/ Embrace the Warmth and Adventure of Chile

by Anokhi Admin

Embrace the Warmth and Adventure of Chile

Aug 09, 2013

Get away from the cold, and embrace the warm culture of Chile. Bordered by the Andes Mountains to the east, and the South Pacific to the west, Chile is almost a linear country, with a width of no more than 150 miles at any given point. Midway along its length rests Santiago, the capital. Beauty and culture live vivaciously in this metropolis five million strong, exuding European charm.

Sweet Santiago Places to Visit

Bellavista

Tucked in the south bank of the Mapocho River lies the modish Bellevista, rich with Santiago’s culture and social life. Visitors and locales alike enjoy shopping and bartering for trendy treasures in boutiques that line the colourful streets, amongst neighbourhood theatres and art houses. By night, it’s the chic setting of clubs and bars, perfect for dancing and mingling until dawn.

Plaza de Armas

Be it for a couple of days or a couple of months, this city-centre square – El Centro – is a must-visit destination. Founded in the mid-16th century, the plaza was designed to be the heart of the city. As Santiaga grew, the Plaza continued to thrive as the centre of city life, surrounded by lush gardens and striking architecture.

Valparaiso Derby Day

If your visit to Chile falls in the country’s summer month, February, get ready to race! Race enthusiast or not, this is an event not to be missed as horse racing is a popular pastime for Chileans. Drawing crowds of thousands, the annual running mimics traditional British races in dress and attendee protocol, so put on your best togs, and get out those Chilean pesos to place a bet.

Iglesia San Francisco

A centerpiece of the city and one of its most historically significant buildings is The Church of St. Francis. Dating from the earliest Spanish settlements in the late 1500s, it represents Spanish Colonial architecture. The little museum within showcases historic works of art along with artifacts, and prominently on display is the legendary statue Virgen del Socorro, from Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia when he colonized the region.

Vian Concha y Toro Winery Tours

Santiago is poised as a world leader in vintage production, and it is definitely worth a stop at this popular wine producer, one of several wineries in the region, that hosts tours and wine-tastings. Visitors will appreciate that tours of Concha y Toro are offered both in Spanish and English.

Outdoor Escape

Chile’s Lake District

Spend a few days in Chile’s lake district and discover Pucon. The breathtaking view of the snow-capped Andes on one side of you, with lush flowers and lakes to the other side, is worth the drive south.

Mt. Villarica

While Chileans enjoy going to the lake district for fishing, rafting and geothermal hot springs, there is, yet, something more adventurous for international travelers. Adventure-seekers will be excited to hike up an active volcano, Mt. Villarica, and peer down the rim of the crater, geared with snowsuits, boots and picks, and guided by one of the many tour operators.

Outdoor Activities

Be sure to also make time for river rafting, tree-canopy exploring, and horseback riding and at the end of each activity-filled day, relax in the beautiful thermal springs.

Termas Geometricas

Indulge in the natural hot springs water in one of the 17 slate-covered pools dispersed along a half mile mountain steam, in the midst of the Villarica National Park. Named Termas Geometricas, the structures surrounding the springs are a work of architecture using strong primitive geometric elements. This unique opportunity allows one to experience natural elements in the midst of natural wilderness.

_{Useful websites

www.chile-travel.com

www.visitchile.com

www.termasgeometricas.cl

www.conchaytoro.com

www.museosanfrancisco.cl}

RESEARCH JAYANI PERERA
PHOTOS CHRISTOPHER AZNAR