We spent about 36 hrs in Saniago, just enough time to swing in, see the sights, eat some food, drink some beer with the local college students and then move on. For a city of more than 5 million people, it was surprisingly clean, safe and fun. There is a fantastic subway that takes you anywhere in the city, making it easy to explore.
We spent the first half day hiking up Cerro San Cristobal which provides great views of the huge, seemingly endless city. After the hike we went out in the Belle Vista neighborhood which is home to 3 univeristies and lined th street tables where you can order beer and chat with the (drunk) locals.
The second day was went on a 4 hour free walking tour. We learned about the fantastic Spanish architecture, saw the Chilean Presidential Palace, and learned where the local favorite restaraunts for cheap and unique foods were. After the tour we went to a market for Chilean made jewelry and clothing. All of it was beautiful, but a little out of our price range. So we jumped on the subway, went back to our hostel to grab our bags and jumped on the next night train out of Santiago to Pucon, Chile.
The View of Santiago from the top of Cerro San Cristobal
The Virgin Mary Statue on the top of Cerro San Cristobal
The Church in the center square, Plaza De Armas. This church has been rebuilt 5 times- 3 times for earthquakes and twice for fires. (We know that thanks to the walking tour:)
A contrast of architecture in Santiago's financial district.
Chile's Presidential Palace. The President works but does not live here.
More to come from more Southern Chile!!!
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