BID FOR HOSTING ITEA Annual Conference and School on Transportation Economics SANTIAGOCHILE JULY 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Invitation to , 3 Local Organizing Committee Letter 4 FCFM Dean Letter 6 Transport Minister Letter 7

2. Host Institutions 8 Universidad de Chile 9 Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences 10 Complex Engineering Systems Institute 11 Transport Engineering Division 12

3. Conference Venue 13 The Venue 14 Venue Facilities 14 Venue Access 15 Auditorium & Meeting Rooms Capacities 17

4. Welcome To Santiago 19 About Chile 20 About Santiago 24 Culture 28 Eat 32 Drink 33 Sleep 34 Travel 35

5. Timetable 40

6. Preliminary Budget 42 School Estimated Expenses 43 Conference Estimated Expenses 44 School And Conference Fees & Balance 45

7. Appendix 48 Recommended Restaurants 49 Recommended Hotels In Santiago 51 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11

12 13 13 14 15

18 19 23 26 31 32 33 34

39

41 42 43 44

47 48 INVITATIONTO 50 SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Santiago, November 5, 2014

Professor Robin Lindsey

President International Transportation Economics Association

Professor Sauder School of Business University of British Columbia 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Dear Professor Lindsey

We are delighted to bid for the organization of the 2016 Annual Conference and School of the International Transportation Economics Association. As a local organizing committee, it would be an honor for us to be in charge of both events. As members of the Transport Engineering Division at Universidad de Chile, we have participated in several previous Kuhmo-Nectar Conferences and strongly believe that crossing the Equator and moving the 2016 edition of the ITEA Annual Conference and School to South America presents itself as a matchless opportunity to disseminate, in this part of the world, the state-of-the art in transport economics research and lecturing, which is characteristic of this combined one-week event. Moreover, we believe that Chile, and in particular Universidad de Chile are the best country and insititution to host the event, for the first time, outside North America or Europe, given the number of transport economists doing academic research and the resources we have at our disposal.

Interestingly, in our country we have the rather unusual case that a Professor that has done high quality research in transport economics, Associate Professor Andrés Gómez-Lobo, is currently the Minister of Transport. Andrés has agreed to give a plenary talk at the conference to share his experience leading the transport ministry, should the scientific committee find this as interesting as we do.

We propose the conference to be held at the Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (FCFM) of Universidad de Chile (www.fcfm.cl), to which our Transport Engineering group belongs. Our faculty has all the necessary facilities to successfully run both the Conference and the School, from top notch infrastructure and technology to highly qualified human resources. The conference will be

co-organized by Instituto Sistemas Complejos de Ingeniería (www.isci.cl), a research institute to which all faculty at the Transport Engineering Division belongs.

FCFM facilities are at walking distance of Santiago´s city center and we are well connected to the rest of the city by frequent bus and Metro services. Conference attendees will have easy access to discover what our city has to offer in terms of historical and cultural heritage, gastronomical and touristic attractions. Complementing the academic program, we will develop an attractive social program for the attendees to get a glimpse of Chilean gastronomy and culture, as well as providing the opportunity to visit Santiago´s surroundings, featuring scenic vineries and sky resorts along the Andes Range.

Thank you very much for considering our bid to host the 2016 Annual Conference and Summer School of the International Transportation Economics Association.

Yours sincerely,

Leonardo J. Basso Chair local organizing committee Associate Professor Transport Engineering Division Civil Engineering Department Universidad de Chile

Alejandro Tirachini Member local organizing committee Assistant Professor Transport Engineering Division Civil Engineering Department Universidad de Chile

Karla Jaramillo Executive secretariat local organizing committee Institute Complex Engineering Systems Universidad de Chile

HOST INSTITUTIONS HOST INSTITUTIONS

Universidad de Chile

The Universidad de Chile was founded on the 19th of November, 1842. It is the oldest higher education institution in Chile. Generating, developing, integrating and communicating knowledge in all the areas of knowledge and culture are the mission and basis of the activities of the University.

• Among the first Presidents of the University are • The Universidad de Chile has 40.083 students: the founder, the Venezuelan humanist and jurist 29.442 undergraduate students Andrés Bello (1843 – 1865), and the Polish scientist 10.641 graduate students in Doctoral, Masters and and mineralogist Ignacio Domeyko (1867 – 1883). Professional programs Faculty: 3412 which 1420 are full time and 1087 with • The University is located in the capital city Ph. D. Santiago de Chile and it is a public university with international quality. All the areas of knowledge • 20 Chilean Presidents have been students of are pursued in their lecture halls and today the the Universidad de Chile (61% of the total). Also, university is at the top of the Chilean university the two Chileans who received the Nobel Prize, system with respect to teaching, research, creation Gabriela Mistral (1945) and Pablo Neruda (1971), and outreach. both in Literature, were members of the University.

• Faculties and Institutes: Distributed in five • 169 Premios Nacionales, the highest distinction in campuses and several experimental stations in the country (83% of the total), have been awarded Santiago and other Regions of Chile: in different fields to distinguished persons that 14 Faculties: Architecture and Urbanism - Arts - have been alumni, professors or researchers of the Agricultural Sciences - Sciences - Physical and University. Mathematical Sciences - Forestry Sciences - Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy - Social Sciences • Universidad de Chile is placed among the 500 -Veterinary and Animal Sciences - Law - Economy best higher educational establishments in the and Business - Philosophy and Humanities - World Ranking of Universities (University Shanghai Medicine - Dentistry. Jiao Tong) and in the tenth place among its Latin- 4 Interdisciplinary Institutes: Public Affairs - American peers in the Latin-American Ranking of Communications - International Studies - Nutrition Research Institutes (SCImago Research Group, and Food Technology. Spain). HOST INSTITUTIONS

Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences

The Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (FCFM, for its acronym in Spanish) has been in existence for over 170 years. It is focused on higher education and on the development of basic sciences, engineering sciences and technological applications. At present, it offers a Civil Engineering program with nine specializations, Geology, three bachelors of sciences and more than 30 graduate academic programs.

