The hostel workaway and Isla Negra

There is much about this work exchange experience at the hostel that I have not enjoyed, but some people and things I have. I am only staying in Isla Negra for one week and will leave here Wednesday afternoon.

I have not minded the work, which is mostly cleaning and making beds, and have enjoyed cooking lunch in the afternoon and sometimes with another volunteer, Alberto who is from Argentina. 

The ocean is amazing wild and so beautiful but it is mostly very cold and windy here now. Also, this hostel is dirty and comes with 5 large dogs and dog hair everywhere. It has some positives but I can't get beyond the poor sanitation.   It's just not a good fit for me. It's like camping because it's dirty and cold most of the time.  Literally I have worn the same jeans, socks, 2 shirts, 2 jackets and my scarf every day for 5 days so far. I am NOT taking anything off until I get somewhere warm.

One of the great things about being here is that I met a wonderful volunteer who was only here two days but is still in Isla Negra. Liselotte is from Chile and is going to travel to India and Europe, beginning on Dec. 5th and speaks English and corrects my Spanish. It's been great to get to know her and walk places with her because she knows so many people here. 

Front hostel entryway with 2 of the 5 dogs.  They are cute and friendly but smelly...former street dogs.  So many stray dogs here....

On my walk along the beach and up to Pablo Neruda's former land called Cantalau.  Many streers are paved. Spring flowers are awesome! 

remember there's a fabulous coast here! 

Lis painting a wooden fish at an artist community. 

Last photo is the place outside where we wash dishes and the cats drink out of the rinse water bowls.