One of the longest and narrowest countries in the world, and also one of the most beautiful, with incredible nature and delicious food — all this is Chile. So far away from us, but so alluring and mesmerizing. Today, we will embark on a journey to one of most remote countries.
Visa issues
Belarusians need a visa to visit Chile. We filled out a visa application on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Then we gathered all the necessary documents:
- certificate of no criminal record in the country of residence with an apostille,
- round-trip tickets,
- hotel reservation for the dates of the trip,
- proof of solvency — we provided statements for the last three salaries and a current account statement,
- photocopies of your passport.
Next, we were called in for an interview at the Chilean Consulate, where we were asked about the purpose and details of our trip. After that, all we had to do was wait, which, to be honest, was the hardest part. We submitted our visa applications on March 5, but didn't receive confirmation by email until May 8. So, make sure you allow enough time for the application process. The visa arrives by email and you just need to print it out. The cost is $60 per person.
How to get there
Since Chile is quite a distant country, you will have to spend a lot of time traveling. You can consider various options from Europe or take advantage of the opportunity to fly from São Paulo, Brazil, to the Chilean capital, Santiago. This way, you can combine trips to two countries at once. Most often, tourists do just that: any country in South America and Chile — that's the secret to a great vacation.
Buying plane tickets with different connections is not difficult. We found cheap tickets with the low-cost airline SKY, so the round-trip cost per person was $170. Such prices for similar flights appear often, you just need to keep an eye out for them. However, like any low-cost airline, SKY has very strict rules for baggage transportation. If you are not entirely sure about the dimensions of your suitcase, it is best to pay for extra baggage allowance in advance when booking your tickets.
There was no Wi-Fi at Santiago Airport. And we needed to get to the city center. After exchanging money for local pesos at the airport, we lost $20 on the exchange rate. Then we ran into some less-than-honest taxi drivers. So it's worth being careful and thinking about the internet situation in advance.
What to see in Santiago?
Our trip to Santiago took place in mid-to-late May. By this time, autumn had already arrived in earnest. Yellow leaves, cozy coffee shops, early pink sunsets—all of this gave the city an incredible atmosphere that makes you want to return.
Lastaria district
The area where we settled is located in the very center of Santiago and is called Lastarria. Compared to its Latin American counterparts, the city is calm and, at first glance, safe. You can, like us, choose an apartment, or you can stay in the best hotels.
In the Lastarria neighborhood, you can admire colonial architecture and relax in one of the many bars and restaurants. There is an entire street with lots of establishments where police officers are constantly on duty. My first impression upon arriving in Santiago was, "Wow, this is almost like Paris." Walking around the city, especially in the fall, was a real pleasure.
Santa Lucia Hill
The first thing tourists do is explore Santa Lucia Hill. The main reason to come here is to admire the huge, beautiful park. You can spend hours surrounded by greenery in the very center of the city. Paths lead to the top, as the park consists of several levels. There is a small market with local souvenirs at the entrance.
You will also come across a small church along the way. The view from the highest point of the hill is not particularly impressive, just ordinary city buildings. Still, this park is definitely worth a visit. Especially since admission is free.
Basilica of La Merced
The Basilica of La Merced is located nearby. They say that at sunset, it is impossible to take your eyes off it.
Arsenal Square
The next, equally impressive landmark of the city is the Plaza de Armas. The square got its name because, on the orders of conquistador Pedro de Valdivia, a powder magazine was originally built here.
That is why you can see a monument erected in honor of Pedro de Valdivia, who is considered the founder of the city. Of course, it is definitely worth coming here to admire the beautiful architecture.
What buildings can you see? For example, Santiago City Hall, the Main Post Office, and the Cathedral, where you can go inside and admire the interior decoration. We were even lucky enough to encounter the mounted police.
Despite the stern appearance of the police officers, at first glance, they were happy to pose for photos with tourists. In the square, you can take a stroll in a small park and even catch a chess competition.
La Moneda
La Moneda is a palace and also the residence of the President of Chile. In addition, it houses the Ministry of the Interior and secretariats. Many significant events have also taken place here over the years. Therefore, it is definitely worth a visit.
Mount San Cristobal
Mount San Cristobal rises 850 meters above sea level. It is probably one of the most beautiful and interesting sights in the city. You can get to the top by funicular or cable car.
Of course, there is also an option for athletes — on foot. Or you can combine both, as we did, and go up by cable car and down by funicular. At the top, everything is surrounded by greenery, just like the rest of Santiago. There is a small church with interesting images on the walls, a statue of the Virgin Mary, and an observation deck. If you are lucky with the weather, you can enjoy the view of the snow-capped mountains that surround the capital of Chile.
The tallest building in Latin America
The funicular from the top of the mountain takes a very long route, with two stops along the way. You can either get off in the middle of the park and take a walk, or continue to the final station. From there, it is not far to another attraction — the Sky Costanera building. It is the tallest building in Latin America. And, as in many skyscrapers, there is an observation deck on the upper floors. There are 64 floors in total, just imagine.
Local delicacies
Of course, thanks to its proximity to the ocean, seafood in Chile is very tasty. And if you order a dish with seafood, there will be a lot of it, not just for show.
Chile is also a country of crabs. Be sure to try them here. For delicious seafood and centolla, as crab is called, visit Ocean Pacific's restaurant. You will be amazed by the interior design, the size of the portions, and, of course, the amazing taste of the dishes.
Another delicious local dish is called empanada. This dish is common in many countries in Latam. Empanada is a pie that is dipped in egg before baking, and the fillings can vary. The most popular combinations are meat with onions, eggs, and olives.
Caldo de pata is just what you need to warm up during the cold Chilean autumn. It is a soup made from vegetables and chicken feet.
Asado is a very tasty dish similar to our barbecue. It consists of roasted chicken, pork, lamb, or grilled sausages.
Prieta is a Chilean blood sausage that can be served with potatoes or rice. It is also often included in asado.
As in Peru, the alcoholic beverage Pisco is popular in Chile. It is a strong drink, a kind of brandy.
You can spend an evening in Santiago at the cozy Patio Bellavista. It has a large number of different establishments and a very cool atmosphere.
Santiago is just a small part of all the beauty Chile has to offer. Traveling here is the best investment you can make in your experiences.
