Another climb...and then Argentina

JG: Whirlwind week - climbed Villarrica in Pucón, Chile last weekend - turned out to be a steeper climb (about 1200m total) than in Bolivia, but without the altitude issues and not quite as cold. Still pretty demanding as it's 5 hours of zig-zag trekking wearing crampons and hauling all your gear in a backpack. Oh - and we did a 4-hr bike ride of Pucón spanning 25 miles (40km) the day before so we were feeling it the following morning. We vowed (again) no more climbing for the duration of the trip! 

Made our way into Argentina thereafter - Bariloche specifically. The weather started to turn on us, though (approaching winter), and we didn't get to enjoy the city as much as we'd have liked. Stayed two nights and decided to head to Mendoza and wine country. Looking forward to some city and vineyard touring the next couple of days before moving on to Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian border, then Buenos Aires after that. Should be in Europe by mid-month!

SS: So - funny story...

John and I are touring the town of Mendoza and think to ourselves, we're hungry but don't want to sit down for a long lunch. Before we know it we come across a Subway - perfect, right? As we are standing in line salivating over what we are going to order we come to the disappointing realization that ordering the bread, length, toasted or not, type of cheese, individual veggies and sauce (forget the cookie) is a near impossible endeavor in the Argentina hybrid, half-word Spanish. So half way in line, we left. *#@$.... I mean shucks. 

What is wrong with us and climbing mountains? Although we did rationalize this one since technically it was a volcano....perfect logic. 

Although, so amazing! Volcano Villarrica is one of South Americans most active volcanos. As we peered into the open mouth top it was steaming away and with a better angle you can actually see the molten lava that lays within. Super cool! 

Bariloche is so beautiful - although we could hardly see it through the freezing rain. Definitely a destination that we will have to return to in summer months to truly enjoy this region. 

Mendoza - known as the Melbec capital of the world. This place is heaven! Daily bike tours of multiple wine tasting vineyards all included with a tour, and of course tasting, of a chocolate factory!! What more could a girl ask for? Oh, I know...thermal bath spa. Complete!!