Patagonia

We traveled to Patagonia from 12/21-1/31/18 With Tauck they are a little higher end group but this is likely a once in a lifetime trip. Flew into Santiago and missed the Viva expat by days. Walked around town a few hours then off to meet the group. It was only 24 people mostly Jews as it was over the Christmas period but we did have an ex nun who was beyond lovely. Stayed at the Singular Santiago which is very nice , the only problem was we left the next day so if you go with a tour try and build in at least 1 extra day, generally the tour group can get you a good rate. The Chile side of Patagonia was great and the wine was better, Torres del Paine Park, Punta Arenas, were beautiful. Stayed at one of the nicest hotels we never stayed in Singular Patagonia (tour came with a free 1/2 hour massage) the boat ride to see the glaciers was awesome and at one point there was a hike to see condors then we drove into Argentina, the crossing takes awhile but the tour guide handles everything so no worries. As great as Chile was , Argentina was better, stayed in El Calafante (bad hotel bu there aren't many) but the hike to the glacier was tough if you aren't in the best shape is a must. Also in town ICE BAR where everything and I mean everything is made of ice even the seats. Los Glaciares Park requires a pretty steep hike NO SNEAKERS but the views were great, Glacier Moreno was the first hike I mentioned was a 3 of 5 the latter easy a 4. Then up to Buenos Aires and walk around the city and an excusion out of town to see a silversmith and gaucho show. Be advised if you do this tour with Tauck you will gain 10 pounds easy in 8 days, the food was great and pleanty of it. I will ask my Viva friend to the north if he minds posting some pictures for me