You cannot visit Santiago...
by cikku
You cannot visit Santiago without having a look at the Palacio De La Moneda where President Allende was attacked by the military before committing suicide in 1974. Apart from the piazzas and lifestyle, the thing that struck me most was the humility and wonderful nature of it's people. Always happy and friendly despite the hardships that some of them endure. Make sure that you visit some of the coffee bars in Santiago
Mountain Biking in Santiago
by IIGUANA
Mountain Biking has become a huge activity in Santigo. There are really easy paths for begginers, and there are some that are quite hard, for the pros.
If you'd like to enjoy a good climb on your bike, then an easy downhill, then try the Cerro San Cristobal. There are 3 ways to start:
1. From La Piramide, in Las Condes, on Americo Vespucio Ave.
2. From Pedro de Valdivia Ave, just follow the street until you get to the bottom of the hill
3. From Pio Nono st, in Bellavista.
It's an easy climb, with lots of bikers on Saturdays and Sundays. I'd recommend going in the morning. It can get lonely during the evening (not recommendable).
If you want to go down not on the road, try going with someone who knows the path, otherwise you might end in the street down the hill.
Other good mbiking path is Huinganal in La Dehesa district and Santuario de la Naturaleza in Las Condes, close to the Andes. Bring your bike, a good helmet, and if it's summer, lots of water.
the gothic temple
by Popstar99 about Blondie
an interesting venue that attracts gays and straight people as much. Not long ago, part of a chilean movie (Sangre Eterna) was shot inside this gothic cellar. At least two dancefloors show videos and play the sounds of the 80's (Lots of Madonna, Boy George etc). Dress up, dress black, dress as you like
A terrific steak!
by Jivermo about Happening
Happening is located in the Las Condes section of Santiago, an international business area. I was greeted by the gracious owner, Rodrigo Safrana, upon entering, and our party was seated in the comfortable dining room. A large wine selection is on display, and Senor Safrana has a good knowledge of the varieties of Chilean wines. His English is excellent, and when I asked him where he learned to speak so well, he told me that he's a proud Bulldog, and had attended the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. The waitstaff are very attentive, and the ambience is quiet and relaxed. Happening appears to draw an international crowd, not surprising considering the location. Senor Safrana introduced to us his wife and young daughter who happened to be dining there, and his daughter presented my daughter with a wonderful crayon drawing of a ballerina that she had just finished. The food was delicious, and the french fries reminded me of the ones that I got in Germany years ago from fresh cut potatoes. They are excellent. If you are in the mood for a good steak, in a pleasant, well run family restaurant, you owe yourself a visit to Senor Safrana's establishment. The run of the mill American chain restaurants in this neighborhood cannot compare with the good local places, like this one, that abound here. Bon Appetit! Filet Mignon, and the "T" bone are very good. Do not miss the French fries.
Bali Hai Restaurant and Show
by kiwigal_1 about Bali Hai
For our first wedding anniversary we decided to go to the Bali Hai Restaurant in Santiago to check it out. The restaurant really caters to foreign tourists (either couples up to larger tour groups).
We enjoyed the Chile culture show but we thought the food could have been a lot better.
You need to make a reservation by calling the restaurant or online. There is a fixed price with several options you can choose from. You have a drink, appetizer, main, dessert and coffee or tea. This costs 18,500 pesos per person.