Its background, results and commitment to FCFM have an impact factor Q1. excellence, places it amongst the best Chilean and The Universidad de Chile obtained 131 from a total worldwide Engineering and Science Faculties. of 581 Fondecyt projects, becoming the leading The FCFM vision consists of a strong and solid research institution in Chile, of which 41 were from commitment to the nation and its students, FCFM, showing the quality of their researchers. addressing undergraduate and graduate training, Conicyt, through their program Fondequip, scientific and technological research, transference, awarded funding to 35 projects (at national level) of innovation and entrepreneurship, according to a which 5 were from FCFM. rigorous standard of excellence. The National Seismological Centre; the first wind The Faculty responds creatively and effectively to map; the first sustainable electric micronetwork the challenges imposed by globalization, the wide that operates in LatinAmerica; the first solar car; access to information and inclusion of the country the first autonomous vehicle; the first satellite built within the world stage. Its goal is to foster deep entirely in Chile; the first vaccine against alcoholism and active links with the productive environment, was developed at the FCFM among others. These meeting the current demands and exploring facts depict the importance of the Research and emerging developments. Research is conducted Development in FCFM. with increasing proximity to the needs of the country and society, contributing to the innovation and application of the latest technologies. The scientific excellence of the FCFM is confirmed by the many distinctions received by their members. Actually the FCFM hosts 13 National Awards (A distinction given every two years by the National Commission for Scientific and Technological Research). 54% of ISI publications originated in HOST INSTITUTIONS

Complex Engineering Systems Institute

The Complex Engineering Systems Institute (ISCI, for its acronym in Spanish) is a prestigious scientific research centre hosted at the Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences of the Universidad de Chile.

The Institute has 53 researchers from the has effectively contributed to establish a new Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Engineering research and education agenda within Católica de Chile, Universidad de Santiago de the country. Chile and Universidad de Los Andes. They include outstanding researchers and young promises; all of Since its creation the Institute has organized more them Ph.D. from renowned universities and authors than 60 international conferences in the fields of of several publications in international magazines engineering, economics and related subjects. with ISI standard. The Institute was funded in Some of these examples are the 8th Symposium 2008 by the Government of Chile, through ICM on Transportation Analysis, TRISTAN (San Pedro and CONICYT, in addition to private and public de Atacama, Jun 2013), the 9th International resources for applied projects. Conference on Transport Survey Methods, ISCTSC (Puyehue, Nov. 2011) and eight versions of TOI, an The work the Institute aims to bridge is the international Industrial Economics conference, gap between frontier research and important held every year. applications to problems where infrastructure, human behavior and management interact. This challenge has successfully integrated the techniques of engineering, operations research, mathematics, economics and management to creatively address interrelated research issues.

The essential mission of the Institute is also to establish a worldwide reference in Engineering research and education outside the USA and Europe, contributing to a better understanding of relevant problems and attracting high-level young researchers. By strengthening formal academic links among these different groups, the Institute HOST INSTITUTIONS

Transport Engineering Division

The Transport Engineering Division (TED), part of the Civil Engineering Department at Universidad de Chile, was created in 1971 to undertake teaching and research activities in the wide area of transport studies. TED is involved in both undergraduate and graduate academic programs, including a professional degree in Civil Engineering major in Transport (duration 6 years), a MSc in Transport Engineering (2 years) and the PhD program in Complex Engineering Systems (4 years). All of these programs take place at the Faculty of Physical and Mathematical Sciences of Universidad de Chile. Currently, TED is integrated by 5 full-time faculty, 7 part-time lecturers and research assistants and research students.

Our faculty develops research in transport two projects stand out: Santiago´s land use model economics, industrial organization, travel behavior, (MUSSA) currently commercialized by Citilabs urban economics, land use, big data applications, (Cube Land) and a Big Data project in collaboration network modeling, logistics and traffic engineering. with the Public Transport Planning Authority, In terms of research outputs, our faculty has which sheds lights on current travel behavior and published 74 articles in the period 2009-2014, public transport operations for the whole Santiago in some of the most prestigious international metropolitan area. journals in the transport and economics fields, including the journals of the Transportation Research series, Transport Science, Journal of Transport Economics and Policy, Canadian Journal of Economics, American Economic Journal (Micro and Economic Policy) and Journal of Industrial Economics. Furthermore, members of TED are part of the Editorial Board of Transportation, Transport Policy, Economics of Transportation and Journal of Air Transport Management, and have published a number of books as authors and co- editors, including Transport Economic Theory (Elsevier), Hybrid Predictive Control for Dynamic Transport Problems (Springer), Risk Habitat Megacity (Springer) and Transport Survey Methods (Emerald). Finally, regarding technological transfer, CONFERENCE VENUE CONFERENCE VENUE

