Last week Martin from Latin Routes was lucky enough to be invited to Expocom 2013 in Patagonia Chile, find out about his adventures.
Expocom is a showcase of Patagonia’s best hotels, attractions, tour companies and suppliers which is now in its 4th year. Organised by several government bodies from Chile my invitation came from Turismo Chile who essentially operate as the Chilean Tourist Board. The 6 day programme organised was designed to showcase the best things the region has to offer. So without hesitation I headed off on my long 32 hour journey to the end of the world!
The expo was held in Punta Arenas which many will only know as the gateway to the region. Most people normally by-pass the town to head off for the bigger attractions in Puerto Natales and the Torres Del Paine National Park. The town has an attractive square from which the town has grown into quite the cosmopolitan hub. A pleasant high street with shops, restaurants and the odd bar runs through town and you are never far from a view of the water. On the waterfront sat my hotel, the newly built Dreams Hotel, Casino & Spa. Superb views over the Strait of Magellan from both the rooms and the infinity edge pool in the spa make it a great place to spend a night or two.
On day 2 we headed off on a special 3 day mini cruise to Puerto Natales with Cruceros Australis. We continually receive excellent feedback from our clients about them and it’s so easy to see why. You get the best of all worlds, a smart and comfortable ship, superb food and service and then an expedition element thrown in with its fleet of zodiac boats and expedition leaders poised to get you up close to the beautiful landscape which the ship passes through. Not all pleasure though we had two long networking sessions where it felt like I met almost every supplier in the region! Invaluable education and some great contacts so stay tuned for future product developments!
After our arrival and welcome reception into Puerto Natales we were whisked round the towns many hotels before I found myself at my hotel – Remota Lodge. Located just outside of town this unique place was built with connecting to the landscape in mind. No TV’s or in-room Wi-Fi meant I had to go to the Spa and relax in the beautiful natural water infinity pool. I found my entertainment watching the beautiful sunset through the window! Stays here are normally full board with excursions to all of the surrounding areas included.
Of course the best was left till last – our full day trip to the Torres Del Paine National Park. The last time I visited, the park was shrouded in clouds and I still thought it was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. So imagine our absolute delight to find the sun beaming and blue skies everywhere. Our organiser told us it’s the best time he has ever seen the park! I think the evidence in the photo above speaks for itself!
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