Valparaiso is a city of astounding beauty and history. Located on the central coast of Chile, this major seaport was once the main harbor for the Chilean navy, and a required stopover for all ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific ocean during the second half of the 19th century. As a result of its strategic location, Valparaiso drew many European immigrants, who settled and transformed the city into what we see today. Vibrant, multi-colored, hillside homes covered the landscape, as we we headed to the two most famous hills, Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here, we found an array of hostels, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars lining the streets. You can easily detect the European influence mixed in with the native Chilean culture that gives this city a unique vibe. It is no wonder artists from all over the world flock to this port, once home to the famous poet, Pablo Neruda. Overall, we spent five enchanting days in what is known as "The Jewel of the Pacific" in a charming Bed and Breakfast called Allegretto. We filled our days with leisure walks exploring every nook and corner of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepcion. We dined at some of the city's best restaurants. We ate the famous "Machas a la Parmesana," and drank their exquisite Pisco Sour and local beer. We indulged, or rather overdosed, on their delicious ice cream, a type of Sundae called Copa Valparaiso. We rode one of the cities oldest "ascensores" (a type of funicular lift built in the 19th century). Until finally, we bid farewell to this beautiful gem, that reminded us much of San Francisco.
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