THE VENUE FACILITIES VENUE Convivial venue with all facilities • IT equipment: Each department has at least The proposed venue for the meeting is the Faculty one laboratory with highly technological of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (FCFM, in equipment. its Spanish acronym form) at the Universidad de • Wi-fi: 100% coverage and IP phone system in Chile. The Beauchef Campus houses the faculty’s all the faculties and institutes. laboratories, classrooms, sports facilities, and • Libraries: 48 libraries, a digital library, 3.032.000 green areas. volumes, access to 60.000 electronic journals and more than 170 multidisciplinary databases The campus is located in the center of Santiago, its installations are comprised of two separate blocks, to support research and teaching. framed by the streets Blanco Encalada, Plaza Ercilla, • Cafeteria Tupper, and Club Hípico, and divided by Beauchef, • Sports and physical activity: Sport areas to upon which the main entrance is found. be used by students and professors. Inter- faculty sports competitions take place there throughout the year. The Universidad de Chile has 19 university sport teams. The FCFM has a heated swimming pool, gymnasium, basketball court, soccer court among others. CONFERENCE VENUE

VENUE ACCESS

The Beauchef campus is located walking distance a block down the street of the same name as the from the center of the city: station to the street “Ejercito Libertador”.

How To Arrive By Metro • Arriving at the intersection, turn left in the southern direction for three blocks until reaching Ave. Blanco Encalada. The closest Metro station to the Faculty is Toesca, on line 2. • Once there, turn right and go one more block, Toesca station: reaching the intersection “Vergara” street. • Find the exit in the western direction and walk CONFERENCE VENUE

• Cross Ave. Blanco Encalada to enter the Beauchef Av. Matta), Ñuñoa (Ave. Grecia) & Peñalolén (Ave. campus through the Geology building located Grecia). in Plaza Ercilla 803; or by Ave. Blanco Encalada 2002, where the Civil Engineering and Geophysics How To Arrive By Bicycle building is located.

There are various cycle routes that pass quite close How To Arrive By Bus to the Beauchef campus on Club Hípico and Ave. Matta in downtown. Transantiago bus routes that pass by the Beauchef campus are: Within the school there are spaces to park bikes.

• 506, from Maipú to Peñalolen, that passes down How To Arrive By Car Ave. Blanco Encalada. This is useful for those that are coming from Maipú (Ave. Pajaritos), Estación Unfortunately at this time, the Beauchef campus Central (Ave. 5 de Abril), Santiago Centro (Ave. does not have interior parking. Limited parking Matta), Ñuñoa (Ave. Grecia) and Peñalolén (Ave. can be found on the bordering campus streets of Grecia). Tupper, Almirante Latorre, José Miguel Carrera, • 507, from Pudahuel to Peñalolén, which also goes Domeyko and Claudio Gay, among others. down Ave. Blanco Encalada. Serves those coming from the neighborhoods of Pudahuel (Ave. José Joaquín Pérez), Quinta Normal (Ave. Mapocho & Ave. Matucana), Santiago Centro (Ave. España & HOSTCONFERENCE INSTITUTIONSVENUE

Meeting Rooms – Beauchef 851

Meeting Rooms – Salón Gorbea

Auditoriums and meeting rooms are all equipped CAPACITY with computer, projector, curtain, whiteboard AUDITORIUM microphone and wi-fi.

Auditorium Location Floor Capacity & MEETING

ROOMS Auditorio Humberto Fuenzalida Geología 3 92 (G108) Salón Gorbea Escuela 3 285 Auditorio Beauchef 851 Beauchef 851 1 196

HOSTCONFERENCE INSTITUTIONSVENUE

Capacity Meeting Rooms WELCOMETO SANTIAGO DE CHILE WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

ABOUT FACTS AND FIGURES CHILE • Full name: Republic of Chile Chile is a breathtaking land of mountains, desert, • Population: 17.3 million (UN, 2011) glaciers, dazzling lakes, and incomparable contrasts • Capital: Santiago on a colossal scale. A thin strip of land running some 3,000 miles down the Pacific coast of South • Area: 756,096 sq. km (291,930 sq. miles) America, flanked down the Andes. Chile stretches • Major language: Spanish from the belly of South America to its foot, reaching from the driest desert on earth to vast southern • Life expectancy: 76 years (men), 82 years glacial fields. Chile is known today for its solid (women) (UN) economy, superb infrastructure, and great wines. The country is an example of resilience, creativity, • Monetary unit: Chilean peso (CLP) and industry, placing Chile among the world’s most • Main exports: Copper, fish, fruit, paper and notable emerging nations. pulp, chemicals • GNI per capita: US$15,230 (World Bank, 2013) • Internet domain: .cl • International dialing code: +56 WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Torres del Paine, Chile.

Economy & Institutions with the world through unilateral tariff reductions (currently a flat rate of 6% and an effective rate of In a world of constant change, Chile is a beacon of about 1%), free trade agreements (FTAs), and multi- economic and institutional stability despite having lateral agreements. In addition to Chile’s success a rather short history after the dictatorship; Chile in international free trade and macro-economic ranks alongside the most developed economies in management, it has also made remarkable progress the world. It has attracted a number of well-known its reducing poverty: since 1990 it has slashed its multinational and foreign investors with its open poverty rate to 13% from over 40 percent in the and competitive economy. In December 2012, early 90s. This dramatic improvement is the result Standard and Poor’s upgraded Chile’s credit rating of ambitious and effective social policies and to AA- with stable outlook due to the resilience of economic growth that has averaged 5.5% since its economy. This upgrade solidifies Chile´s position 1990. as Latin America´s highest rated nation and puts its These positive macroeconomic figures though, credit worthiness on par with Japan´s and Taiwan’s. may mask a harsh reality, which today the nation Chile, one of the most open economies in the world, struggles with: a strong inequality, the worst for all has signed more free trade agreements (FTAs) than OECD countries. Chile has a Gini Coeficinet above any other nation. It had FTAs with more than 90% 0.5 and the richest 1% of the population holds of its trade partners in 2008, including Australia, 30.5% of all wealth. China, India, Japan, Mexico, the US, the EU and South Korea. It has developed its trade integration WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

