South American Vacations

Chile is known as the Republic of Chile and is located in South America.  Geographically speaking, it is narrow coastal strip between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.  It is bordered by Peru to its north, Argentina to the east and Drake Passage southward.  The unique shape of Chile (often compared to a ribbon) has certainly had some effect on the climate; in fact, one might say a rather erratic effect.  Some parts of the country, such as Atacama, has a distinctly Mediterranean feel to it.  Other parts like the Alpine region in the south is often covered with snow, glaciers and lakes.  There is even a desert in the northern region.

Over 16,763,470 people live in Chile and gathers around the northern sections of the country.  Moving south, you would find more rural treasures, such as forests, plains, volcanoes and shimmering lakes.  Currently, Chile is one of South America’s best producers economically, as it has high political stability and globalization, yet low poverty and corruption reported.  Personally speaking, the people of Chile are known to be very friendly.  Chileans, as they are called, are polite and expect politeness in return.  Many of the people speak English and mirror the attitudes shown to them by tourists.  Therefore, behave humbly and you will be introduced to a very warm culture and people.  Dress in the area is modest and policemen are said to be among the most honest in Chile than anywhere else in South America.

When it comes to food in Chile, you can look forward to fried, meaty foods like Pastel de choclo, Empanada de pino and Cazuela de vacuno.  In addition to Brazilian specialties, you can also expect a steady supply of food straight from Western civilization.  Vegetables are common in Chile so expect a lot of vegetables with your main course.  Given the fact that Chile has a massive coastline, you can also expect lots of quality seafood, with everything from salmón to flounder, swordfish, scallops, oysters, mussels, turbot and more.  Chile is also popular for its tempered fruit, which is above the standard for most fruit and also cheaper than U.S. or European travelers are used to buying.  Chile is also known for making some fine quality wines and actually competes against major wine-territories like California, Australia and New Zealand for numerous markets.
   
Major Cities In Chile

Arica: This is a resort city that offers nice beaches and sun practically every day of the year, even in winter seasons. 

Iquique: Like Arica, Iquique has plenty of resorts and beaching activity, but is slightly more commercialized. 

Antofagasta: Known for the Atacama Desert and marine life.  For the past year, was in the process of being rebuilt into a more crowd-friendly tourist city.

La Serena: Offers museums, observatories and lush gardens like the Jardin del Corazon.

Valparaíso: Identified with local bohemian culture and contains many wonderful seascapes as well as unique architectural achievements.

Viña del Mar: A beach resort town but most famous for its Festival de la Cancion.

Things To Do In Chile

San Alfonso del Mar Resort: One item of interest is that Chile holds the largest swimming pool area in the entire world.  The San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo offers a swimming area open to the public that measures over 2km for one lap.

El Colorado: A top rated ski resort near Santiago.

Robinson Crusoe Island: Named after author’s Daniel Defoe’s “Robinson Crusoe”, which was inspired by the real life sailor Alexander Selkirk who was marooned on this legendary island.

San Pedro de Atacama: A popular tourist destination town for its geysers, wildlife, historical sites and volcano.

Chile Trivia: Chile’s most popular sport is association football, or soccer, and the country has been represented in 7 FIFA World Cups.