends!
Here are some photos!
This weekend, I went on a trip a few hours north with my program. The great thing about this was that I didn't have to pay for anything, besides the bus ticket which was US$10. Big lunches, sleeping arrangements and activities were all covered. It was nice to be taken care of and be able to just go with the flow. We went to a town up north called Olmué. We arrived in the morning of Saturday. While we waited for the bus to come get us, I met an adorable dog I named Hoja, which means leaf, because the first time I saw her she was rolling around in a big pile of leaves. She came over to say Hi, and I spent some time petting here with she thoroughly enjoyed. Absolutely adorable. There are at least 10 dogs that I would be willing to take home with me!!
We met up with everyone, it was 12 of us, of the 19 people in the group in total. When we arrived, our directors, Pame y Jeff, picked us up and we went out for lunch. Again, it was wonderful to have everything planned out. I ordered Pastel de Choclo which was very good, but I didn't finish it all so I took it to the house we stayed out to eat for dinner.
After lunch, we went to a botanical garden to look at Chilean plants and other Chilean pottery/ clothing. Afterwards at around 7 we arrived at the house for free time. We went outside and kicked a soccer ball around, then played cards. That was a lot of fun. We then had a little dinner, I had the left over Pastel de Choclo. We played another game of cards and then retired for the night.
The next morning, we woke up at 8:15 to eat breakfast and then go to La Campana which is a mountain nearby. We hiked about 5 hours up and another 1 and a half coming down. It was a lot of fun and absolutely beautiful. I took lots of nice pictures with my new camera (My host mom's mom went to NY, and my real mom was nice enough to give her a camera to take back with here, however my real mom forgot to pack the charger and computer connector, so when I buy one, I'll upload the pictures).
We got back to the bottom at around 2 and then went out for lunch. I got a roast beef type meat. It was good and we were all really hungry from the hike. At 5:00, the Santiago girls and I got on a bus to come back to Santiago.
I had a nice time being with all the other Middlebury students and get out of Santiago for a weekend for fresh air. I have traveled a lot in the past few weekends and it has been a great experience to see all of these new places. I need to start planning my traveling after university ends!
Here are some photos!
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| Some cacti at the Botanical Garden |
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| A view while hiking La Campana |
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| This one too |
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| A cave we encountered while hiking |
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
A Taste of New York
Hola todos,
The food here is quite different than the food in NYC, obviously. For example, they don't have bagels, nor good pizza, nor Black and White cookies. However, they do have a taste of NYC (pun intended). Since I have been here, I see Nuts4Nuts carts everywhere (nuts with a caramelized shell). It's very weird to be walking down a street in Santiago and smell nuts being caramelized, considering these stands are associated with NYC to me. They also sell hotdogs on the street corners. However, they are not the typical hotdog in NYC (hotdog in bun with mustard and/or ketchup.) They are actually called completos, which is a hotdog in a bun covered in a layer of tomatoes, covered in guacamole, covered in mayo, with ketchup and/or mustard. Though they seem overwhelming, they are pretty good. I have only had one, but they are a huge thing here.
Who would've thought I'd find a little taste of NYC here in Santiago?
This is a completo!
The food here is quite different than the food in NYC, obviously. For example, they don't have bagels, nor good pizza, nor Black and White cookies. However, they do have a taste of NYC (pun intended). Since I have been here, I see Nuts4Nuts carts everywhere (nuts with a caramelized shell). It's very weird to be walking down a street in Santiago and smell nuts being caramelized, considering these stands are associated with NYC to me. They also sell hotdogs on the street corners. However, they are not the typical hotdog in NYC (hotdog in bun with mustard and/or ketchup.) They are actually called completos, which is a hotdog in a bun covered in a layer of tomatoes, covered in guacamole, covered in mayo, with ketchup and/or mustard. Though they seem overwhelming, they are pretty good. I have only had one, but they are a huge thing here.
Who would've thought I'd find a little taste of NYC here in Santiago?
This is a completo!
Google, You Failed Me
Hola todos,
Generally I love Google, and I don't know if I could live without it. However, this previous Sunday, after getting back from Maipo, I decided to Google an artisanal market near the area; it was a beautiful day. I clicked the first link and found a market called Aldea de Vitacura. I caught a bus and went on my merry way. I of course missed the stop, (only by one stop), so I got off and started walking back. I didn't see a market so I asked a few people. Of course none of them knew; I was on the right street I just didn't see it anywhere. I finally asked this couple and they said, oh the Aldea de Vitacura market? That was right there (pointed at a corner), but then they make it into a building... 6 years ago.... Really Google?
Since I had no market to go to, and couldn't falsely Google another market to go to, I decided to just start walking down Vitacura. Well, I just walked, and walked and walked, because it was a beautiful day. Eventually, I figured, I may as well just walk home. I got to my neighborhood, got something to eat, and then returned back to my house. In total, that entire trip was a 10 mile walk. Instead of going to buy some Chilean items, I walked my heart out and got to know the area of that city.
Google you failed me, but it all worked out in the end.
These are some of the things I saw along the way.
Generally I love Google, and I don't know if I could live without it. However, this previous Sunday, after getting back from Maipo, I decided to Google an artisanal market near the area; it was a beautiful day. I clicked the first link and found a market called Aldea de Vitacura. I caught a bus and went on my merry way. I of course missed the stop, (only by one stop), so I got off and started walking back. I didn't see a market so I asked a few people. Of course none of them knew; I was on the right street I just didn't see it anywhere. I finally asked this couple and they said, oh the Aldea de Vitacura market? That was right there (pointed at a corner), but then they make it into a building... 6 years ago.... Really Google?
