The ‘Valley of Paradise’
Valparaiso, whose name translates to ‘Valley of Paradise’, rests on undulating hills that beg to share its story of prosperity, economic devastation and near destruction from numerous earthquakes over the centuries. Still vulnerable… and on shaky ground, it snuggles up to the Pacific Ocean approximately 75 miles northwest of Santiago. The area thrived due to its perfect location for a city port, however, that all changed with the building of the Panama Canal. Today, ships can still be found in its harbor. Visitors drawn to the city discover the stand-alone beauty and inviting street art that punctuates the hillsides. Beaches, parks and museums are also available to inquisitive tourists. This was a perfect day trip, but you wouldn’t be disappointed with a 2-3 day stay to get better acquainted.
Si, those are fixings for three Vegan tacos! Porque No?, my favorite restaurant, has found its match! We discovered Boreal Vegan Restaurant while weaving through Valparaiso’s hillside. Our meal was so delicious that we asked the cook to make an appearance for a round of applause.
When ships ran aground or became unserviceable, much of the ‘Oregon’ pine was stripped and repurposed for window framings and doors. This is one of many examples seen on the facades of homes and businesses.
