An Emerging Destination - The Lake Region

While soaring over Patagonia Green or Patagonia Virgin as they call it, the pilot circled this beast of a volcano called Puntiagudo. It's been dormant since 1869 but it's far more spectacle than anything you'll see in New Zealand and far cheaper to experience.

In fact, Southern Chile is no different than New Zealand for its dramatic appearances, hospitable climate, jagged glaciers and friendly service. It's one of the greatest emerging destinations in South America if not the world.

While flying overhead we also got to peer into the Valdivian Rainforest, the second largest temperate rainforest in the world with a short stop over in the small town of Hornopirén.

The views have been absolutely spectacular. The weather oscillates between 45-60 degrees. My crew stays busy sightseeing beautiful lakes and hallmark hotels.

Right now we are at an all-inclusive wellness and spa resort in the Puyehue National Park called Termas Puyehue. We are only 10 minutes from the border of Argentina. The park is covered by thick evergreen forests, endless riverbeds, thermal baths, flora, fauna, even ski resorts.

This magnificent hotel is in a valley with picture-perfect views of the volcanic terrain including Osorno. There is a network of paths and trails to hike, later followed up by several hot springs to relax in.



Last night, General Manager, Ivan Magdic shared some insight into the future of the hotel. Between now and the next 8 years, the owners are investing a whopping $200-$300 million building polo grounds, a bowling alley (the only one ever built inside a hotel), an 18-hole golf course, dressage, refurbishing all 131 rooms and adding 30 more.

"We can see ourselves just as popular as New Zealand in 5 years" said Magdic.

I can't imagine it taking that long once the word gets out about this spectacular area.