Since I had no market to go to, and couldn't falsely Google another market to go to, I decided to just start walking down Vitacura. Well, I just walked, and walked and walked, because it was a beautiful day. Eventually, I figured, I may as well just walk home. I got to my neighborhood, got something to eat, and then returned back to my house. In total, that entire trip was a 10 mile walk. Instead of going to buy some Chilean items, I walked my heart out and got to know the area of that city.
Google you failed me, but it all worked out in the end.
These are some of the things I saw along the way.
Chile is definitely behind the times! Blockbuster went out of business years ago!
A street covered in autumn leaves
A sculpture at a park
An art exhibit in a plaza
Shoes, Shoes, Shoes
Hola todos,
Throughout my blog, I have talked a few times about fashion and shoes here in Chile. At first, I was very opposed to wearing heels, or even buying shoes here because they seemed expensive.However, in the past few weeks, that has all changed.
I like shoes because, as opposed to clothing, shoes will pretty much always fit you, when you've become a full-grown adult. One can always gain or lose weight, but feet pretty much always stay the same. Therefore, shoes are the easiest and most reliable thing to buy.
Since I have been in Chile, I have bought, ten pairs of shoes!! And before you think, wow that's a lot of money, it's actually not really because all of the shoes I have bought are strangely cheap, as in, at most US$15.These shoes include, two pairs of high heeled sandals (one pair wedges, one pair heel), two pairs of high heeled booties (small boots), two pairs of boots, three pairs of tennis/ Keds-type shoes, and one pair of slip-on shoes. Crazy right?!
As seen by this list, almost half of these shoes are heels, meaning I have started wearing heels during weekends, or dressing up. Surprisingly, I actually enjoy wearing them, even if my feet hurt the entire time and next day. Eh, being beautiful can hurt. I am not sure if I will be buying any more shoes here during my trip, but, I will say in my defense that I completely under packed coming here, so my suitcase won't be bulging with new shoes. But, that's subject to change I suppose.
Throughout my blog, I have talked a few times about fashion and shoes here in Chile. At first, I was very opposed to wearing heels, or even buying shoes here because they seemed expensive.However, in the past few weeks, that has all changed.
I like shoes because, as opposed to clothing, shoes will pretty much always fit you, when you've become a full-grown adult. One can always gain or lose weight, but feet pretty much always stay the same. Therefore, shoes are the easiest and most reliable thing to buy.
Since I have been in Chile, I have bought, ten pairs of shoes!! And before you think, wow that's a lot of money, it's actually not really because all of the shoes I have bought are strangely cheap, as in, at most US$15.These shoes include, two pairs of high heeled sandals (one pair wedges, one pair heel), two pairs of high heeled booties (small boots), two pairs of boots, three pairs of tennis/ Keds-type shoes, and one pair of slip-on shoes. Crazy right?!
As seen by this list, almost half of these shoes are heels, meaning I have started wearing heels during weekends, or dressing up. Surprisingly, I actually enjoy wearing them, even if my feet hurt the entire time and next day. Eh, being beautiful can hurt. I am not sure if I will be buying any more shoes here during my trip, but, I will say in my defense that I completely under packed coming here, so my suitcase won't be bulging with new shoes. But, that's subject to change I suppose.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Cajón Del Maipo
Hola todos,
This weekend, I went 45 minutes south with Micaela, Arantxa, Laurel, Ignacion and Aly to an area called Cajón del Maipo. Ignacio drove us there Friday night, we stayed all of Saturday and left Sunday morning. On Friday, we got there in the late evening. We went and ate dinner, went for a walk, then returned to the hostel and played cards. We went to sleep rather early because we wanted to wake up early.
The next morning, we woke up at 9AM to eat breakfast and then went to organize what we wanted to do. There is a park there about 20 miles from the town called "Las Cascadas de Las Animas" and we drove there for the day. When we arrived, we went for an hour and a half hike around the area where we saw a few waterfalls, and the area generally. There were many snow-capped mountains around the area, which made a beautiful backdrop to the river and waterfalls. It was a nice hike; compared the trek up the volcano last weekend, it was a walk in the park.
When we returned, Laurel, Arantxa, Aly and I went horse riding while Micaela and Ignacio went zip-lining. It was so much fun! My horse's name was Cowin. He was 18, the oldest horse among all of them. He was a great horse. We climbed up a big mountain which overlooked the town, a close view of the snow-capped mountains, and an abundance of leave-changing-colors trees. I hadn't been horse riding in a while and it was very nice. After an hour and a half, we returned at the main area where we met up with Micaela and Ignacio. We then went back to the town and out for dinner. We were all very hungry. I ordered a very Chilean dish called "Pastel de Choclo" which is a bowl of various meats, and a hard boiled egg in a potato filling covered with a layer of choclo (a type of corn). Very delicious. We took a walk around the area to see it in daylight. A nice quaint town. That night, we relaxed, drank tea, and watched Chilean game shows. Strange TV shows they have here. In the morning, we woke up to eat breakfast and then we left.
It was a nice little weekend trip, and it is so close by. I also met the cutest dog. I named him Foxy, because he looks like a little fox. Absolutely adorable.
