AWASI PATAGONIA

My husband and I arrived at Awasi Patagonia with high expectations, and yet somehow, they didn't do justice to this exceptional place. We stayed four nights during the shoulder season in early March. We lucked out with the weather – the foliage was just turning, and we had perfect visibility all five days. It was a beautiful time to visit the region, and following our guide's advice on trails and daily activities, we often felt like we had Torres del Paine to ourselves. I highly recommend filling out Awasi's pre-arrival form well before your trip, so that the staff can prepare and tailor your visit to your interests as much as possible. Once we arrived, all of our preferences had already been carefully accounted for. The staff also recommended four nights as an ideal length of stay at our time of booking. While we were initially skeptical it was necessary, we have to agree that three nights would have been too short to enjoy the full experience, both of Awasi and of Torres del Paine. I want to start by thanking our guide, Liti, who made our visit such a lifetime memory. He demonstrated deep experience, a love for his work, and most of all, total commitment to ensuring our vacation lived up to its promise. There were small things, like remembering our preferences for lunch and drinks, but there were bigger gestures as well that we'll always be grateful for. He set up a picnic for us with an unforgettable view. He made sure we saw the full scope of the park, while ensuring we had time to relax and enjoy at the lodge. He always remembered it was important for us to pause and enjoy the wildlife. And overlooking the base of the towers at the top of Cerro Paine, we were floored by intense Patagonian winds, and yet he still insisted on capturing the moment in photos for us. We've been lucky to travel the world, but the food at Awasi was some of the best we've had at a hotel, city or country, anywhere – in part because the ingredients were thoughtful, in part because of the skill of the kitchen, but also because the service was so intimate and attentive. The restaurant staff comes to get to know its guests over the course of several days, and it makes the experience of returning to the lodge feel like a homecoming each day. We're thankful to Annie and others for such warm and memorable service. It's also the ability to customize your meals that make them such a treat. On our last night, we had a tasting menu to try everything on offer. Each evening, we looked forward to a wine pairing orchestrated by Gabi, the sommelier, whose joy for her work was magnetic, and who got us excited to explore Chilean wines once we returned home. And we were blown away by the skills and knowledge of the bartenders, Ignacio and Patricio, who came up with inventive and precisely mixed cocktails customized to our tastes. The entire trip was showered with small surprises that elevated the magic of our stay. The rooms were elegant – large, modern, timeless. But none

I can rate the Awasi experience more highly. We were fortunate to stay at all three Awasi lodges and every one of them was spectacular. Our Patagonia experience was simply fabulous. We were picked up by our personal guide Cristian who we immediately bonded with. Cristian was a fabulous guide who made our experience unique and very special. He quickly got to understand our likes and dislikes. He suggested amazing days out. I was unwell on our first full day out, and found the incline a little difficult, Cristian dealt with the whole situation in a very calm and encouraging way. The views each day were incredible, especially the walk in Torres del Paine. Little touches like the perfect home made soup and the wine that materialised, made each day even more enjoyable. The main lodge has amazing views and is tastefully decorated. Each couple stays in a beautifully presented lodge, tastefully decorated, spacious, comfortable, with the most stunning views and many special little touches that I won't mention in fear of spoiling the surprise. Each lodge has its own spa with a breath-taking view and a great spot for sundowners. The restaurant team and bar team are incredibly friendly and passionate about their craft. We loved the Awasi meal set up. A degustation menu each evening tailored to your likes and dislikes that was always spot on. If you fancy something light that is also catered for. We always went for the wine pairing as it never disappointed and we discovered many wines we fell in love with. I ahve probably missed something here, so I apologise to the team. We will definitely return. Thank you for an amazing stay.

Truly an amazing experience - everything, from the room to the food to the excursions was top notch and thoroughly enjoyable. A special recommendation to our guide, Ricky, who showed us an experience of Torres del Paine that was unforgettable. Could not recommend enough.