An Attractive Business Hub led by Canada, Singapore and Denmark, with Chile placed between Norway and France and ahead of Chile was ranked No. 1 in Latin America and 19th Spain, Israel, South Korea, China and India. From in the world in terms of e-readiness and investment 2005 to 2008 Chile’s capital Santiago has been in attractiveness for the 2008 – 2012 period, according the top three along with Sao Paulo and Miami in the to the Business Environment Rankings published by yearly rankings of The Best Cities to do Business in the Economist Intelligence Unit. The ranking was Latin America, published by the business magazine WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

AméricaEconomía. In May 2009 the Economist within them coexist a diverse range of ecosystems magazine put Chile at position 17 in the ranking that have deservedly been declared World that measured the environment for business in 82 Biosphere Reserves. Chile is blessed with stunning countries, and the outright leader in Latin America. geographical contrasts; from Atacama, the world’s highest (and driest) desert, through the lush landscapes of wine country and the Lakes Region, A Connected Nation to the glaciers, mountains, and Pampa of Patagonia. Add to that the omnipresent Andes mountains, Chile’s advanced communications systems, 3,000 miles of coastline, 5 UNESCO World Heritage logistics, and world-class air and sea ports have Sites, and the world’s clearest skies, and it is safe to helped connect it to world markets and bridge say that few countries can boast such diversity. distances with other global business centers. There are 20 airlines linking the Chilean capital with the rest of the world, with daily flights to New York, Los Sustainability Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Toronto, Madrid, Frankfurt, Auckland, Sydney, and more than 30 The public and private sectors are working for the cities in Latin America. development of sustainable tourism by promoting the adoption of sustainable practices throughout Modern Infrastructure the industry. The aim is to position Chile as a sustainable tourism destination, preserving its natural and cultural heritage, as well as providing Chile is internationally recognized for its outstanding opportunities in socio-economic development in developments in the areas of architecture, all of the country’s tourism destinations and the design and both road and housing infrastructure, communities that inhabit them. with projects located in the most diverse of geographical conditions. Moving through Chile Climate is convenient, easy and safe, as the country has excellent land transport networks and air transport The diverse climate of Chile ranges from the connections. It has modern infrastructure, services world’s driest desert in the north (Atacama), certified to international standards, and a range of through a Mediterranean climate in the center, hotels that grows in quantity and quality in its main humid subtropical in Easter Island, to an oceanic destinations, as well as first class facilities that host climate, including alpine tundra and glaciers in the events for tourism development associated with east and south. According to the Köppen system, business and conventions. Chile within its borders hosts at least seven major

climatic subtypes. There are four seasons in most A Land of Contrasts of the country: summer (December to February), autumn (March to May), winter (June to August), and spring (September to November). The scenic contrasts of Chile are astounding. Its national parks total 14 million hectares and WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Santiago Oriente, Chile.

ABOUT SANTIAGO Founded in 1541 by Pedro de Valdivia, the Chilean and the somewhat run-down areas of Barrio Brasil, capital is today a modern, sprawling, and vibrant Barrio Italia, and Barrio Lastarria were given a metropolis with over 7 million inhabitants (40% thorough makeover and transformed into a vibrant of Chile’s total population). Flanked on one side public arts district, a laid-back and alternative by the Andes mountain range, and the Coastal nightlife hub, and a chic gastro area respectively. It range on the other, the city has a unique natural is also a clean, safe and friendly city with excellent backdrop. Today, Chile’s capital is a dynamic, infrastructure and countless options for visitors, modern city where colonial mansions sit among both within the city itself and nearby. Yes indeed. soaring skyscrapers, folk art becomes fashion Santiago has finally arrived and established itself and Latin and European cultures intertwine. After as a destination in its own right. It is an ideal living in the shadow of other great South American destination for Meetings and Incentive travel. With cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, the a world class hotel infrastructure of over 14,500 real boom came a few years ago in celebration hotel rooms within the urban radius, its excellent of Chile’s bicentennial. Santiago invested a small transportation system, a vibrant restaurant scene, fortune into the construction of cultural centers, and irresistible pre and post travel options, the city museums, and parks, across the city. Vitacura and is well and truly on the map. Las Condes bloomed with stylish new art galleries, WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Santiago Oriente, Chile.

Barrio Lastarria, Santiago. Neighborhoods to residences, office blocks, luxury hotels, and corporate headquarters for some of Chile’s (and Santiago is a city where the traditional meets indeed the World’s) leading companies. contemporary. Its historical center is home to countless monuments, quaint side streets, and Getting Around colorful plazas. This is also the administrative center of the city, where Palacio de la Moneda (the Santiago has an integrated system of urban Government Palace), ministries, public offices, and transportation which was inaugurated in 2008. financial institutions are located in a classic grid Santiago’s Metro system is the most modern and formation. Nearby, the Parque Forestal provides efficient in Latin America, comparable to that of some much-needed main green space. Clustered many European cities. 210 kilometers of urban around it in the tiny side streets – in an area known highways cross the city connecting the center as Lastarria – are local designer stores, cafés, and with commercial areas and the surrounding boutique hotels, a sign of the area’s resurgence neighborhoods. Taking a taxi in Santiago is safe over the past few years, and its status of one the and relatively cheap, there is a base price of 250 city’s hottest places to be. This is in sharp contrast pesos (USD 0.50) plus around 100 pesos for each to areas such as the leafy and stylish Providencia, 200 m driven (or per minute when waiting), no Las Condes, and Vitacura, which are a testament tipping is required for taxis. Taxis are in abundance, to Santiago’s constant growth over the past two both in the city and for journeys between the city decades. Avant-garde architecture abounds, home and Santiago’s international airport. The official taxi WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

La Moneda, Chile.

