Today was another day spent mainly on logistics. It started early, just five and a quarter hours into 2015 with a wake-up for the airport. From SCL, we flew south about an hour to Temuco and then were shuttled by van to the touristy town of Pucón, which is encased by nice mountain lakes and a stunning snow-covered volcano. We were advised that our luck was strong, as the region had been under heavy rains for the last three days, with the weather only breaking overnight on New Year's. Apparently 2015 is to be The Year of the Puddle in the Sun. |
After signing the final paperwork, the crew took us for a little loop ride, with a halfway coffee stop by the beach. It was under the premise of familiarizing ourselves with the machines, but I've no doubt that it was equally purposed to let the leaders have their first look at each of us in the saddle, too. Everybody seemed to behave, so it was uneventful, but this is sure a different kind of trip from a long-haul solo journey.
Chile continues to be very scenic and very civilized. I can't help but have this feeling that another shoe is yet to drop, but we'll see. We've been warned that Argentina is comparatively dodgy, due to the current economic climate, yet still quite secure.
NB1 - Photos will be sparse, as internet connectivity seems to be a function of the birds flying overhead.
NB2 - SPOT also is yet to link up to the sky.
NB3 - Even with internet solved, photos may be sparse nonetheless. It remains to be seen how many opportunities there will be between the confines of group riding and roads without shoulders.
Day total: 42 km, 2h20m by motorcycle Trip total: 42 km | Start: Pucón, Chile. End: Pucón, Chile. Soundtrack: Airport announcements and group tour briefings. |