The capital city of Chile is Santiago, a very popular tourist destination. The greater Santiago areas is the largest urban area in the country and the city itself has a population of just over 200,000 people, according to the 2002 census. Although the city was once in shambles, it has been developed and renovated and is now not only popular, but also one of the most sleek and sophisticated cities in Latin America. This city now features a large suburban area, a downtown shipping are, and impressive world-famous architecture. Many important companies call Santiago home, including a number of financial institutions.
Visitors to Santiago, Chile can enjoy this beautiful city’s Mediterranean climate. The summers here, which run from November to March, and fairly hot and dry and are known to reach almost 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The winters in this city are more humid, with the average temperature being about 60 degrees. Few days reach temperatures below freezing, but snow is not totally uncommon.
Transportation in this city is fairly easy to use. You can fly into the city directly using the Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport. The rail system in this city is also fairly good, and the trains are all operated by the Empresa de los Ferrocarriles del Estado. The city has a central station called Estacion Central. You can also use the inter-urban bus system, which provides transportation from Santiago to most areas of the country. In early 2007, the city also introduced Transantiago, the public transportation system that includes bus lines and a metro network. This is system is fairly easy to use.If you enjoy music, there are many things for you to do in Santiago. Besides concerts fauturing a number of famous names, you can also find the Orquestra Filarmonica de Santiago, which performs in the Teatro Municipal, and the Orquestra Sinfonica de Chile, which performs in the theatre at the Universidad de Chile. There two symphonic orchestras are wonderful to see perform. The Club de Jazz in Nunoa is also very popular for tourists.
Visitors who enjoy being outside will find that a number of recreational activities are available as well. The most popular parks in Santiago include the Cerro Dana Lusia, the O’Higginds Pak, Forestal Park along the Mapocho river, and San Cristobal Hill Park, which includes the Santiago Metropolitan Park Zoo. If you enjoy skiing, resorts near Santiago include Farellones, Valle Navado, La Parva, and a number of other skiing destinations. There are found to the east of the city.
Wine is very popular in Santiago and in Chile on a whole, so certain areas surrounding Santiago, including the Maipo and Aconcagua Valleys are home to a number of great vineyards. Try Concha y Toro, Santa Rita, Santa Carolina, and Cousino Macul for some fabulous wine-tasting experiences.
Sports lovers often flock to Santiago as well. It was home to the 1962 World Cup final at National Stadium and also has a number of other soccer stadiums, including Estadio David Arellano, Victor Jara Stadium and Estadio San Carlos de Apoquindo. Beyond that, tourist may enjoy Santiago’s museums, including Meseo de Bellas Artes. There really is no limit of things to do in this great city.
If you want to visit Santiago, the best way to find tickets and other information is through you local travel agent. You can get cheaper reservation to this city, allowing you to spend more in shopping, especially at Plaza de Aemas, the downtown area of the city. No matter what your vacation dreams, Santiago can help you to relax and have a great time. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latin America.