Parque Forestal

Barrio Lastarria, Santiago. Barrio Lastarria, Santiago. Catedral de Santiago, Chile.

companies have offices at the airport, and can be Oceania. Its location in Chile’s most populated area, found just after passport control. as well as in the central part of the country makes Source: Metro de Santiago of it an ideal main hub and maintenance center for most local airlines such as LAN Airlines, Sky Airport Airline and PAL Airlines. LAN Airlines accounts for approximately 82% of the total airport commercial operations. The Airport is owned by the Chilean Located a short distance from Chile’s capital, State and operated since July 1998 by SCL Terminal Santiago Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez Aéreo Santiago S.A. Sociedad Concesionaria, International Airport (SCL) is the county’s largest a consortium of companies formed by Agunsa airport and is one of South America’s key transport (Chile), Grupo ACS (Spain) andVancouver Airport hubs. The airport has domestic and international Services (Canada). The Air traffic control is handled services to destinations in Europe, Oceania, and by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (Chile). The Americas. In 2011 it was the 9th busiest airport in Its ICAO category is 4E. The airport functions as a Latin America and the 6th busiest in South America joint civil-military facility. It is the headquarters of by passenger traffic. It is the 7th busiest airport the Chilean Air Force 2nd Air Brigade and where its in Latin America by aircraft movements, serving 10th Aviation Group is based. 124,799 operations. It is also the only connecting point for air traffic between Latin America and WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

July in Santiago Shopping

The month of July is winter in Chile. However, the Shopaholics will be happy in Santiago, with myriad Mediterranean climate of the Central Valley means shopping options from knitwear, copperware and that Santiago the weather is milder than the rainy other handicrafts from local artisan markets, to the south, with average maximum temperature of 18°C, huge malls of Alto Las Condes, Parque Arauco, and with only a slight possibility of rain. Costanera Center, where international brands are plentiful. Lapislazuli – a semi-precious blue stone – Weather table makes for beautiful jewelry items. Patio Bellavista, a permanent craft market which also has very good restaurants, is a great place to pick up wool goods, jewelry and woodwork at good prices. Nearby you will find small artisan jewelry stores and the excellent Artesanos de Chile store, ideal for more indigenous crafts. WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Teatro Municipal, Chile.

Music & Dance CULTURE Music in Chile ranges from folklore, to popular and SANTIAGO classical. La Cueca is the national dance, while the music of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and Mapuche Chile has made a surprising contribution to the music from the south of the country are perhaps the arts; from fine arts to political rock, classical music more emblematic of the indigenous musical forms. to hip-hop. The city’s cultural offerings now rank Folk music exploded in Chile between 1950 and alongside those of Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and 1970, led by such groups as Los Cuatro Huasos and Mexico City. Santiago is reinventing itself, with arts, Los Huasos Quincheros. Perhaps the most famous nightlife, and restaurant scenes that have never composer of this period was Violeta Parra. In the been better, making this thriving and sophisticated mid-1960s, native musical forms were brought to metropolis into the civic, cultural, and historical the fore by the Parra family by way of a movement nucleus of the country. known as ‘La Nueva Canción Chilena’ (‘The new Chilean Song’), which was linked with social and political activists and reformers such as Victor Jara, Inti-Illimani, and Quilapayún. Another notable band from this period is , a majestic progressive rock band that fused psychedelic sounds with native South American instruments. The 1980s were marked by the confrontational Los Prisioneros, whose clever, politically-motivated WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

songs (with a strong anti-Pinochet message) Art became the soundtrack for an entire generation. The 1990s saw La Ley and Los Tres gain international Established in 1849 in the Universidad de Chile, acclaim, while today’s music scene is dominated by the Chilean Academy of has helped foster artists such as Francisca Valenzuela, Chico Trujillo, fine painting and inspire young artists. Chile’s most and Anita Tijoux, whose song ’1973’ was featured celebrated artist, Roberto Matta, a seminal figure in an episode of the US series ’Breaking Bad’. Chile in 20th century abstract expressionist and surrealist has also given the world an extraordinary classical art. Born in Santiago, he studied architecture pianist. Claudio Arrau (1903-1991) was known for and interior design, graduating in 1935. That his interpretations of a vast repertoire spanning spring, he journeyed from Peru to Panama and from the baroque to 20th-century composers such completed surreal drawings inspired by of many as Beethoven, Schubert, and Chopin. He is widely of the geographical features he witnessed. He first considered one of the greatest pianists of the encountered Europe while serving in the Merchant twentieth century. Navy, and during his travels he was able to meet artists like Arshile Gorky, René Magritte, Salvador Live Music

The city’s main venues for rock music are the modern Movistar Arena (www.movistararena.cl/) for large shows, and the Teatro Caupolican (www. teatrocaupolican.cl/), which is a particular local favorite. More intimate shows take place at the excellent Teatro Nescafé de las Artes (http://teatro- nescafe-delasartes.cl/), from such diverse genres as jazz, hard rock, flamenco, and electronica. Jazz lovers will enjoy the two latest hot spots; La Casa en el Aire (www.lacasaenelaire.cl), House Rock Sculpture, Museo de Bellas Artes. & Blues (www.houserock.c) and El Perseguidor (www.elperseguidor.cl). For classical music, ballet, and opera, Santiago’s wonderful Teatro Municipal (www.municipal.cl/) is the most important venue in the capital. Declared a National Monument in 1974, and among those who have performed here are Mikhail Baryshnikov, the Bolshoi Ballet , Zubin Mehta, Plácido Domingo, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, and Luciano Pavarotti.