This weekend, I went 45 minutes south with Micaela, Arantxa, Laurel, Ignacion and Aly to an area called Cajón del Maipo. Ignacio drove us there Friday night, we stayed all of Saturday and left Sunday morning. On Friday, we got there in the late evening. We went and ate dinner, went for a walk, then returned to the hostel and played cards. We went to sleep rather early because we wanted to wake up early.
The next morning, we woke up at 9AM to eat breakfast and then went to organize what we wanted to do. There is a park there about 20 miles from the town called "Las Cascadas de Las Animas" and we drove there for the day. When we arrived, we went for an hour and a half hike around the area where we saw a few waterfalls, and the area generally. There were many snow-capped mountains around the area, which made a beautiful backdrop to the river and waterfalls. It was a nice hike; compared the trek up the volcano last weekend, it was a walk in the park.
When we returned, Laurel, Arantxa, Aly and I went horse riding while Micaela and Ignacio went zip-lining. It was so much fun! My horse's name was Cowin. He was 18, the oldest horse among all of them. He was a great horse. We climbed up a big mountain which overlooked the town, a close view of the snow-capped mountains, and an abundance of leave-changing-colors trees. I hadn't been horse riding in a while and it was very nice. After an hour and a half, we returned at the main area where we met up with Micaela and Ignacio. We then went back to the town and out for dinner. We were all very hungry. I ordered a very Chilean dish called "Pastel de Choclo" which is a bowl of various meats, and a hard boiled egg in a potato filling covered with a layer of choclo (a type of corn). Very delicious. We took a walk around the area to see it in daylight. A nice quaint town. That night, we relaxed, drank tea, and watched Chilean game shows. Strange TV shows they have here. In the morning, we woke up to eat breakfast and then we left.
It was a nice little weekend trip, and it is so close by. I also met the cutest dog. I named him Foxy, because he looks like a little fox. Absolutely adorable.
Me and Foxy!
"Las Cascadas de Las Aminas" Park.
My friends that you all have heard so much about.
Left to right: Micaela, Ignacio, me, Arantxa, Laurel, Aly.
University of Chile A.K.A. University of Strikes
Hola todos,
The university I attend here is very into the student movement of free education. I decided to go to this university because my other option, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, is mainly where the upper class go to school. I wanted to be at a school with a real image of Chile.
The problem with this choice, is that because these people, generally, are not as wealthy at the student body at Católica, they are very active in fighting for free education. Because of this, there are many strikes, marches, and cancelling of classes. I understand this whole idea, and I think it makes sense, but it has quite an interference with my classes.
Usually I have 4 days of class a week. (I don't have classes on Fridays.) However, the last time I have a 4 day week was, 5 weeks ago!! And not even all of those weeks were just 3 day weeks. This week, I have one day of classes. There is a week-long strike going on right now, so from last Wednesday to this Wednesday, there is not class. (Though this Tuesday is a holiday and we would have school off regardless.) Either way, is that not crazy? I have been in class for more than 2 months and can say that for half of that, I have not had a full week.
While these classes are being cancelled, the school semester keeps getting longer. Even though the class is cancelled, it still has to be completed, so the semester extends. Apparently a semester that would have ended usually in late June, ended in October one year. However, being an international, our program ends on a certain date and therefore we have to have completed our courses at a certain time. For this reason, most of the professors at the university are willing to get together with the internationals and have lessons with them. I hope it doesn't come to that because, I may as well have not gone to a Chilean school.
Where do I go to school you ask? I am not even sure if I could say I'm attending one.
The university I attend here is very into the student movement of free education. I decided to go to this university because my other option, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, is mainly where the upper class go to school. I wanted to be at a school with a real image of Chile.
The problem with this choice, is that because these people, generally, are not as wealthy at the student body at Católica, they are very active in fighting for free education. Because of this, there are many strikes, marches, and cancelling of classes. I understand this whole idea, and I think it makes sense, but it has quite an interference with my classes.
Usually I have 4 days of class a week. (I don't have classes on Fridays.) However, the last time I have a 4 day week was, 5 weeks ago!! And not even all of those weeks were just 3 day weeks. This week, I have one day of classes. There is a week-long strike going on right now, so from last Wednesday to this Wednesday, there is not class. (Though this Tuesday is a holiday and we would have school off regardless.) Either way, is that not crazy? I have been in class for more than 2 months and can say that for half of that, I have not had a full week.
While these classes are being cancelled, the school semester keeps getting longer. Even though the class is cancelled, it still has to be completed, so the semester extends. Apparently a semester that would have ended usually in late June, ended in October one year. However, being an international, our program ends on a certain date and therefore we have to have completed our courses at a certain time. For this reason, most of the professors at the university are willing to get together with the internationals and have lessons with them. I hope it doesn't come to that because, I may as well have not gone to a Chilean school.
Where do I go to school you ask? I am not even sure if I could say I'm attending one.
Pucón, Chile
Hola todos,
Two weekends ago, I went to Pucón which is a town 10 hours south of Santiago. Eight girls and I took the night bus there at 11PM. Sadly I didn't get much sleep. Being tall, it is difficult to be comfortable in a bus seat. Oh well. When we arrived Friday morning, we went to the grocery store to buy some food, and then went to the hostal to put our stuff down.
Afterwards, we made plans to go on a tour in which we would see all the waterfalls in the area and go to the thermal bathes. The waterfalls were beautiful and the thermal bathes were wonderful. One of them was so hot that I actually couldn't get used to the heat! It felt nice but I couldn't move my body because then it would get hot all over again. Though, it was quite chilly (pun not intended), and it was worth the immobilization.
