The Valdivian Coastal Reserve (Reserva Costera Valdiviana)

In early February (South American Summer), Jesse, Gill and I regrouped in Valdivia, Chile. Prior to setting off on our journey, we had set up a stint of time to volunteer at the Valdivian Coastal Reserve (owned and operated by the Nature Conservancy). Each of us came stumbling in like refugees, worn and weary. At that point we were no longer a group, but instead three individuals seasoned by the same long road.

Everyone faces the same initial challenge when arriving in Chile: Chilean Spanish. It is impossible. A German chap named Johannes had thankfully been there for some time, and would coach me in their dialect and slang. In time, I was able to once more get the butter passed and make jokes (however terrible they may have been). Regardless of whether or not they understood us, the Reserve Team welcomed us whole-heartily.

The work was incredibly refreshing. My soul drank heartily from the experience. Getting out into the dunes overlooking the ocean was like going to church. There were penguins, sea-lions, puma, dolphins, and every sort of bird you could ever think of. The waters were rich with life. The beer quenched thirst unlike anything after a long day of work. The Honey was creamier and richer than any I have ever had. And the local culture is as thick as their wool.

I will never forget my time there, and promise to return one day. In the meantime, I hope that anyone reading this consider stopping by for a taste of the Congria, and a stroll among the ancient Alerce trees.

Un abrazo a Pepe, Patty, Pauli, Mauro y todos los Guarda Parques y Bomberos

-John Michael 12/19/08

Johannes, Alerce Forest

Camping out at one of the highest points on the Reserve, Alerce Forest

Cooking up some Carbonarra, Al Machete

Gillian, Don Omar, Yo. On a mission with sweet life jackets, Río Chaihuín

In the Dunes with Patty, Pauli and Mauro

After the multi-village soccer tournament. I was Goalie. We were Losers.

Patty, Mauro, Pauli, Yo. Amazing weekend.