Day 1 - Up, Off and Away!

Up early for 7am departure from Adelaide - Sydney. 

Trouble checking in as Qantas couldn't find the international connection for me. After fifteen minutes and several phone calls to Qantas admin, finally sorted.

Very pleased with myself with checked in backpack weighing only 8.1kg. Met Jenny and Barb at Sydney International airport.

Smooth transfer for Sydney -Santiago sector. Flight 12 hours duration and with crossing the international dateline, you gain a day and arrive at the same time on the same day you depart!
Managed to snatch a few hours sleep. No problems with customs and immigration and met by our driver for the hotel transfer. Smog prevented a clear view, however the majestic Andes mountain range was still an awe-inspiring sight. Santiago, the capital of Chile is home to about 7 million people, about 40% of the total population. The metropolis is a mix of old and new architecture.  To reduce the effect of jetlag, we spent the afternoon walking and exploring the city centre, taking in a few sights including the Plaza De Armas.

Finished off the day with happy hour drinks at Bellavista sipping on the local favourite, a pisco sour.