The next day, Saturday, we went canyoning! It was... well, interesting. It was most of our first times, including myself, so we didn't know what to expect. We met the tour guides at 10AM, headed to get our wetsuits, helmets, and equipment. Afterwards, we walked through a very beautiful woodsy area with streams and lots of green. When we got to the first waterfall, they showed us what to do, and we started! Obviously I did not go first. When I did go, I was actually really really nervous because the guy was saying that we have to lean back (so we down smash our heads into the rocks if we drop our feet, reassuring right?) and hold our right hand to our right side and steadily loosen the rope as we propel down. Well, I thought that I was holding on to this rope for my life, though the guy on top of the waterfall and on the bottom were holding us up, so I was gripping onto it for dear life. Half way down, I actually thought my hand was just going to give out. It just couldn't hold my body up anymore. But, I dealt with it, I suppose a temporary pain in my hand is worth keeping my life. Finally I made it to the ground, and I had never been so happy to be on the ground. We continued on to the next waterfalls, which were steadily getting higher (the first was 30m, second was 60 m, third was 90 m). At the second one, I felt more at ease, but still nervous. The third was the same. However, the walk from waterfall to waterfall was beautiful. We walked through streams, around little waterfalls, through a cave, and through lush forest. I am very happy I did it, but once was enough.
Sunday, I climbed a volcano called Villarrica! We woke up at 5:30AM to meet the guides and get our equipment ready. We brought a backpack with us filled with water/ food/ gear, and they gave us a windbreaker, pants, and shoes.
The hike is a solid 8 hours (6 to go up, 2 to go down). There is a ski lift there and if it is operating, it would shave about an hour and a half off the trek. However, the ski lift was not working. We made it to the first rest stop which was about an hour from the bottom. Wow, it was a very tiring first hour. The hard part hadn't even slightly begun. We continued on, and at the rest area at the half way point, we put on these sharp claw-like things onto the bottom of our shoes, called crampons, because it was going to get icy. They also gave us an ice pick and showed us what to do in case we fall. It was crazy because from the ground, this half way point looked like the 5/6th mark. But at the half way point, you see that there is another huge part of the volcano not visible. It was quite a shock.
The view at the half way point was breath-taking. We were above the clouds, and could see the huge lake nearby, and neighboring volcanoes. As we continued, it became more and more beautiful. We finally made it to the top, and it was beautiful, but it was more so a, thank-goodness-I-made-it moment. It was very windy, so we relished the moment and then started our trek back down. Usually, climbers are able to sled down the mountain from the top. (They would give you a little sled-seat to bring to the top.) However, it was too icy so we wouldn't have been able to stop. That was a disappointment because a lot of people say that the best part of the climb is being able to sled down the top. Oh well.
Making it to the bottom was a lot easier, and before we knew it, we were at the bottom. While at the bottom and walking to the bus, I saw perhaps the most beautiful part of the trip. It had begun to snow lightly, though the sun was out, and I spotted a rainbow! It arced over the volcano is a perfect half circle. It was a moment that I will never forget. A perfect moment. The ends of the rainbow were even visible. How many people can say that they've seen the bottom of a rainbow? I wish I could've gotten a picture, but it wouldn't have done it justice.
That night, we went out for a quick dinner and got on the night bus back to Santiago at 9:45PM. Let's just say, it wouldn't have mattered if I were 7 feet tall. It was a wonderful sleep on the bus. Pucón is an absolutely breath-taking part of Chile and I experienced many new things there. It was a great, full, tiring weekend.
Two weekends ago, I went to Pucón which is a town 10 hours south of Santiago. Eight girls and I took the night bus there at 11PM. Sadly I didn't get much sleep. Being tall, it is difficult to be comfortable in a bus seat. Oh well. When we arrived Friday morning, we went to the grocery store to buy some food, and then went to the hostal to put our stuff down.
Afterwards, we made plans to go on a tour in which we would see all the waterfalls in the area and go to the thermal bathes. The waterfalls were beautiful and the thermal bathes were wonderful. One of them was so hot that I actually couldn't get used to the heat! It felt nice but I couldn't move my body because then it would get hot all over again. Though, it was quite chilly (pun not intended), and it was worth the immobilization.
The next day, Saturday, we went canyoning! It was... well, interesting. It was most of our first times, including myself, so we didn't know what to expect. We met the tour guides at 10AM, headed to get our wetsuits, helmets, and equipment. Afterwards, we walked through a very beautiful woodsy area with streams and lots of green. When we got to the first waterfall, they showed us what to do, and we started! Obviously I did not go first. When I did go, I was actually really really nervous because the guy was saying that we have to lean back (so we down smash our heads into the rocks if we drop our feet, reassuring right?) and hold our right hand to our right side and steadily loosen the rope as we propel down. Well, I thought that I was holding on to this rope for my life, though the guy on top of the waterfall and on the bottom were holding us up, so I was gripping onto it for dear life. Half way down, I actually thought my hand was just going to give out. It just couldn't hold my body up anymore. But, I dealt with it, I suppose a temporary pain in my hand is worth keeping my life. Finally I made it to the ground, and I had never been so happy to be on the ground. We continued on to the next waterfalls, which were steadily getting higher (the first was 30m, second was 60 m, third was 90 m). At the second one, I felt more at ease, but still nervous. The third was the same. However, the walk from waterfall to waterfall was beautiful. We walked through streams, around little waterfalls, through a cave, and through lush forest. I am very happy I did it, but once was enough.
