Discover Santiago Chile: A Traveler's Guide

by Chris and Michael from ChartingOurCourse.com

Stepping into Santiago, Chile, is like entering a vibrant canvas where history, culture, and modernity blend seamlessly. As travelers who've explored countless corners of the globe aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey, we recently had the pleasure of immersing ourselves in this captivating South American capital. Forget preconceived notions of an overwhelming metropolis; Santiago welcomes you with a cool vibe, stunning architecture, and an abundance of green spaces that invite exploration [01:38].

Where to Stay and What to See First?

One of the first things that struck us was the city's inviting atmosphere. We found ourselves delightfully surprised by the beautiful architecture and abundant parks [01:46]. For a truly pleasant experience, consider staying in the Providencia area. This neighborhood is incredibly walkable, feels very safe, and offers a fantastic selection of restaurants and parks, making it an ideal base for your adventures [01:54].

Our initial plan was to marvel at the Gran Torre Santiago [02:07], the tallest skyscraper in South America. However, sometimes the best travel plans are the ones that serendipitously change! We stumbled upon a massive shopping mall in the same vicinity, and let's just say, our day took a delightful turn [02:15].

Shopping Extravaganza at Costanera Center

The Costanera Center Mall is more than just a place to shop; it's an experience in itself [03:06]. With six sprawling levels, it's where locals and visitors alike converge for a premier retail therapy session. Living on a residential cruise ship like ours means you learn to seize opportunities for finding unique items, and this mall delivered! We spent an entire day exploring the diverse array of shops, picking up everything from new clothes to essentials for our cabin [02:30]. It was, quite literally, the most fun shopping experience we've ever had [03:28], with one great shop after another [03:34].

A Taste of Santiago: Pisco Sours and City Views

After a day of exploring and shopping, there’s nothing quite like unwinding with a refreshing drink and delicious food. Our hotel's rooftop bar offered an incredible setting, boasting amazing views of the city [04:00]. The atmosphere was vibrant, the weather perfect, and the cityscape stretched out before us. We highly recommend trying a local "house take on the Pisco Sour" [04:25], a delightful Chilean classic. Paired with a grilled chicken sandwich, it was the perfect end to a fulfilling day [04:31].

For more insights into balancing travel and life at sea, be sure to check out our blog at https://chartingourcourse.com/charting-our-course-blog.

Diving into Downtown: Culture and History

Once rejuvenated, we headed to Central Downtown to delve into Santiago's rich cultural and historical heart [10:47]. Walking past the impressive Presidential Palace [10:54], we explored a truly remarkable cultural center. The city is also home to several small yet impressive museums, many of which are reasonably priced, and some even offer free admission [11:03].

A highlight was wandering through the charming pedestrian streets [11:27] of downtown. These blocked-off areas allow for a leisurely stroll through the city center, complete with benches for people-watching and local vendors adding to the lively atmosphere [11:40]. Surrounded by historical buildings, it’s a wonderful way to soak in the local vibe [11:48].

One museum that stood out was the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art [12:15]. It provided a fascinating opportunity to learn about the region's indigenous cultures, with many displays featuring helpful English subtext [12:22]. It’s a profound way to connect with the deep history of Chile.

The Heart of the City: Plaza de Armas

No visit to Santiago is complete without experiencing Plaza de Armas [13:19], the main square in the city's heart. This beautiful, historic square is a bustling hub where everything seems to happen [13:28]. Unlike some overly touristy plazas, Santiago's Plaza de Armas feels authentically local, with residents going about their daily lives amidst government buildings and businesses [14:09]. We visited the stunning cathedral [14:20] dating back to 1748, a truly awe-inspiring piece of architecture. It’s a wonderful place to simply hang out and absorb the energy of Santiago. One important note is to be ware of pickpockets and phone snatchers in the plaza. It's been known to happen.

Santiago truly offers a diverse and enriching experience for any traveler. From modern marvels and vibrant shopping to historical treasures and cultural immersion, the city has a unique rhythm that invites you to explore. For more travel inspiration and adventures from Chris and Michael, check out our DC Hidden Gems YouTube channel!

Sources:

• YouTube Video: SCARY Problems in Santiago Chile Away from Villa Vie Odyssey by DC Hidden Gems https://youtu.be/FTEZQnqX76o