Painting, Roberto Matta. WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Museo de Bellas Artes, Chile.

Dalí, André Breton, and Le Corbusier. Carlos oldest in South America), it was designed by the Sotomayor (1911-1988) is considered one of the French-Chilean architect Emile Jecquier in a full- main exponents of from South America. blown Beaux-arts style and is situated in the Parque Camilo Mori (1896-1973) was the founder of the Forestal of Santiago. The nearby Museum of Group , while Claudio Bravo (1936- Contemporary Art (MAC) has been the articulating 2011) was a hyperrealist who lived and worked axis of contemporary visual arts for over 50 years. in Morocco from 1972. With its rich history of One of the Museum’s most important objectives influences, from early native Mapuche and colonial is to lead the field of visual arts, particularly in Spanish to the more dominant, present day two aspects: to maintain and strengthen its role influence of America, Chile’s art scene is a mesh of as preserver of the national contemporary artistic forms, mixed to create a distinct Chilean style that memory, and to develop an annual agenda intended is prevalent in the country’s thriving contemporary to maintain its positioning as the country’s most art scene. important art center. Santiago’s art scene has taken root in affluent neighborhoods like Vitacura, with Galleries contemporary galleries like Galería Animal (www. galeriaanimal.com). The recently relocated gallery opened its doors with an exhibition displaying a The Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo collection of works by world-renowned artists such Nacional de Bellas Artes or MNBA), is one of the as , Joan Miro, Alfredo Jaar, Gonzalo major centers for and for broader South Cienfuegos and Roberto Matta. Sala Cero (www. American art. Established in 1880 (making it the WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE salacero.cl), is housed in a raw concrete building on within the lemon-colored, neoclassical Palacio the city’s fashionable shopping street, specializing de la Real, built in 1807 and the historic site of in art mainly from Chile. The first of this new breed the first Chilean congressional session. Perhaps of galleries, Isabel Aninat Galería de Arte (www. the best known is the splendid Museo Chileno galeriaisabelaninat.cl), is an art space that dates de Arte Precolombino (www.precolombino.cl), back to 1983, and is dedicated to promoting which houses more than 1,500 objects related Chilean and international contemporary artists. to indigenous life and culture throughout the Americas make the Pre-Columbian Museum one of Performing Arts the best in Santiago. Since it opened in 2010, the hugely controversial but fascinating Memory and Human Rights Museum (www.museodelamemoria. Santiago is known for its theater, including large cl) has shone the light on the difficult and fractious playhouses and small-scale, independent theater history of the Pinochet years from 1973-1990. groups. If you are curious or speak Spanish, try The museum’s displays are mostly multimedia the city’s well-regarded, vibrant theater scene. recreations of key moments, including film and Well-established theaters with high-quality, radio, newspaper clippings and personal writings. contemporary productions and comedies in an The superb English-language audio guide is a intimate setting include Teatro Bellavista and must for non-Spanish speakers. In stark contrast Teatro Alcalá, both in the bohemian Bellavista is La Chascona (www.fundacionneruda.org), the neighborhood. It is the Teatro Municipal, however Santiago home of the late Nobel Prize-winning that is the jewel in the crown of Santiago’s art scene. poet Pablo Neruda. Eccentric and absorbing, The neoclassical theater, Santiago’s main venue for the house is stuffed with books, whimsical curios, classical music, opera and ballet, oozes charm with trinkets, and toys he collected during his travels its sumptuous marble, red velvet and crystal interior. around the world. A fascinating insight into the life The National Chilean Ballet holds productions a fascinating man. from April to December, including contemporary and classic productions. There are musical events and special productions throughout the year; the best way to find out what’s on is to check the theater’s website. Elsewhere, visiting orchestras, the Fundación Beethoven, and contemporary acts play at the Teatro Oriente.

Museums

The city offers a wide range of museums, among the highlights are Palacio de la Real Audiencia/Museo Histórico Nacional (www.museohistoriconacional. cl), which holds a superb collection of more than 70,000 colonial-era pieces, from furniture to suits of armor to home appliances. This fascinating collection of artifacts is laid out in 16 display rooms Poet, Pablo Neruda. Neruda’s House “La Chascona”, Santiago. WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

