Museum-going, and swimming!

Not too much time to write today. I've been working on figuring out my schedule and writing e-mails before another weekend without internet, but I've been having lots of fun, too.

Yesterday I spent the morning studying and went to the Museum of Precolombian Art in the afternoon. It was my first visit to the heart of Santiago and there was so much to see! The very centermost streets are pedestrian-only, with lots of shops, restaurants and street performers. They even have muzak piped in on speakers lining the streets! It was fun to walk to the museum to the sound of the Love Unlimited Orchestra.

The museum itself was awesome. We saw lots of pottery, statues, and textiles from indigenous groups throughout Latin America. The quality and craftsmanship of the items was incredible. We also went to a special exhibit on hats made by indigenous people-- to indicate status, for war, or for everyday life. It was very interesting and we got to see intricate hats made out of animal skins, feathers, llama wool, and other materials. The museum was free so it was a great trip!

Last night I saw TranSantiago at its worst-- lines to get into the subway, buses that hardly moved in the traffic. At least no one threw any punches-- I did experience a fight on a crowded bus last week. I got home late and hung out with my mom and host sisters. They are hilarious and it was fun to help them with my sister's English homework.

Today I finally went to the gym to get a membership and got to go swimming. The Club Providencia is just a short walk away from the center, and has a great pool, cardio room, and even a whirlpool and saunas. It felt so good to be able to swim again even though the pool was filled with mostly old people.

Tonight we have a special Cole Porter concert at the Ritz Carlton. I can't wait for good music, good food and good drinks. Tomorrow we're taking a trip to Isla Negra to see another house of Pablo Neruda, and I think I'll spend the rest of the weekend in Santiago finally figuring out which classes I'm taking and planning out my trips. I just booked tickets to Buenos Aires today!