Every time I see this photo I smile. First, it’s a beautiful view! And second, I find everything about this photo – the early morning light, the still water, the reflections of the trees… – so calming and peaceful. Quite funny considering this was the day I lost my purse (more accurately I left it on a bus). When I snapped this photo, I hadn’t yet made the discovery that my purse was no longer in my rucksack. The discovery would come later, when I returned to this viewpoint to eat my lunch.
For my day in Villa La Angostura, I walked through Los Arrayanes National Park which is known for the Arrayanes tree. I really enjoyed the walk through the trees, and as I was so early I only saw one other person. A very peaceful walk!
I finished the walk at the above viewpoint. As I was searching for my sandwich in my bag that was when I realised my purse wasn’t there. A combination of panic and calm filled me at the same time. Looking back now, it feels quite strange and like I went through an out of body experience.
Stupidly, I had pretty much most of my cash and both my debit cards in my purse. So I was very concerned what I’d do about money if I couldn’t find my purse. Note to self was, even though I knew the well-known rule of separating cards and cash, apply it in real life! I did from then on!
I retraced my steps asking in the park’s registration office, fellow walkers, small shops etc…and I came to the hopeful conclusion that I’d left it on the bus. Somehow to my mind, it felt easier to find a purse left on a bus, rather than one that had fallen out my bag in the forest! Especially, as out of two people, I’d been the last person to get off the bus earlier that morning.
I started walking back to town (attempted a few hitchhikes but no one stopped) and hopped on a bus as it passed, explaining my situation to the driver. One of the passengers mentioned that he’d heard about a purse that morning – my hopes rose! And the bus driver messaged his WhatsApp fellow bus drivers group. To this day, I love the fact that they have a group chat!
The bus dropped me off back at the town’s bus station and I didn’t have to wait long for the bus I’d taken that morning to pull up. I ran up the steps and amazingly in the wicker basket at the front was my purse! Lucky me! I was so so relieved and happy, thanking the driver a gazillion times for finding it!
I returned to my hostel and immediately video called my sister to tell her about the day I’d had. As soon as video connected I cried! Until that point I’d kept myself together and calm. Now it was over, all my emotions came out in a rush!
I really liked the Bariloche and surrounding area of the Lake District. Renting a car would open up so many more possibilities for visiting places. I was somewhat limited by my own two feet and where public transport could get me. Next time, I’d like to explore by car!
To read more about my walk in Arrayanes National Park, click here…
