For me, no country in the world can come close to Chile thanks to the sheer drama of its natural landscapes. If you're visiting from the UK, the likelihood is that you'll also be spending some time in its modern capital, Santiago. Although it's not as well known as Argentinean neighbour Buenos Aires, there's no need to see the city as just a necessary stopover - there's plenty to see and do here, as you'll discover with my guide.
GETTING AROUND
Take the tube about town – it's quick, clean and efficient, even in rush hour. Trains depart every 3 or 4 minutes, and a journey costs around 30p, whatever the distance. It's a far safer option than the buses that fly down the main avenues at a rate of knots!
DAY ONE
On your first day in Santiago, a great way to put the city into context is to ascend Cerro San Cristobal for the best views of the city and the snow-capped Andean mountains that overlook it. I recommend taking the cable car from the Providencia side of the park to the top, then enjoying a cold beer or jugo (juice) in front of the panorama before taking the funicular down into the district of Bellavista. There you can sample some of the great local cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the district. Strolling down the streets of Bellavista, you can also pick up lapis lazuli souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy a beer or meal in any one of the city’s 'Liguria’s', a chain of restaurants. They're very informal, packed with locals enjoying a night out.
DAY TWO
Take a morning stroll through La Moneda, the former presidential palace, then walk along to the Plaza de Armas to best see the old part of the city. While you're wandering you'll pass fast food restaurants on practically every block, where you can pick up a cheap and tasty, typically Chilean snack called a completo, a hot dog filled with sauerkraut and fresh tomato. These simple restaurants are also great for people watching as locals dive in for a quick snack and chat.
Take lunch in the Mercado Central, near the old historic centre. Enjoy the bustle of this great building, designed by Eiffel, and try a great seafood dish after wandering along the fish stalls lining the market – I recommend ostiones al pil pil (scallops in hot garlic butter), followed by a pastel de jaiva (crab pie).
Later, if you fancy something a bit special, head to the bar of the W hotel for first-class cocktails, but remember to dress up!
Prefer to see the city with a knowledgeable guide to show you around in person? Take a look at our wide range of Chile group tours or contact groups@journeylatinamerica.co.uk
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