A Day in Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas ("Sandy Point") is located in the Magallanes region of Chile. Described by some as the "city at the end of the world," Punta Arenas traces its origin to a Chilean penal colony. Later, maritime activity and sheep farming became important for this port city. Tourism represents a big part of the city economy as Punta Arenas is the starting point for many Patagonia national park trips. 

About 130,000 people now live in this area of 7,000 square miles. During the summer, Punta Arenas experiences a sunrise at an early 5:30am and a sunset at 10pm. This makes for a dinnertime that seems to last late into the evening.

New Duffel

Today we spent our morning walking through the downtown area. We needed to purchase a replacement duffel as my checked-in bag was damaged during the last flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas. Apparently, a baggage handler or terminal machine grabbed the duffel by just the TSA lock. Both the zipper tabs and lock were pulled off the bag (the zipper tabs were not sturdy enough to handle 30+ pounds). As the bag no longer zipped closed, I needed a quick replacement. Luckily, there was a North Face shop in town - though the replacement bag was not inexpensive and an unintended trip souvenir.

During our day visit to Punta Arenas, we stopped at Museo Regional Braun-Menendez, This museum started out as the residence of Mauricio Braun and Josefina Menéndez, Braun was heavily involved with shipping in the region. Built between 1903 and 1906, the mansion reflects the Magallanes' gilded age. Later we walked through the Plaza de Armas and the Cementerio Municipal. Casual shopping carts lined the plaza for largely the pleasure of tourists. The cemetery was unlike any we've seen. The crypts were built layer upon layer, with ladders to the crypts on the highest levels. 

As to Punta Arenas dining suggestions, we enjoyed meals at La Luna, Jekus and Sotitos. As a word of caution, be sure to read your bill carefully. A service charge may have been automatically added to your bill. This occurred at Sotitos and the waiter continued to seek a higher tip. Only after leaving did we realize that we double tipped. 

Internet access may be somewhat limited over the next few days, so there may be some time before the next post.
   

Jekus Restaurant

Billard Room in Braun-Menendez Mansion