EAT SANTIAGO

The culinary scene in Santiago is vibrant, with variations. Chileans love sandwiches, and a visit great food to be found in hole-in-the-wall ‘picadas’ to a local Dominó restaurant is the ideal place to (informal local restaurants) to more sophisticated sample their huge beef or pork sandwiches topped dining experiences in swish venues in the uptown with mayo, avocado, and tomato. Irresistible! areas. The finest dining and most innovative chefs are found in affluent suburbs of Las Condes, Dining Times Vitacura and Providencia. Downtown, dine late at night like the locals on traditional Chilean meals Santiaguinos dine a much later than in Europe and with a modern flair. North America. The more upscale restaurants don’t open for lunch until 1.00pm, and dinner begins at Dishes around 8.00, although most don’t start getting busy until well after 9.00pm. Most close between lunch Chilean cuisine may lack the color and flair of their and dinner, and many are closed on Sunday night. noisy, Peruvian neighbors, but there is nothing The more informal places—especially the bar/ dull about it. Seafood is terrific here, and several restaurant kind—don’t stop serving during the day, of the national dishes are based on this. Caldillo so meal times are more flexible. de congrio is a hearty fish stew, celebrated by the Chilean Nobel Prize winner poet Pablo Neruda in Dress Code his “Oda al Caldillo de Congrio.” . Machas a la Parmesana are razor clams topped with cheese, In the more high-end restaurants, people tend to white wine, and cream, and quickly grilled. Ceviche dress smartly for dinner, but rarely are a coat and tie is white fish marinated in lemon juice, and mixed necessary. In more informal places, no dress code with ingredients such as ginger, chili pepper, and applies. red onion. Other highlights include erizos (sea urchins), picoroco (barnacles), centolla (Antarctic spider crab), and the sensational lobster from the Tipping Juan Fernández islands. Meat forms part of many traditional dishes. Pastel de choclo is basically A 10% gratuity is standard in Chile. Some restaurants an earthenware bowl filled the brim with ground may include it automatically, so be sure to look at beef, chicken, olives, a boiled egg, and topped the check. Should service be particularly good, you with mashed corn. The empanada is a beef pie might wish to be more generous, although anything made with ground beef, although there are many above 20% is highly unusual. alternative fillings. Patagonian lamb is very good. The new breed of chefs perform makeovers of traditional fare, creating innovative and interesting WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

DRINK SANTIAGO

Wine Beer

Chile is a producer of excellent wines. It is no Until a few years ago, Chile’s beers were poor surprise then that most restaurants have an compared to those of their neighbors. Only extensive wine list. The good news is that apart Kunstmann, an independent brewery in the from the high-end restaurants, Chilean wine is southern city of Valdivia, made anything noteworthy. great value for money. A good bottle can be Today things are very different. Craft beers are bought a local store for under US$10 (probably everywhere, and there ae some excellent ones double that price in restaurants). The international too. Try the aforementioned Kunstmann in all of popularity of Chilean wine has grown dramatically its varieties, and Capital. For a lager-type beer, the over the past 10 years, and because Chilean wine local Escudo is probably the pick of the bunch. has moved slowly up the ladder into the premium and ultra-premium bracket, it is now capturing Other Drinks the attention of wine enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Chile’s wine tradition dates back to the Perhaps the most emblematic drink is the pisco days of the Spanish conquest, although modern sour, a heady mix of grape brandy, lemon juice, winemaking techniques and technology were only and simple syrup. It is the perfect aperitif, so start introduced in the late 1970s, when the Spanish your meal the way Chileans do. Chileans and winemaker Miguel Torres imported the first Peruvians are divided on who invented the pisco stainless-steel wine tanks. Chile is a winemaking sour (evidence leans in favor of Peru), but the drink paradise. Mother Nature has blessed the country was certainly popularized in this country. Beware. with a natural geography that creates the perfect These babies have a kick! Pisco can also be a terroir -- that is, a combination of local climate sipping drink, with new high-end brands on the and geology. ’s Mediterranean-like market creating a buzz (literally!). Among the best climate produces lots of luminosity and minimal are Kappa and Waqar. Vaina is another traditional but sufficient rainfall outside the winter months. Try local elixir. It is a mixture of port, red vermouth, Carménère, a smooth red once considered a lost creme de cacao, and egg yolk, making a deliciously variety after being wiped out in Europe, but now sweet and creamy drink. thriving in Chile. The country also boasts excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, elegant Pinot Noir, and crisp and fruity white wines, especially those from the coastal areas. WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

SLEEP SANTIAGO

The Basics Carlton, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Place, NH, Novotel, Ibis, Renaissance, Sheraton, Marriott, Hilton, With over 14,500 hotel rooms available (of which InterContinental, and Radisson are among the big 50% are 4 or 5 star), Santiago’s hotel infrastructure names in the Chilean capital. They will soon be ranks among the best in Latin America. Prices are joined by Four Seasons and Sofitel, just two of the competitive, especially in the month of June which 37 hotel projects currently underway in the city. is in between the two peak tourist seasons. In terms of the types of quality accommodation available, Boutique Properties there is everything from charming boutique properties to multi-storey international chain Not only is Santiago seeing an increase in large, hotels. international chain hotels, but the city has also Where to Stay undergone something of a revolution in boutique hotels over the past five years. Among the highlights Given Santiago’s curious mix of architectural are Lastarria Boutique Hotel and The Singular (both styles and socioeconomic levels, where you stay around the Lastarria area), The Aubrey and Castillo could very well shape your opinion of the city. Rojo (in Bellavista), and Le Reve Boutique Hotel (in The cheapest accommodations are undoubtedly Providencia). in the gritty downtown area, but you may find it somewhat congested with people and traffic during Mid-Range weekdays. The area does have tons of character found in certain parts, particularly in he Lastarría/ There are also some excellent 3-4* properties more Parque Forestal neighborhood, located on the east focused on business travelers. The Atton chain (3 side of Cerro Santa Lucía. Some visitors prefer the hotels in Santiago), is the perfect mix of creature upscale ambience of Las Condes. While it may lack comforts, functionality, and location. Plaza del the local color of downtown Santiago, it has superb Bosque (also 3 hotels) is another good example. infrastructure and a decidedly serious functionality. Somewhere in between the two is Providencia, with its leafy streets, restaurants, and shops.

