Coquimbo

Located between the northern Atacama desert and the mineral-rich central valley, the city serves as capital of the Fourth Region of Coquimbo, while its palm-fringed beaches make a perfect gateway from busy Santiago, just 290 miles to the north.  Fed by three major rivers - the Elqui, the Choapa and the Limari - the area's land is ripe for agriculture, and its fruit is shipped throughout the country and elsewhere.  You can also sample the fourth Region's grapes in Pisco for Chile's national drink. This lush region also known for its silver and copper, was home to the Diaguitas people, who farmed here in pre-Columbian days.  Chile's second-oldest city, LaSerena's Spanish roots date to 1544, when it was established to facilitate communications with Peru both by sea and overland.

We had the best day!  We left the ship late, around 12:00.  No need to rush in as it's a very small city. We walked to the fish market, which was incredible.  There were several vendors, each selling fresh

fish and shellfish, caught that morning.  Every kind imaginable.  Along side the market were elephant seals being fed scraps of fish.

Several small restaurants along the waterfront and we decided to have a cup of coffee in one. We also had an order of fries, which neither of us have done since high school...we are both going to hell!!

                             The people here are just lovely.  After 2 days at sea, next stop Peru.