Sunday, I climbed a volcano called Villarrica! We woke up at 5:30AM to meet the guides and get our equipment ready. We brought a backpack with us filled with water/ food/ gear, and they gave us a windbreaker, pants, and shoes.
The hike is a solid 8 hours (6 to go up, 2 to go down). There is a ski lift there and if it is operating, it would shave about an hour and a half off the trek. However, the ski lift was not working. We made it to the first rest stop which was about an hour from the bottom. Wow, it was a very tiring first hour. The hard part hadn't even slightly begun. We continued on, and at the rest area at the half way point, we put on these sharp claw-like things onto the bottom of our shoes, called crampons, because it was going to get icy. They also gave us an ice pick and showed us what to do in case we fall. It was crazy because from the ground, this half way point looked like the 5/6th mark. But at the half way point, you see that there is another huge part of the volcano not visible. It was quite a shock.
The view at the half way point was breath-taking. We were above the clouds, and could see the huge lake nearby, and neighboring volcanoes. As we continued, it became more and more beautiful. We finally made it to the top, and it was beautiful, but it was more so a, thank-goodness-I-made-it moment. It was very windy, so we relished the moment and then started our trek back down. Usually, climbers are able to sled down the mountain from the top. (They would give you a little sled-seat to bring to the top.) However, it was too icy so we wouldn't have been able to stop. That was a disappointment because a lot of people say that the best part of the climb is being able to sled down the top. Oh well.
Making it to the bottom was a lot easier, and before we knew it, we were at the bottom. While at the bottom and walking to the bus, I saw perhaps the most beautiful part of the trip. It had begun to snow lightly, though the sun was out, and I spotted a rainbow! It arced over the volcano is a perfect half circle. It was a moment that I will never forget. A perfect moment. The ends of the rainbow were even visible. How many people can say that they've seen the bottom of a rainbow? I wish I could've gotten a picture, but it wouldn't have done it justice.
That night, we went out for a quick dinner and got on the night bus back to Santiago at 9:45PM. Let's just say, it wouldn't have mattered if I were 7 feet tall. It was a wonderful sleep on the bus. Pucón is an absolutely breath-taking part of Chile and I experienced many new things there. It was a great, full, tiring weekend.
One of the waterfalls
Another waterfall
View from the lake
On the volcano!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Five Pages of A Telenovela
Hola todos,
A moment ago, I finished writing my first real paper since I have been here. As in, more than one page typed about what it's like being an international student. How many pages you ask? 5!! And it took me.. about 5 hours (including breaks). So, an hour a page basically. Isn't that so sorry? In the U.S. in school I could write a 5 page paper in 2 hours. Tops. I didn't think it would be much worse writing it in Spanish, I mean if I know the material it shouldn't matter. Right? Wrong! It'd say a good hour of that was using Google Translate and racking my brain for useful knowledge.
Now, the way I have described it thus far, you are probably thinking that I am writing a paper on mechanical engineering. I am actually writing the paper on the way historical and evolutionary processes have affected the art of Latin America. This means, technology and mass media. Because I am not opinioned enough on this topic, let alone in Spanish, I decided to just agree with the author... with whatever he was saying. He thought that these advancements were bad and had a bad effect on the world. Well, I figured a perfect example would be, telenovelas. I know some, if not all, of you have seen a part of a telenovela on Univision (the one and only with the world famous, ¡Sabado Gigante! (Gigantic Saturday)) where the woman wearing too much make-up is yelling at, or kissing someone, most likely both being followed by a slap. Anyway, these shows are not the best acting and do not portray the Latin Americans in the best light. I mean, there is always a man discovering he has a secret child. I went on to write about this and how, because of these telenovelas, people are going to begin to think that it is completely normal to have a secret child here in Latin America.
That was what I wrote my paper on. And looking at this description right now, it doesn't seem to horribly difficult, but, 5 pages about the problem with telenovelas and mass media of today? I could probably say that I could have been doing better, more interesting things instead of this essay.
Interested in finding out more about why telenovelas are an absolutely horrible influence on today's culture? Tune in on Univision or Telemundo on channels 8 and 12, respectively. (With regular cable)
A moment ago, I finished writing my first real paper since I have been here. As in, more than one page typed about what it's like being an international student. How many pages you ask? 5!! And it took me.. about 5 hours (including breaks). So, an hour a page basically. Isn't that so sorry? In the U.S. in school I could write a 5 page paper in 2 hours. Tops. I didn't think it would be much worse writing it in Spanish, I mean if I know the material it shouldn't matter. Right? Wrong! It'd say a good hour of that was using Google Translate and racking my brain for useful knowledge.
Now, the way I have described it thus far, you are probably thinking that I am writing a paper on mechanical engineering. I am actually writing the paper on the way historical and evolutionary processes have affected the art of Latin America. This means, technology and mass media. Because I am not opinioned enough on this topic, let alone in Spanish, I decided to just agree with the author... with whatever he was saying. He thought that these advancements were bad and had a bad effect on the world. Well, I figured a perfect example would be, telenovelas. I know some, if not all, of you have seen a part of a telenovela on Univision (the one and only with the world famous, ¡Sabado Gigante! (Gigantic Saturday)) where the woman wearing too much make-up is yelling at, or kissing someone, most likely both being followed by a slap. Anyway, these shows are not the best acting and do not portray the Latin Americans in the best light. I mean, there is always a man discovering he has a secret child. I went on to write about this and how, because of these telenovelas, people are going to begin to think that it is completely normal to have a secret child here in Latin America.
