Lastarria is a historical neighborhood in Central Santiago, located North of Avenida Liberador Bernardo O’Higgins (the “Alameda”). It is adjacent to the neighborhood Bellas Artes, Cerro Santa Lucia, and can be easily reached via the Universidad Catolica metro station. If the old buildings and artist hideaways of large European cities charm you, Lastarria, is an …
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How to Rent a Bike in Santiago and Tips for Riding
Those who enjoy exploring cities by bicycle will be pleased to know that many of the municipalities of Santiago have effective programs in place to encourage biking, and keep the activity safe and accessible. The communities Providencia, Ñuñoa, Central Santiago, and Las Condes are at the heart of this movement. Best of all, tourists do …
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Foods to Try in Santiago: A Suggested Eating List
Being located between the pacific ocean and Argentina’s reputable beef industry, it is no surprise that Chilean cuisine is made with such fine ingredients and is so palatable. Avocado, tomato, lemon, beef, and corn all feature prominently. Here is just a taste of some popular Chilean food options: Empanadas: Although they always have a rich …
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Estación Mapocho
Estación Mapocho is one of the most beautiful examples of architecture in Santiago. Its façade stands out as reminiscent of old European architecture, and many locals call its interior even more impressive. It is easily accessed via the Cal y Canto metro station and is close to several other tourist destinations, including Mercado Central and …
Customer Service and Gratuity in Santiago Chile
Customer service in Chile is not very different from most other nations with well-established service industries, and neither are the tipping procedures. A standard tip in Chile is 10% of the bill, particularly when dining. Restaurants are increasingly adding the propina to the foot of the bill, and the customer still has the option to …
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Cajón del Maipo
Cajón del Maipo there is something for the outdoorsman in everyone. Located southeast of Santiago, this canyon is an ideal and affordable location to experience the foothills of the Andes Mountains. This destination is most popular for camping in the warmer spring and summer times of year, although there are plenty of seasonal winter activities …
Being a Veggie in Santiago Chile
Vegetarianism is a fairly recent phenomenon in Chile, and growing ever so rapidly, especially in the capital city, Santiago. While this new concept may come off as strange to many Chileans who consider meat and fish staples of their national diet, vegetarianism is becoming far more accepted and normal throughout Chilean society. Vegetarians are popping …
How to Spend 5 Days in Las Condes and Providencia
If you find five days’ time to explore Providencia and Las Condes, it may be because you are staying in a hotel in the area. The side streets of Providencia are dotted with boutique hotels, and the luxury hotels a mile or two uptown in Las Condes are fantastic options for a royal getaway. Line …
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Must See Buildings in Santiago
Santiago bursts out of the Chile’s central valley with an eclectic blend of old Spanish colonial influences and sleek, modern architecture welcoming visitors to a modern city with hints of history. Since Chile lies on an earthquake zone, height limits for buildings explain the relatively “flat” skyline. Nevertheless, Santiago is home to the tallest building …
Santa Lucia Arts & Crafts Market
The Santa Lucia Arts and Crafts Market – aka Feria Artesanal Santa Lucia is your conveniently located, one stop Chilean and Andean souvenir market in Downtown Santiago across the street from the Chilean National Library and the Santa Lucia Hill. Just a few steps from the metro station Santa Lucia it is best to exit …