While the U.S. markets experiences a near meltdown today, the hot town of Puerto Varas was partying... It's about 85 degrees here, with little wind, and the beaches on the Lago Llanquihue are packed with people. The icecream sellers are doing a brisk business, as are the fellows that rent kayaks and canoes. It's not hard to find out what the party is all about. The beach has amazing views of two snow-covered volcanos, and a front row seat to the sunset breaking on the Andes. True, the water is very cold, but anyone and everyone, from school kids to couples is enjoying the beginning of summer. Like Pucon, Puerto Varas is an adventure Mecca. The scenery here is a bit different. There's more trees for one - the city is surrounded by national forests, and the lake is much larger that Lago Villarica. Also the popular town of Puerto Montt is about 32 kms away, and that city opens onto a massive bay, giving tourists access to the beautiful and diverse Chiloe Island and the Pacific Ocean. But let's get back to the volcanos... No, I will not be climbing one this time. I paid my dues and have the blistered lips and hot-pink nose to proove it. But Puerto Varas has access to two volcanos, one being the impressive Osorno. Unlike Villarica, Osorno has mostly trees up to the snow line, which is much easier to climb. Can you guess why? You've got it... The last eruption at Osorno was back in 1869. Villarica? 2007. Anyway, Puerto Varas appears a bit more commercialized than Pucon, with more "modern" stores and architecture. While Pucon had the charming "chalet"-like architecture, Puerto Varas has the beaches... And access to the coast. Instead of climbing Osorno, I've opted for another popular tourist attraction: Canyoneering. I won't be able to take the camera with me on this trip, because we'll be jumping into rivers and pools of water. I'll send you all a review once I get back to my hostel.