Vancouver - Dallas - Santiago

When is Canadanot Canada not the US but apperently the US?
This isn't a trick question. It never ceases to amaze me that 200 steps from the check in counter at Vancouver International airport is a big sign that says " Welcome to the United States of America". Go figure.   Even thenews stand has a ratio of 1 / 8 Canadian toAmerican newspapers.
After a long day in transit here we sit. It's 3:55 am back home. We've just finished a sparce breakfast made just a little less appetizing because our position on the plane gives us full view of business class and their perks.
Outside the window is a stunning view of the Andes. Bright sun on snow capped peaks. Not a lot of trees.... mostly scrub brush.
Touch down in 20 minutes.
Touch down & track time. Fast tack through customs.... woops.... back to pay entrance fee... woops... wrong line up so try again and then back to customs. Long lineup but successful. Finding the bags with lots of carousels & no flight numbers is a challenge. Then, of curse, changingmoney and spending the next 20 min. trying to fugure out how badly we got ripped off. Used up our last 2 travellers cheques... won't be using thm again.
Chile -touch downin the country 1 1/2 hurs after landing. Sunny , warm, friendly. The shuttle bus worked and the Pension was OK... but not to be repeated. This could also be said for the wine of choice for day one. Don't go out of your way to buy Los Robles Excellencia (cabernet sauvignon 2006). OK... but not to be repeated.
We wandered arund the downtown, found the fish market & ate Chure del Locos. Sort of like tuna casserole without the noodles. It was, however, well disguised abelone.
We just walked, enjoyed the parks, enjoyed the people and made reservations for a little better pension on our return here December 2.  
Nov. 6th... Quito