Starting to feel a bit lost in Valparaiso. Why? It’s a strange and beautiful city. But to spend a month here alone might not have been such a wise choice. What’s so different from what I expected? I guess it’s not as welcoming as I had hoped. Or maybe I underestimated the language barrier. But mostly it doesn’t feel like a “city” to me. Santiago had a more comfortable feel.
But it’s been interesting. I’ve got a crazy neighbor who plays loud music and sings until 6AM. There’s a French couple on the first floor with a baby that screams and screams. The water in the apartment will sometimes stop entirely, then come back in a few minutes. I’ve tripped the circuit breaker here once already by using the oven and the hot plate at the same time. It’s exactly what you’d expect from a South American country.
I’m torn now as to what my next move should be. I’ve been thinking a lot about it, probably too much. I found an awesome short-term apartment in Buenos Aires but haven’t put down the down payment yet. Hesitation. Thinking of going back to Tokyo because I know so many people there. But have I given up on South America already?
I’m feeling that this trip lacks purpose. And without purpose, I’m just a tourist. Take a picture. Buy a postcard. Is that really why I’m here?
But with every new destination there’s new hope. That’s the excitement of the journey.