Flying south, Spanish improving.

I’ve been in Santiago for a day now and I was lucky enough to be put in touch with the brother of a friend of a friend who kindly showed me around a bit last night. I’ve learned a lot about Santiago and I can say I’m sorry to be leaving so soon. I am excited to get to the mountains though. Snow capped peaks tower over Santiago and are always in view. They have gotten me excited for my flight to Coyhaique this evening.

My Spanish is definitely getting better. This is encouraging since it’s only been a few days. Each time I have a successful interaction I’m inspired to learn more.

I’ve always been fascinated when I travel to see travelers from non English-speaking countries commuicate in a mutual language (usually English). I’m finding myself in that position now because a lot of the travelers I’ve met speak little or no English. Our mutual language is Spanish.

I had dinner the other night with a French couple who had been traveling South America for about 4 months now. Their English was good, but for the sake of my learning we decided to speak in Spanish and I was surprised that I was able to get by (though clumsily). It was hard, but encouraging. Oh, and I now have friends in Bordeaux.