ZOMG! Kosmovista is officially live!
We are so excited to finally announce that today, Thursday, May 31st, as SpaceX returns home, Kosmovista takes flight! There is just soooooo much of the world to see and all we want to do is show you all the places that never even made it on to postcards!
The world is a thing of utter inordinate complexity and richness and strangeness that is absolutely awesome
This is a really exciting moment for us and I would like nothing more than to thank every single person who helped us get here. From giving feedback, to sharing ideas; from those who support us, to those who don’t. Especially them! Thanks for always being honest because you made us better, smarter and stronger.
And finally, and most importantly, I’d like to especially thank my amazing team for getting us to this starting point. João Valente, the tech lead, also often referred to by as “boss of bosses” and Zac Zorbas, the kick-ass traveling front end developer have been nothing short of fantastic. It’s awesome to say that this travel site has been worked on on three different continents and we can’t wait to add more of them in the future.
Stay tuned because this adventure is only just beginning. Go forth and travel!
Let us think the unthinkable, let us do the undoable, let us prepare to grapple with the ineffable itself, and see if we may not eff it after all.
Douglas Adams
Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency
We don’t have to save the world. The world is big enough to look after itself. What we have to be concerned about is whether or not the world we live in will be capable of sustaining us in it.
Douglas Adams
Speech at The University of California
We #Launch 31st of May. It’s time to fly.
Ladies and Gents,
It’s time.
It has been a long road, and not the easiest by any means.
But we never lost faith.
And now it’s time to jump or get pushed.
My name is Kunal Kalro and I am the founder of Kosmovista. Today we are extremely nervecited to announce that on May 31st 2012 we will take the step off the ledge, launch ourselves into the unknown and hope we learn to fly.
Flying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.
And what better day to announce our launch date than on international #towelday. Douglas Adams, inciter of travel lust in millions around the world, was a staunch advocate of environmental and conversational issues and he changed more lives than he ever could have imagined he would. It is a bit of serendipitous moment for today to be today. To me, it certainly seems like it was meant to be. I was a wee lad, when I first read “Last Chance to See” and it is the book that set me on the path of becoming the bleeding treehugger that I am.
And many years later, here I am, sitting in front of a computer screen trying to write the words that will define what the past year has been and how this milestone will define the next. We have some lofty goals, that’s for sure, but we are equally certain that we have what it takes to achieve them.
If more of us loved nature, the environment will take care of itself.
Our premise is simple. If there were more people in the world that loved nature, the environment would take care of itself. And so, we embark on this adventure to make more people love nature. We love it and we know that if more people would see, with their own two eyes, the places that made us love nature in the first place, then they would love it too. And along the way, we work with small communities and tour operators to aid community development through tourism.
Travel changes lives. And not just the lives of those who travel, but also the lives of those they meet with, talk to, eat with, drink with, fall in love with. And so, beginning on May 31st, we ask you to be part of something, and change your life and the lives of others for the better.
We want to make travel what it should have been from the start. And if that’s what it takes, we’ll take you to the ends of the earth, to save it!
The oddest little German restaurant in Valparaiso
Let’s start out by saying this place could never work in the U.S. It’s one of those places that you visit and realize, “holy cow. I’m a long way from home.” But that’s the beauty of traveling, isn’t it?
Hambergo restaurant in Plaza Anibal Pinto in Valparaiso is a unique experience. You’ll be wondering, “am I in Germany? Chile? Out at sea on a ship?” It’s all very confusing. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t visit this unique piece of German culture tucked away in the center of one of South America’s most fascinating cities.
When you walk in, you’ll first notice the random collection of “everything German” and “everything related to the Navy.” The German owner was a proud part of the Chilean Navy for most of his career. And he runs a tight ship in the restaurant, too. You’ll notice that the servers are a bit more attentive at this restaurant than at most laid-back Chilean establishments.
The food is rich, large, and of course, German. You’ll find a variety of fish and meats, and even one meat dish that is rolled with cheese and potato. In just a few bites, you’ll find yourself rolling over, full. Finish off with dessert and a cup of coffee. Their large coffees are brewed there, which is unique in a “Nescafe kinda” country.
As you’re eating, make sure to look carefully at the wall décor. And when you’re done, you should take a few moments to browse around. We won’t tell you everything, but here’s a sneak preview at the more interesting pieces—photos of Pinochet and German war relics.
Oh PS - pictures are allowed. And we recommend taking a few. Where else can you see this stuff?!
Heads up, Elqui
Ok, so after traveling through Chile, you’ve become a wine connoisseur. But how much do you really know about pisco, Chile’s very own grape-based liquor? If you’re interested in learning how Chileans distill this unique alcohol, and maybe even taste a few types, head up to Pisco Mistral, nestled in Valle de Elqui.
This watershed is located just a couple of hours north of La Serena and is well known for its dry air and clear skies. In fact, international organizations have deemed Valle de Elqui one of the best around for astronomical observatories. And local UFO fanatics claim the area is a hot spot for extraterrestrial activity. Although, we’ll let you judge whether or not that’s true.
An easy drive from Santiago & Valpo
It’s an easy drive, but probably more than a day trip from Santiago and Valparaiso. To make the most of your stay, I recommend finding a hostel in Vicuña and making a weekend trip out of it. From Santiago, drive 450 km north to La Serena. Then, head 90 hm east, and you’ll find the Valle de Elqui. More info on Valle de Elqui
So what’s next in Elqui?
