Chilean Lesson Uno:
Chileans are friendly, but never, ever pack nuts en tu mochilla. Ever.
Five steps from the airport exit and into the fresh mountain air, I am stopped by Chile's customs for smuggling goods into the country. Drugs? Nunca. What do I have? Bulk almonds, walnuts, and craisins hand-packed in snack size ziplocs.
Oh no.
Thirty minutes later I'm dripping sweat because I'm wearing my thick jacket as I thought I would be walking out into the Chile winter air within seconds. But instead, I'm slumped in a chair pitting out as I'm signing my name to documents stating that I was harboring x ounces of misc. dried nuts. According to Chilean law, my offense is a felony and punishable up to $4,500 American dollars. I would be lieing if I said I wasn't panicking a little.
However, the nice Chilean man smiled gently and carefully spoke English. You understand? This is a warning, but never do that again. Chilean law.
Si. (I think I galloped out the doors-as much as I could with a suitcase, pack, bagpack, and a large purse-sans the nuts.)
I think more than ever, my quote on the right rings accurate.
Update: The next girl from our program was fined the minimum, $200 U.S. dineros, for an apple. Ouch.
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