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| Santiago Travel Guide for backpackers |
Santiago, as Chileans say, 'is Chile', as not only is it the capital politically, economically and culturally. With a population of over 4 million it is a modern westernised metropolis with a dynamic economy. Due to it's mixed European roots names such as O'Higgins, Simpson etc crop up everywhere.The people are friendly, sophisticated, gregarious and very proud of their country.
The Andes mountains from an awe inspiring backdrop to the hectic hustle and bustle of street life.
The city is made up of meandering streets winding round the many hill's so get those leg's in training before you arrive here. Although there are some funicular railway cars to help the less fit, or lazy, among you. If you are keen on skiing then there are a number of skiing resorts within an hours drive of Santiago.
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 DAILY BUDGET in SANTIAGO - Chile is more expensive than other South American countries but cheap local rooms cost about US$15-25 and a budget meal about US$5-10. Mid range lodgings cost about US$30- 45 and restaurant meals from US$10-25. |
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San Cristobel Hill - this hill is the first sight to impress a visitor, at 1,200 feet high and adorned with a statue of the Virgin Mary, France's gift to Chile. If you are not up to walking up the hill take the cable car which offers a 6646 ride to the terrace where there are gardens and walkways to meander round. This is the best sightseeing trip in Santiago as the views are awesome.
Santa Lucia Hill - More walking, if you were not fit when you arrive you will be when you leave. This hill is regarded as the birthplace of Santiago as it was here that the city was founded. In the 19th century it was transformed into a lovely, unique park. The hill is a kind of living museum as two fortresses still remain. Take a look at the city from the terrace of the Castillo Gonzalez, the view is fabulous.
Santiago Cathedral - As a Catholic country Chie's churches are amongst its most important monuments. The Cathedral was finished in 1788 and holds a magnificent painting of the Last Supper in the Sacristy.
Concha y Toro, Neighborghood - Concha y Toro is a small neighborghood near Metro Republica. European style. Two interesting restaurants: Tales, with jazz music and ully, for tasting wines from the vineyards in Chile.
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Casa de Cena - Almirante Simpson 20. This is where to go to get bargain priced chilean and International food.
El Naturista - Moneda 846. For the health conscious among you, try the natural food on offer here. Walking all day and Health food, at mealtimes, wow what a combination.
Les Buenos Muchachos - Cumming 1031. If you want to go ethnic try this restaurant. The menu features Chilean specialities and folkloric entertainment.
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Gente - Apoquindo 4900. A very popular Bar/Disco where you can let your hair down after all that walking, if you have got the energy.
La Scala - Cerro San Cristobel. Another Bar/Disco popular with the locals. Watch those superfit, supertanned young sophisticates enjoying themselves as only South Americans can.
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