Overview
With over 5 million people living in the largest city in Chile, it's not hard to find restaurants of every ethnic background, four-star hotels, museums, theaters, universities and much more here. But don't let the modern landscape fool you. Just an hour outside the city limits, you'll find hiking, hot springs, skiing and other outdoor adventures.
Hotels
The Ritz-Carlton: Samantha chose to stay here, as it is the cheapest Ritz-Carlton hotel in the world. Rooms start at only $185 per night. Located on the red subway line, the Ritz is less than 10 minutes from the heart of downtown Santiago. With a panoramic roof terrace and rooftop pool, the hotel offers every amenity that the savvy traveler would expect from a Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
Web: www.ritzcarlton.com
Shopping
Pueblito Los Dominicos: Only five minutes from Samantha's hotel, this little escape from the city is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. Its streets are filled with more than 150 small artisan stores, selling such wares as handmade leather work, wood carvings and individually carved stone sculptures.
Web: www.pueblitolosdominicos.com
Sights/Landmarks/To Do
Cascada de las Animas: This haven of tranquility is located just one hour outside Santiago. It is situated high in the Maipo Valley, amid the Andes mountains. While there, Samantha peeked into some of the cozy lodges for rent. Travelers can find many activities to do in the area, from horseback riding to whitewater rafting. Samantha went hiking and also took a refreshing shower under a waterfall, with snow melted directly from the Andes - an endeavor definitely not for the faint of heart.
Web: www.cascada.net
Food/Restaurants/Bars
Opera Catedral: One of the city's best restaurants, this is a great place to start your evening out in Santiago. On its second floor is a hip (but not too hip) bar, where you can relax among the locals.
Web: www.operacatedral.cl
Clandestino Bar: For the intrepid traveler only: this place has no sign, and you can only find it by asking the locals! Clandestino is a great and welcoming spot to dance the night away to retro '80s tunes.
El Rey del Mariscal Ofrece: Without a doubt, El Rey is one of the best restaurants in the Mercado Central (the city's market). Richard, the owner, prides himself on the freshness and cheapness of his products. Follow Samantha's lead and eat a picoroco (giant barnacle) while you're here.
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