Time was now limited and we had a few things to do before we left Santiago. One thing we'd deliberated over was the need to further downsize our backpacks before getting on the road. We'd obviously not been ruthless enough in Auckland so we identified a few items of clothing that were worthy of sending home. The Santiago Correo (post office) was very helpful - even with virtually no English - because M managed to explain exactly what was required. They provided a box, tape, labels, forms and the package was soon winging its way to the UK for a very reasonable price. We had to make a quick change of plan when we were told (in Spanish) that it would take only ten days - so, because Jim and Pam (who are our removals and storage managers) are on holiday, watch out Julie and Rob as you will be the lucky recipients of a smallish box from Chile. One of the key sights we'd been meaning to visit was Palacio Cousino. This is a wonderful example of opulent Chilean life from an earlier era. It is a beautiful building, filled with absolute treasures from around the world, constructed and collected by the Cousino family who at the time had more money that government of Chile. This was one of the places we have so far visited where we were able to benefit from a tour in English. Just on our doorstep in the Paris-Londres area is the oldest church in Santiago - San Francisco - and its adjacent monastery which is now a museum. The church, which dates back to 1618, is well worn and has signs of damage probably from the many earthquakes over the centuries, but has bags of character and from the number of local people visiting and praying is still very much in use. The museum has an amazing collection of religious art from South America and, if we were to be honest, if we understood it we would have been wowed. As it was it was still very impressive and the collection went from room to room to room...... and for a very modest entry fee. We were surprised to see as we were leaving that a didgeridoo player was tuning up in one of the corners of the cloisters. After two weeks of good Chilean food our British palates were after something to tickle the taste buds. M suggested a curry, but where could we get one in Santiago? An internet search threw up the one and only option in Chile and it was in Santiago. It was within walking distance and as we headed away from the busy central area we wondered whether we would find it. No need to worry as we approached we both sniffed the air to take in the wonderful aroma of an Indian restaurant. It was a little bit different from previous Indian meals across the world but nevertheless it was very tasty and enjoyable. Lots of love E & M xxx