Where in the world is Lani?

Bariloche in southern Argentina is the most beautiful place I have ever visited.

Truly amazing. Its situated on Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi in southern Argentina, the lakes district or Patagonia. The weather here is my favourite kind - crystal blue skies, cool air and a slight breeze. Its gets cool enough at night so you can snuggle up under a massive doona, and its a great excuse to wear cute beanies & scarves and go for hot chocolate in the afternoon.

I arrived from Mendoza yesterday on a 20 hour bus trip, which wasnt too bad as I had amazing scenery to look at for the last 5 or so hours. A myriad of bright blue lakes and snow capped mountains!

I have met 2 new friends that hail from London (Dave & Louise) and we met for dinner last night in a cute little restaurant called El Alpine which is themed up like an Austrian lodge. We dined on the local specialities - I had trucha con límon (trout with lemon), and the other guys had steak and smoked salmon ravioli which was amazing! The local beer here is Alpine which is crisp and clear, I guess just like the Alpine water running from the mountains.

This afternoon I had a terrific time wandering the area, finding unexpected sites like a grand old cathedral, a small & friendly handmade chocolate shoppe and a nice cappucino. For lunch I went to the local produce store and tried a few local treats - fresh bread from the baker, cheese & smoked tomato chutney, salami & red wine from Bariloche. I took it all up to the highest hill I could find and enjoyed a picnic overlooking the snow peaked mountains in the distance. One of the most favourite moments in my entire life.

I have a few days here to explore the lake and the activities in the mountains so i´m glad I bought my beanie and thermals!

Until next time,

Ciao from high altitudes

Lani