That was what I wrote my paper on. And looking at this description right now, it doesn't seem to horribly difficult, but, 5 pages about the problem with telenovelas and mass media of today? I could probably say that I could have been doing better, more interesting things instead of this essay.
Interested in finding out more about why telenovelas are an absolutely horrible influence on today's culture? Tune in on Univision or Telemundo on channels 8 and 12, respectively. (With regular cable)
Monday, May 6, 2013
The Best Sales Pitch I've Ever Gotten
Hola todos,
Yesterday, I went to an artisanal market called Los Dominicos. They have a lot of cultural things such as jewelry, clothing, art, pottery, etc. I wanted to buy some things and figured it would be a great place to buy some Chilean things.
In Chile, they have a lot of lithium mines, and copper mines. The lithium has nothing to do with the market, just a side note. As I walked around, I noticed all the copper. It was all so beautiful. I never realized how much I love copper. It is a gorgeous color, and not to toot my own horn, but it looks very nice with my complexion.
I went to a few jewelry "shops" and bought some earrings, bracelets, and a ring. This one place I went to, where I bought this gorgeous copper ring, that I'm wearing right now, I talked to the owner about copper. He told me that copper is good for your health. I'm sure you're thinking, yeah right. I was too. But then, he took out several articles about how wearing copper helps fights bacteria and other reasons. The reason why, I am not sure. He told me he was wearing copper socks, (as in a thin layer of copper on the bottom). I thought it was strange that wearing earrings would make a difference, but I guess the contact the body has with it, absorbs some of it?
After hearing all of this, I thought to myself, well jeez. It would be stupid if I didn't buy some copper and wear it. I ended up buying a ring and a pair of earrings. I now feel that I should wear some piece of copper on me at all times. I'm thinking the ring makes the most sense. Who knows, maybe I'll never get sick again.
Is that not the most persuasive proof a sales man could ever have?
Here's article about copper and it's effects on the body:
http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/minerals/health-benefits-of-copper.html
Yesterday, I went to an artisanal market called Los Dominicos. They have a lot of cultural things such as jewelry, clothing, art, pottery, etc. I wanted to buy some things and figured it would be a great place to buy some Chilean things.
In Chile, they have a lot of lithium mines, and copper mines. The lithium has nothing to do with the market, just a side note. As I walked around, I noticed all the copper. It was all so beautiful. I never realized how much I love copper. It is a gorgeous color, and not to toot my own horn, but it looks very nice with my complexion.
I went to a few jewelry "shops" and bought some earrings, bracelets, and a ring. This one place I went to, where I bought this gorgeous copper ring, that I'm wearing right now, I talked to the owner about copper. He told me that copper is good for your health. I'm sure you're thinking, yeah right. I was too. But then, he took out several articles about how wearing copper helps fights bacteria and other reasons. The reason why, I am not sure. He told me he was wearing copper socks, (as in a thin layer of copper on the bottom). I thought it was strange that wearing earrings would make a difference, but I guess the contact the body has with it, absorbs some of it?
After hearing all of this, I thought to myself, well jeez. It would be stupid if I didn't buy some copper and wear it. I ended up buying a ring and a pair of earrings. I now feel that I should wear some piece of copper on me at all times. I'm thinking the ring makes the most sense. Who knows, maybe I'll never get sick again.
Is that not the most persuasive proof a sales man could ever have?
Here's article about copper and it's effects on the body:
http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/minerals/health-benefits-of-copper.html
Isla Negra, The Home of Pablo Neruda
Hola todos,
On Saturday, I went to Isla Negra, which is a town on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. This town is known for Pablo Neruda's house.
On Friday night, one of my friends said how she was going on a school field trip to Isla Negra to see Pablo Neruda's house, and the museum/house of Vicente Huidobro, another well known author. I'm not in the class, but the professor told the class that they were welcome to invite anyone because there was enough space on the bus. I figured, it would be interesting to see and wasn't sure if I'd make it down there soon, plus, it was a free trip.
We all met at 9:00 and made it to Isla Negra at around 11:00. When we got there, we went straight to Pablo Neruda's house. Oh my goodness. It is absolutely breath-taking. It is a beautiful house; even more incredible is the view. It is maybe 100ft from the ocean, and through the gigantic windows in the rooms, you can see the waves crashing onto the rocks, and the endless ocean.
My friend stated that it would be great to live there, but she's not poetic enough to really write about it. To that I said, "are you kidding? This view makes you poetic! Just living here and looking at the view, poetry will just flow out." This of course, is in no way discrediting Neruda.
Afterwards, we walked to the beach and took a nice long walk on the sand. It was quite warm, and a clear sky. A fabulous walk. We paused half way to eat our packed lunches, and then continued on. A girl and I climbed to the top of a rock summit, where we could see the surrounding towns and the horizon: an endless blue.
We then got on the bus and continued to the neighboring town called Cartagena. There we saw the museum/house of Huidobro. This author was interesting as well; apparently he and Neruda did not like each other, understandably. Afterwards, we returned back to Santiago at around 7:30.
It was a spectacular trip and the highlight was definitely seeing Neruda's house. I am so happy I was able to see where this famous poet lived. As well as the beautiful surrounding area.
Below are some pictures.
On Saturday, I went to Isla Negra, which is a town on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. This town is known for Pablo Neruda's house.
