Is Santiago a Place to Enjoy Life?

Santiago or Santiago de Chile, the capital city of Chile, is a cultural, political, and financial center with a population of over 7 million. Home to several universities, museums, parks, and malls, the city boasts a high quality of life index. Of course, as with any other destination, what makes Santiago enjoyable depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re considering a move to Santiago or planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about enjoying life in Santiago.

Affordability

In comparison to other cities in North and South America, Santiago is more affordable. The cost of living, housing, healthcare, and education is generally lower. However, like any capital city, the cost of premium goods, such as imported consumer products, is significantly higher.

Wealth of Cultural Experiences

Santiago is a vibrant cultural center with a deep history and a range of artistic offerings. Some of these experiences include museums like the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and the National Museum of Fine Arts. Music lovers can catch a performance at the Municipal Theatre or the Santiago Philharmonic Orchestra. Santiago is also home to several galleries, dance companies, and a bustling street art scene.

Education Opportunities

Santiago is home to several world-class universities, including the University of Chile and the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile. These universities attract students from all over the world, offering quality education and a variety of degree programs. In addition to its universities, Santiago also has reputable primary and secondary schools.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Within a few hours of Santiago, visitors can experience snow-capped Andes mountains, ski resorts, and countless hikes. During the summer, the beaches of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso are less than two hours by car. Santiago is also home to more than 30 urban parks, including Cerro San Cristóbal and Parque Bicentenario, perfect for picnics, walks, biking, and family outings.

Culinary Delights

Santiago’s culinary scene is booming, and it’s no surprise since it’s surrounded by fertile agricultural land and a long coastal stretch providing fresh seafood. Santiago is home to some of the country’s award-winning restaurants and chefs, providing an array of unique eateries. The city is also famous for its street food and drinks, including empanadas and terremotos.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Santiago boasts efficient transportation consisting of buses, subways, and taxis. The same infrastructure that makes the city accessible also underpins the telecommunications system, providing reliable connectivity. With many co-working spaces and private offices, Santiago attracts international businesses and entrepreneurs.

Security Concerns

Like any other capital city in the world, crime is a concern in certain urban areas of Santiago. However, with appropriate precautions, such as avoiding areas known for crime, staying alert in crowded spaces, and avoiding public transportation at night, visitors should not encounter problems.

The Verdict

Santiago may not be for everyone, but for those interested in a mix of culture, outdoor activities, and affordability, Santiago offers an outstanding lifestyle. The city has a lot of attractions, but also a good quality of life, the ability to enjoy the outdoors, and a long list of culinary offerings. If you’re looking for an enjoyable place to live or visit, Santiago should be on your list.

Insider’s Guide to Santiago de Chile: A Place to Enjoy Life

Santiago is the capital city of Chile, located in the central valley of the country, surrounded by the Andes Mountains. As South America’s second most developed city after Buenos Aires, Santiago features a fantastic, emerging economy and offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Attractions

Santiago offers exceptional attractions for tourists who want a deep understanding of the city’s rich history. Some of the top attractions in Santiago include:

1. The Santa Lucia Hill – This stunning hill situated in the city’s center has beautiful views overlooking the entire city. Visitors can take a walk up the picturesque hill and sit in the park at the top, watching the sunset over Santiago.

2. Plaza de Armas – Located in the heart of the city, the Plaza de Armas is one of the most historical sites in Santiago with remarkable architecture and surrounded by museums, restaurants, and other attractions.

3. The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art – With an exceptional collection of ancient art and artifacts, this museum is for people who love art and history.

Dining Spots

Santiago offers an extensive array of dining spots that satisfy every craving. From food trucks to fine dining, here are some of the top, must-visit restaurants in Santiago:

1. Donde Augusto – For people who want to try Chilean cuisine, Donde Augusto is a must-visit restaurant that serves exceptional authentically-created Chilean dishes.

2. Borago – Borago is undoubtedly one of the most famous restaurants in Santiago, featuring food inspired by ancient Chilean ingredients. For people who want to experience the essence of Chilean cuisine, Borago is perfect.

3. Colmado Coffee and Bakery – This luxurious and modern bakery cafe offers exceptional coffee and delicious freshly baked bread and pastries; It’s a perfect place to recharge and relax between your sight-seeing expeditions.

Cultural Experiences

Santiago is the cultural capital of Chile, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration of genuine Chilean culture. When in Santiago, some of the top cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss are:

1. Cerro San Cristobal – Get up close and personal with Chilean culture by taking a ‘funicular’ up to the top of the Cerro San Cristobal mountain for a breathtaking view of the city.

2. Exploring Bellavista Neighborhood – Bellavista neighborhood is famous for its restaurants, cafes, bars, and museums. Stroll the streets, enjoy some street music, and meet locals as they go on about their daily lives.

Local History

Santiago boasts a rich history that is incredibly captivating and worth exploring. Some of the top places to explore the local history of Santiago include:

1. Palacio de la Moneda – As the seat of the Chilean government, Palacio de la Moneda is an icon that plays a fundamental role in Chile’s rich history.

2. The National Historical Museum – This beautiful museum hosts a vast collection of Chilean art and artifacts, showcasing the country’s unique historical timeline.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

Santiago offers endless opportunities for people who want to explore beyond crowded tourist hotspots. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions for travelers visiting Santiago:

1. Cerro Provincia – This mountain is a great place for day hiking, providing phenomenal views of Santiago from above.

2. Cachagua Beach – While it’s a bit outside of the city, Cachagua Beach is a spectacular half-moon-shaped beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

In short, Santiago offers an incredibly rich cultural and historical experience while providing comfort and modernism for tourists visiting. Take your time, explore the city, meet the locals, and enjoy the opportunity to really immerse yourself in Chilean culture – it’s an experience you won’t forget!