The immaculate tree-lined streets define the business district with its clean sidewalks and glass facade high-rises. The people move with a sense of urgency, giving the city a European look and feel. As one moves away from downtown, the scenery changes.
The downtown area is congested with small shops lining the narrow streets, and the graffiti is stark, and cleanliness has clearly taken a back seat. People move with urgency as they tackle the crowds in the packed Metros.
The Bellavista area at the steps of the St. Cristobal statue is lined with bars. The streets are narrow, and dirty with sidewalk cafes that have clearly encroached on to the sidewalks. The locals guzzle large bottles of beer.
We rode the funicular to the top of the mountain where the view is breathtaking — the Andes mountains watching over the urban sprawl of the city, nestled in its shadows. A massive statue of the Virgin Mary watches over the city in all its splendor.
I feel safe here. Few people speak English, but the friendly smiles and nonverbal cues are reassuring, and welcoming. “Watch out for the pickpockets” is the only warning we are encouraged to heed.
The group dines on steaks that closely resemble a small animal. I prefer the Chilean sea bass. We finish the day at an Irish pub sipping on local beer. My liver can’t keep up with the youngsters in the group. Time to catch some zzz’s.
Tomorrow will be a beautiful day in this lovely city.
About Hemant Rustogi