On Friday night, one of my friends said how she was going on a school field trip to Isla Negra to see Pablo Neruda's house, and the museum/house of Vicente Huidobro, another well known author. I'm not in the class, but the professor told the class that they were welcome to invite anyone because there was enough space on the bus. I figured, it would be interesting to see and wasn't sure if I'd make it down there soon, plus, it was a free trip.
We all met at 9:00 and made it to Isla Negra at around 11:00. When we got there, we went straight to Pablo Neruda's house. Oh my goodness. It is absolutely breath-taking. It is a beautiful house; even more incredible is the view. It is maybe 100ft from the ocean, and through the gigantic windows in the rooms, you can see the waves crashing onto the rocks, and the endless ocean.
My friend stated that it would be great to live there, but she's not poetic enough to really write about it. To that I said, "are you kidding? This view makes you poetic! Just living here and looking at the view, poetry will just flow out." This of course, is in no way discrediting Neruda.
Afterwards, we walked to the beach and took a nice long walk on the sand. It was quite warm, and a clear sky. A fabulous walk. We paused half way to eat our packed lunches, and then continued on. A girl and I climbed to the top of a rock summit, where we could see the surrounding towns and the horizon: an endless blue.
We then got on the bus and continued to the neighboring town called Cartagena. There we saw the museum/house of Huidobro. This author was interesting as well; apparently he and Neruda did not like each other, understandably. Afterwards, we returned back to Santiago at around 7:30.
It was a spectacular trip and the highlight was definitely seeing Neruda's house. I am so happy I was able to see where this famous poet lived. As well as the beautiful surrounding area.
Below are some pictures.
 |
| Neruda's house |
 |
| A view of the ocean outside his house |
 |
| Another view outside his house |
 |
| At the beach during our walk |
 |
| The rocks on the edge of the beach |
 |
| A view of the ocean and the neighboring town, Cartagena |
Sunday, May 5, 2013
ChilEspañol
Hola todos,
The most recent word I have created (I create a lot of words in both Spanish and English) is ChilEspañol. (Chile Español). This word means, obviously, the Spanish spoken here in Chile. However, every other country doesn't get its own word representing their Spanish because they don't need one. Every other country speaks just plain old Spanish. Chile's Spanish is unique, full of slang, and horrible (both grammatically, pronunciation and for learning it).
All of that is old news. You all know how I feel about ChilEspañol. However, I have become a hypocrite, ironically. This is because, I have started speaking more chilena! As in, I have dropped my "s" on words such as, "mas o menos" (more or less) (Yep. The phrase I disliked the most to be shortened), "por lo menos" (at least), "Dios mio" (oh my God), "Estados Unidos" (The U.S.) and "gracias" (Thank you). All of those words, I have dropped the ending "s".
The word the chileans use the most here is, "Cachai" (this is a slang word for, understand, got it?) For example, "3x3 is 9. Cachai?" To this, one would respond. "Cacho" meaning, "I understand." At first I found this word annoying because I think chileans could survive on this word. If one listened to a chilean, all they would here is "cachai?" Now, all of the "cachai-ing" has rubbed off on me. Cachai?
I am hoping that when I return to the U.S. the ChilEspañol will disappear and go back to grammatically correct, proper Spanish. But for now, carpe el dia chileno! (a spin off of Carpe Diem, seize the chilean day!)
The most recent word I have created (I create a lot of words in both Spanish and English) is ChilEspañol. (Chile Español). This word means, obviously, the Spanish spoken here in Chile. However, every other country doesn't get its own word representing their Spanish because they don't need one. Every other country speaks just plain old Spanish. Chile's Spanish is unique, full of slang, and horrible (both grammatically, pronunciation and for learning it).
All of that is old news. You all know how I feel about ChilEspañol. However, I have become a hypocrite, ironically. This is because, I have started speaking more chilena! As in, I have dropped my "s" on words such as, "mas o menos" (more or less) (Yep. The phrase I disliked the most to be shortened), "por lo menos" (at least), "Dios mio" (oh my God), "Estados Unidos" (The U.S.) and "gracias" (Thank you). All of those words, I have dropped the ending "s".
The word the chileans use the most here is, "Cachai" (this is a slang word for, understand, got it?) For example, "3x3 is 9. Cachai?" To this, one would respond. "Cacho" meaning, "I understand." At first I found this word annoying because I think chileans could survive on this word. If one listened to a chilean, all they would here is "cachai?" Now, all of the "cachai-ing" has rubbed off on me. Cachai?
I am hoping that when I return to the U.S. the ChilEspañol will disappear and go back to grammatically correct, proper Spanish. But for now, carpe el dia chileno! (a spin off of Carpe Diem, seize the chilean day!)
Friday, May 3, 2013
Rain Does Wonders For Santiago
Hola todos,
Towards the evening, it started to actually rain, not pour, just rain. And it was very nice to see and hear. This morning, though it was and still is cloudy, the city smells and looks fresher. All the plants are sufficiently watered, and everything is cleansed.
The most beautiful thing however, is the Andes mountains in the background of the city. Because the mountains are much higher in altitude and therefore the weather up there is colder, it snowed over the mountains! This morning, I went for a walk, and the mountains look beautiful. In one big row, they are all snow-capped and look more defined in the city. An absolutely spectacular sight.
I'll take some pictures.
Towards the evening, it started to actually rain, not pour, just rain. And it was very nice to see and hear. This morning, though it was and still is cloudy, the city smells and looks fresher. All the plants are sufficiently watered, and everything is cleansed.
