Experience in Santiago, Chile by Lisbeth

How do you find living in Santiago? Do you recommend it? How is it?

Santiago is a well organised, quiet, clean and safe city in comparison to the other cities in South America.

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100% recommended.

Santiago is a city with a great youthful atmosphere, from going to have a beer at a pub with friends to going to the theatre to watch a play. What's more, you will feel safe walking around in the streets although I advise you to walk with precaution anyway. If you are bored and want to escape Santiago for a few hours, you can find several places to disconnect and relax.

How is student life in Santiago?

Student life is very exciting in Santiago. You will always find somewhere to go with your friends to spend time with them and to have a drink. The classmates in general are always motivated to organize parties but also, to study.

How much does it cost to live in Santiago?

Living in Santiago is relatively expensive in comparison to other cities. However, in searching for a bit of information on various housing websites, you could find a good alternative suited to your budget.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Santiago? Could you give any advice?

Finding accommodation in Santiago is a whole issue in itself. You have to take your time, get to know the areas and the prices well and choose which one suits your needs. I can recommend a website which will help you to find what you need. homeurbano.com

How is the country's food? What are your favourite dishes?

Mm... The food in Chile isn't so varied. It's going to depend on individual taste. If I had to pick a favourite, I think that it would be the lentils which are ideal for Winter. If you don't like Chilean food, don't worry because there are several restaurants serving foreign food: Peruvian, Chinese, Indian, Spanish, Mexican food, etc. There is no need to eat out. You can prepare something yourself.

Which places would you recommend to visit in Santiago?

The most typical places to visit in Santiago would be: Cerro Santa Lucia, Cerro San Cristobal, La casa de Pablo Neruda (if you like poetry), Lastarria (quiet neighbourhood to go to have a coffee or a drink), Bellavista (ideal to go out and party with friends), Cajón del Maipo (ideal if you want to escape the city and practice sports outside like rafting, trekking, kayaking and canopy) and an endless amount of mountains to do a bit of sport (trekking).

Cerra Santa Lucia

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And to eat in Santiago? Can you cite your favourite places?

They are Azotea Matilde, Patio Bellavista (a variety of restaurants) and the central market (if you want something more Chilean and traditional.

Which places do you recommend to go out and party in Santiago?

The Bellavista neighbourhood is a very exciting place to go out to party.

Any advice that you want to give to future students of Santiago?

Enjoy it the most that you can. Be careful when walking. Even though Santiago is certainly a safe city, they are always people who want to do harm. Don't trust people you don't know when you are at parties.