My next stop along the way required a a flight to the south of Santiago to the lake region of Chile. Puerto Montt is the gateway to the lake region and a major centre for the production of salmon (a major aquaculture product of Chile). On arrival I was greeted by Hernan Canon from IFOP, a familiar face to those working at the Cefas laboratory (Hernan visited around one year ago and Cefas now has an agreement with IFOP to collaborate on research projects in the future).

Hernan dropped me at my hotel overlooking the water and, keen to explore, I trecked through the rain (apparently very common in these parts!) to the artesan village in Pt. Montt where it is possible to buy the local crafts and also the abundant marine produce of the region (esp. mussels, clams and of course the salmon). Much of the product is smoked on site, leading to amaxing aromas as you wander through the market. Mytilus species to be determined in case you are interested (target reference!).

Just have to mention the street dogs in Chile....very chilled and very friendly. The one in the picture reminded me of the Littlest Hobo and seemed to very much like having his picture taken...so much so that it followed me the mile or so back to my hotel and was still waiting outside the front doors about an hour later!! I told him to 'just keep movin' on'. He didn't understand my English so waited another hour.

Tomorrow I meet with Dr Carvjal, a pathologist at an institute of the Universidd Los Lagos ('University of the Lakes'), with further meetings through the week.

I'm off for seafood with Hernan now so keep your eye on developments and don't forget to give some comment if you see fit.

Hasta luego!

Grant
View from the hotel room in Pt. Montt (Andes foothils in distance). Before it started to rain!