The most beautiful thing however, is the Andes mountains in the background of the city. Because the mountains are much higher in altitude and therefore the weather up there is colder, it snowed over the mountains! This morning, I went for a walk, and the mountains look beautiful. In one big row, they are all snow-capped and look more defined in the city. An absolutely spectacular sight.
I'll take some pictures.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
My Best Friend's Birthday
Hola todos,
This has absolutely nothing to do with my trip to Chile at all, but I would like everyone to know that it's my best friend's, Tim Simmons, birthday!
We are friends from college, and I can definitely say that he has been been closest friend thus far in my SUNY Albany experience.
Happy birthday Timothy Simmons!!!!!
This has absolutely nothing to do with my trip to Chile at all, but I would like everyone to know that it's my best friend's, Tim Simmons, birthday!
We are friends from college, and I can definitely say that he has been been closest friend thus far in my SUNY Albany experience.
Happy birthday Timothy Simmons!!!!!
I Have Become a Girl Again
Hola todos,
I know it has only been one week (and one day) since my transformation-into-a-man haircut, but the haircut has actually become feminine and quite flattering. The bangs are still not completely grown out and still at an awkward length, but it's now apparent that I am a girl.
People have even complemented me on my haircut (as if I had it cut like this on purpose). And even more, I haven't been fishing for compliments, mostly just hiding in the shadows. But, people have said that the haircut really flatters my face, and it's a great style for me. Me being pessimistic, I assumed they were mocking or humoring me. But I don't think they actually are!
Quite an exciting event, knowing that people are not recognizing me not as a colonial Dutch boy anymore, but as a colonial Dutch girl.
I know it has only been one week (and one day) since my transformation-into-a-man haircut, but the haircut has actually become feminine and quite flattering. The bangs are still not completely grown out and still at an awkward length, but it's now apparent that I am a girl.
People have even complemented me on my haircut (as if I had it cut like this on purpose). And even more, I haven't been fishing for compliments, mostly just hiding in the shadows. But, people have said that the haircut really flatters my face, and it's a great style for me. Me being pessimistic, I assumed they were mocking or humoring me. But I don't think they actually are!
Quite an exciting event, knowing that people are not recognizing me not as a colonial Dutch boy anymore, but as a colonial Dutch girl.
The First Rainfall of The Season
Hola todos,
Today, we had out first rainfall. It was from about 4:15 to 6:00. It was actually quite exciting. Mind you, I haven't seen water (not snow) droplets falling from the sky in about 7 months. It was so strange though because we have hardly had any cloudy days let alone rainy "days". It was funny though because the Chileans were acting as if a hurricane were coming. As in, a ton of people are suddenly selling umbrellas on the street, people using umbrellas, rain boots etc. It was drizzling. I can't imagine what it would be like if it were snowing. Evacuation of the city maybe.
Regardless, it was exciting to see rain because it has been so long. I guess the Chileans felt the same way. I think it may rain (for an hour) tomorrow as well.
Today, we had out first rainfall. It was from about 4:15 to 6:00. It was actually quite exciting. Mind you, I haven't seen water (not snow) droplets falling from the sky in about 7 months. It was so strange though because we have hardly had any cloudy days let alone rainy "days". It was funny though because the Chileans were acting as if a hurricane were coming. As in, a ton of people are suddenly selling umbrellas on the street, people using umbrellas, rain boots etc. It was drizzling. I can't imagine what it would be like if it were snowing. Evacuation of the city maybe.
Regardless, it was exciting to see rain because it has been so long. I guess the Chileans felt the same way. I think it may rain (for an hour) tomorrow as well.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
My First Chilean Tremor
Hola todos,
This morning at around 7AM, I experienced my first tremor in Chile. Shockingly, it woke me up. (I am a very deep sleeper.) I woke up and sat up, and my bed was shaking side to side. Not drastically, but it was still noticeable. Of course, in my tired state, I thought to myself, "oh great. This is the introduction to a ridiculous earthquake. Great." But, it was just a few seconds of the movement then nothing else. Apparently there are a handful of tremors each year.
When my mom came to Chile with me, she thought there was a tremor about every 5 minutes. As in, a truck went by and shook the ground, "I think I just felt a tremor" type thing. To this I said, "Ok, there are a handful of tremors each year, and they all occurred in the past week? Somehow doubtful."
For this reason, when I felt the tremor I laughed to myself and wished she had been here to actually experience a Chilean tremor. I'm not sure if it's any different from an American tremor. But it's still interesting to have felt one.
This morning at around 7AM, I experienced my first tremor in Chile. Shockingly, it woke me up. (I am a very deep sleeper.) I woke up and sat up, and my bed was shaking side to side. Not drastically, but it was still noticeable. Of course, in my tired state, I thought to myself, "oh great. This is the introduction to a ridiculous earthquake. Great." But, it was just a few seconds of the movement then nothing else. Apparently there are a handful of tremors each year.
When my mom came to Chile with me, she thought there was a tremor about every 5 minutes. As in, a truck went by and shook the ground, "I think I just felt a tremor" type thing. To this I said, "Ok, there are a handful of tremors each year, and they all occurred in the past week? Somehow doubtful."
For this reason, when I felt the tremor I laughed to myself and wished she had been here to actually experience a Chilean tremor. I'm not sure if it's any different from an American tremor. But it's still interesting to have felt one.
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