Visit to Pomaire, Chile

Yesterday, we went to a cute little town called Pomaire in Chile. Its about 45 mins drive from Santiago. Sunday is a big tourist day there. Lots of people come from Santiago to enjoy the fresh air and country atmosphere. (And we I say tourists, I mean people from other parts of Chile. I was the only gringo for miles.) We caught a group performing the national folk dance Cueca. The dance involves the couple swirling around each other while both are waving a handkerchief. Everyone is dressed in the traditional costume. Note how the man's dress (complete with spurs) seems that he is ready for the rodeo.






Pomaire is famous for its pottery. They make everything for the kitchen and more. The streets of the little town are lines with the pottery vendors' stalls. I found all the prices to be quite low.




Also, there are lots of greenhouses too. Here is a photo from the biggest one. This old VW truck has a tree growing in the back. In front of the truck are some examples of the town's pottery meant for gardening.




A outing in Chile is never complete without a big meal. Here in a typical open-air restaurant, a grill-master is pulling out a tray of Pastel de Choclo from a wood-burning clay oven. Pastel de choclo is a typical chilean dish served in the ubiquitous small clay bowls made in this town. It consists of mainly mashed-up corn with beef and chicken, and usually an olive and some hard-boiled egg. Its a big meal.




Of course, I couldn't resist buying a few things. I got a big clay pot with a lid. It can be use on the stove or in the oven. Though I may just use it to serve soup or stew at the table with a clay ladel. Its about 13" in diameter and only cost $5.




Also I bought two large plates to cook pizzas on in the oven. And a large basket with a lid. This was from one of the more expensive vendors in the town. There were cheaper baskets in other places, but this was made of a more sturdy material. This lovely creation is about 2' 4" high and cost $24. This basket was immediately put to use a dirty clothes hamper.
Note: the lamp in the background was made by my parents. It is made of real books with a hole-drilled through them. This lamp makes a fun and (dare I say) scholarly addition to our living room.