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Photographer’s Note

After crossing the lakes from Argentina to Chile, I had the choice of being dropped either in Puerto Varas or in Puerto Montt, so I opted for Puerto Varas so that I could check out the town for a couple of hours.

Puerto Varas is a small city of 30,000 in the shores of a lake with a beautiful view of Volcan Osorno. It was settled originally by Germans and it preserves some great examples of German architecture such as this church which is based on a Bavarian church although using local materials.

There are many subtle differences between Argentina and Chile due to their different economic performances. While Argentina used to be a wealthier country, it has been in decline for 40 years, while Chile has been growing for 20. It is easy to find signs of prosperity in Chile, you see signs of the growing middle class everywhere. (one in every 3 houses seems to have a private car), streets are clean and well kept, and there is a sense of order.

It is very expensive though as I found out when I looked for a place to eat. One big dish with pork, potatoes rice and eggs and no drink: 8 USD, and it was not an upscale place…….

Paolo, fabio_ts, gilbriones2002, fayeulle, pitai, don_narayan, Tue has marked this note useful

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Viewed: 2019
Points: 24
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Additional Photos by daniel barreto (rbcy1974) Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 2424 W: 149 N: 3491] (20742)
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