Cold, Rain, and Snow

The beautiful city of Punta Arenas sits on the western end of the Strait of Magellan.  Much of the neoclassical architecture is a direct result of some the 19th century's  wealthy sheep ranching dynasties like the Braun and Menendez families. 
The downtown is exceptionally clean, and I was told by several people  it was due to the unrelenting high winds. 
It simply sweeps the streets pristine! 
Being at the bottom of the world makes everything look distinct.  The sun never really got very high while we were there.  That, combined with the crisp cold, made everything awash in high contrast with grey shadows in glaring golden sunlight.

The monument to Ferdinand Magellan in the main plaza.  Kissing the foot of the Mapuche man guarantees your return...so the myth goes.

Hotel Jose Nogueira (above).  We had a drink in the subterranean pub, which resembled a cave.

Kiosco Roca!  One of our best meals in P.A. (besides the giant centolla spider crabs and lamb) was at this little dive that makes hot homemade chorizo sandwiches on just-baked pan amasado, with or without cheese. A masterpiece in its simplicity.

It sounds odd, but it goes perfectly with their homemade banana milk!

This place gets swamped at lunch time. Students and workers crowd around the counter, a sea of dark heavy coats with upturned collars. There's no sign or marker, so ask a local to point you in the right direction along Calle Roca.

Choriqueso!