Stunning view over the Andes flying into Santiago… below us the city looks dry and brown.
Hungry on arrival we made the rookie mistake of going to mcdonalds – I havent eaten this in years so not sure why I thought it might have changed… no spanish so our order of cheeseburger, fries and juice ended up being a kids meal with yogurt and softdrink…. note to self – learn spanish before next visit!!
We spent our three days exploring. Thanks to La Bicicleta we spent a fun few hours cruising the streets and local markets on bright green bikes with my favorite accessory the handlebar basket. Great way to get yourself orientated to the cool suburbs.
We stayed at the Luciano K hotel. Wonderful rooftop bar and hang out area… room very noisy I and no external window, ok for jet lag with earplugs but otherwise maybe pay for a better room. Worst pizza ive ever eaten – truly! sorry luciano K but its true – hopefully you were having a bad day? Otherwise perfect hotel – very keen helpful staff, breakfast of champions and very comfy beds.
Highlights – bellavista neighbourhood graffiti and central markets. Walking around Lastarria neighbourhood at night with dinner at the gorgeous fun wine bar Bocanariz. Catching the train by myself to lollapolloza concert – loved chatting to all the environmental groups that had stalls at the venue. Pumalin park is extraordinary and I had no idea of the incredible work that Douglas Tomkins has been doing in chile and argentine. RIP – what a loss.
Lowlights – cats hanging out way to close to my milkshake before I drank it. Cats and dogs everywhere in this town. All look very healthy and happy which is nice.
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