When you arrive, you’ll notice that the atmosphere is perfect for growing grapes. Clear air and sunny skies allow agriculture to thrive. Locals even grow crops along mountainsides to make the most of their yearly product.
Here are a few ideas for things to do while you’re in this mini-paradise:
- Take a walk through Vicuña and explore the work of local artisans.
- Get your fortune told by a woman who specializes in the Mayan horoscope. Then, check out some of her handmade jewelry.
- Visit the Reservoir Puclaro, and if you have gear, go windsurfing.
- Check out the astronomical observatory, Mamalluca, just 9 miles north of Vicuña. You can get tickets in Vicuña.
- Take a tour of Pisco Mistral’s distillery. Learn how locals have been making this famous alcohol for years. The tour is in Spanish, but don’t worry if you’re not fluent—you’ll be able to understand the main ideas.
- When you’re done exploring, relax at Pisco Mistral’s restaurant and bar. Often there’s live music, and you can trust that you’ll get enjoy one of the best pisco sours around.
Surfing Concón, Chile
If you’re on the coast of Chile, don’t forget to visit Concón. Sure, it’s a bit of a bus ride away from Valparaíso, but it’s worth the trip. Rent a surfboard and wetsuit to catch some early morning waves. When you’re done, order empanadas to satisfy the hunger you just worked up.
When to go and where to rent a board
You wouldn’t go snowboarding without snow, right? Surfing is the same. The morning you’d like to surf, check the waves first. Use MagicSeaweed.com to look up the surf report for La Boca Beach in Concón. If you’re learning the best waves for you will be only 1 to 2 feet high. It’s also best if the day isn’t too windy—the waves will have a better shape and be easier to ride.
Take the bus to the tip of Concón (about a 40 minutes from Valparaíso) and jump off when you see Playa La Boca. There are a number of surf schools next to the water, and you’ll have no problem finding one that rents boards and wetsuits, and offers lessons.
Surfing + seafood empanadas = awesome
Image credit: http://escapeamericanow.blogspot.com
When you’re done surfing, trust me, you’ll be hungry. Luckily, Concón also offers a number of excellent, affordable empanada restaurants. Try La Casa del Mono or Las Deliciosas, which is just up the street.
Personally, I love both the crab and shrimp empanadas at La Casa del Mono. I always order two crab empanadas (jaiba) and then end with something sweet. Manjar (a sweet, caramel-like filling, aka dulce de leche) is one of life’s great pleasures. Order the manjar-filled empanada, and you won’t be disappointed.
Then who knows, order one more. ;) After all, you already had a great morning workout.
A view of a church in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
When traveling, I usually believe in the importance of minimal planning. It’s helpful to have a light guide to point you in the right direction, but nothing concrete. After all, if you plan too much, you might miss that surprise concert, café, or new friend along the way.
That said, there is no amount of planning that can prepare you for Rio de Janeiro. Even if you know your trip itinerary to the T, something will come up to shake things up a bit. Brazilians know this about their beloved city, and it’s embraced. They live life in the present and respond with a carefree, happy outlook that permeates the city.
The bus isn’t on time? No problem. The taxi driver just drove the wrong way two blocks down a one way street? No problem. All of a sudden a tropical storm passes through while you’re walking through Centro? It’s all good. Just go get yourself a fruity caipirinha or pão de queijo, and relax in a nearby café.
But it’s my job to help you prepare for the Rio experience, and so I’ll do my best to give you a few learnings. Here’s what I know:
Neighborhoods
No matter who you are and what you’re looking for, Rio de Janeiro is sure to please. If you’re a beach bum, looking to catch some surf and rays, try staying in Ipanema, the upscale, newer version of the infamous Copacabana. If you prefer the road less traveled and bohemian cafes nestled in a hillside jungle, check out Santa Theresa. This turned-around favela offers a mix of old and new, as well as charm. Party animal? Centro and Lapa offer a variety of night clubs and samba bars.
Tip: you’ve probably heard about the dangers in favelas. Stay safe and stay away from these neighborhoods. If you’d like to learn about the history of favelas and culture in Rio de Janeiro, sign up for a guided favela tour.
Hungry?
Brazilian food is fantastic, and no matter where you stay you’re sure to score a good meal. For breakfast, stumble into a nearby café and order pão de queijo and an espresso. Or go to a local market to try an assortment of fresh, local fruit. Pineapples, mangos, and passion fruit are plentiful.
Keep lunch light and affordable by grabbing a pizza. Brazilian pizza is a surprisingly delicious. Order it with ham, egg, peppers, and olive for a real treat.
After you’ve walked off your lunch by visiting Cristo Redentor on Corcovado mountain, opt for an early dinner. Brazilians love their meat, and as long as you’re not vegetarian, you’ll enjoy their large dishes of beef and rice. Check out Porcão Rio’s, one of the city’s best churrascarias, located right on the beach.
Nightlife
Finish the night at a club, in a local watering hole listening to live samba, or at an upscale Ipanema restaurant sipping wine—Rio is a jumble of everything. So no matter your taste, there’s something for you.
Tip: There’s more nightlife in Lapa and Centro than in Ipanema and Santa Theresa. If you’re staying in these neighborhoods, you might need to take a taxi to the bars.
Holy F#%kin’ $h!t Travel Photo of the Day
Capitán Pastene, Araucanía Region, Chile - Courtesy of Kunal Kalro
