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| Valparaiso Travel Guide for backpackers |
Valparaiso and its nearby sister, Viva del Mar, are set on hills each of which is a like an individual town. With their twisted streets and amazing views they are totally enchanting as the light here is intense and the colours brilliant. Chile is more westernised than the rest of South America and names common here like O'Higgins, Simpson ect reflect the European heritage. You should go to one of the many beaches here to see the beautiful people, sun worshipping hedonists to a man, or women of course.
The port area of Valparasio with it's many bar's, underground taverns and sailors hangouts is fascinating and a little mysterious. The people are incredibly friendly and hospitable, so hang out with the locals here to get a feel of the real Chile.
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 DAILY BUDGET in VALPARAISO - Chile is more expensive than most of the other South American countries but you can still get a beef steak and french fries for US$7-10. Basic rooms come in at US$15-25 if you share a double and don't expect too much. A decent room in a pleasant hotel will cost US$30-50 and meals in mid range restaurants come in at US$15-20. |
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Beaches - The beaches that stretch to from Valparaiso to Vina are beautiful, each one has it's own individual character. Las Torpederas is surrounded by plazas and gardens; El Recreo has a seawater swimming pool and Vina del Mare 'the Pearl of the Pacific' is a gem.
Marador del Higgins - Alto del fuerto. This is a most important historical spot as it was used by General O'Higgins when he saw the Chilean navy off to aid Peru in its War of Independence with Spain. The view's are terrific.
Vina del Mare - is justifiably known as The Garden City, just 10 minutes north of Valparaiso it is set amidst a forest and because of its many parks and private gardens has an abundance of flowers. Visit the Quinta Vergura an old mansion converted to into a park
with huge beautifully culitivated gardens.
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Restaurant Bote Salvavidas - Muella Prat. Specialises in locally caught seafood and shellfish, well worth a visit.
San Marcos - San Martin Street, Vina. You get well cooked Italian food here in large quantities, very filling let your stomach have a rest before you eat here.
San Martin - Vina. Walk past the expensive restaurant ( unless you are feeling rich) and head for the snack bar or the large sitting room with it's awesome views over the ocean.
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The Municipal Casino - Vina. This is a must to see. Go for a drink, or even a meal, but avoid the gaming tables unless you want an early return home. Drinks are not cheap here but if you order a locally brewed beer the damage won't be too great.
Port Area Valparaiso - Mix with the sailors at their hangouts and get to know the locals, the bars are cheaper and more atmospheric here than in the town centre.
San Martin Hotel - Viva. If you want to see a highly skilled barman working at his trade go to the American Bar here.
Journalist Cafe - Nice multispace with a 4 differents djs and different music styles
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