International Brands

The arrival of large international chain hotels to the city is indicative of Santiago’s position as a major hub for business in Latin America. W, The Ritz- WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

TRAVEL SANTIAGO

Travelling in Chile or even a vacation in Chile will Santiago always involve covering large distances. It has affectionately been tagged ‘the thin country’, the Santiago sits in a valley between the coastal longest and narrowest on the continent, with a mountain range and the mighty Andes, all reaching length of 3,230 miles and an average width of only altitudes of over 7000m, with constant snow capped 120 miles. It is land of extremes, both in terms of summits that can be seen year round. A turbulent geography and climate. It has a long tradition of political past makes for impassioned art. Explore democratic government, a strong economy and the mind of Chile’s best-loved poet at La Chascona, a solid infrastructure; it is one of the most stable a museum located in Pablo Neruda’s former home in Latin America. The North has the Atacama in Bellavista. Then head to the Museo Chileno de Desert, the driest place on earth, scattered with Arte Precolombino near the Plaza de Armas for a a lunar like landscapes and home to the ancestral vivid glimpse of indigenous life and culture before indigenous Inca and pre-Inca civilizations. Central the Spanish arrived. A complete tour of the city Chile is similar to the Mediterranean, containing should always include a market, the enormous La the nation’s capital Santiago, a city surrounded Vega being the most entertaining. In a city that by fertile wine producing valleys and world-class never seems to stop for long, park yourself on a ski resorts. Continuing south takes you through bench on the Plaza and watch the world go by. At Chile’s Lake District, 12 beautiful lakes create a line night, head to Providencia for lively bars, Ñuñoa running north to south surrounded by lush green for cheap beers, or bohemian Bellavista’s cafe-bars forests, rapids, waterfalls and active snow capped and live music venues. volcanoes that dominate the landscape. From The neoclassical Municipal Theatre, Santiago’s Puerto Montt Chile’s land has been broken up into a main venue for classical music, opera and ballet, land of glaciers and fjords, with access to the south oozes charm with its sumptuous marble, red velvet being solely by boat or plane. Chilean Patagonia and crystal interior. If you are curious or speak is almost a separate country, and at one time even Spanish, try the city’s well-regarded, vibrant theater had its own government. Offering unrivalled views, scene. Wherever you go, you’ll never be far from untouched wide-open spaces, and the spectacular the signature drink, pisco sour. For a quick snack Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, it is one of the or lunch, grab a bowl of ceviche while taking in world’s last true wilderness retreats. Deep into the the cacophony of the Mercado Central, Santiago’s Pacific Ocean lies Easter Island, the worlds largest colorful food market. The finest dining and most ‘open air’ museum, and home to over 600 Moai – innovative chefs are found in affluent suburbs of Las giant stone statues thought to be over 800 years old. Condes and Vitacura. Downtown, dine late at night It is one of those places that stir the imagination. like the locals on traditional Chilean meals with a modern flair, such as beef marinated in cilantro or conger eel with barnacle sauce at Confitería Torres, the oldest restaurant in Santiago. WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Nearby Attractions zone par excellence for the Carmenere variety and remarkable syrah and Cabernet sauvignon. The Valparaíso is Chile’s most captivating city, and, valley is home to Chile’s new boutique wineries that accordingly, it is the most popular coastal produce almost exclusively for export. At the heart destination and an obligatory cruise ship port of of central Chile, Colchagua combines the best of call. During the 19th century, Valparaíso ranked as country traditions, hospitality and modern winery, a port town of such wealth that few others in the setting new standards in wine production as well as world could compare, but in the years following the an example in local development and integration completion of the Panama Canal, Valparaíso sunk through cooperation on all levels. Colchagua Valley into poverty. Today, especially on hills such as Cerro can be experienced aboard the historic “Tren del Concepción and Cerro Alegre, the city’s run-down Vino”, a steam engine train offering wine tasting buildings are experiencing a rebirth. With so many and folklore entertainment while passing by the gourmet restaurants and boutique hotels opening valleys most famous vineyards. The valley also has at such a fast pace, Valparaíso is quickly becoming some great hotels. the choice destination for dining and lodging on the coast. The historical importance of this city, White water rafting is a great option for those with paired with the vibrant culture of local porteños, an appetite for adventure, and wanting to escape is far more intriguing than Viña, a reason why from the city. The class III rapids in the Maipo UNESCO designated Valparaíso a World Heritage Canyon are the best. Site in 2002. A good off-the-beaten-track destination is the Wine is a big deal in Chile. Just outside the city limits La Campana National Park. This is a real treat for of Santiago, the scenery opens into a patchwork hikers and nature lovers. Located in the Valparaíso of poplar-lined agricultural fields and grapevines, Region, it covers approximately 80 square and tiny towns hearken back to a quieter, colonial kilometres and is home to one of the last Chilean era where it is common to see weathered adobe Wine Palm forests. Climbing Cerro La Campana homes, horse-driven carts, and dirt roads leading (Bell Mountain) is a great hiking trip on a day off. to Wine Country. Tours are available at a large From the summit, you can see the Pacific Ocean number of Wineries, but if a full-blown, 2-day, and on clear days as well as the Aconcagua mountain, in-depth wine experience is not for you, it would the highest mountain in the Americas. At 6,960.8 be best to stick with the handful of wineries that meters (22,837 feet), it is located in the province of are within a 1-hour drive of the capital. Concha y Mendoza, Argentina. Charles Darwin climbed to Toro is the most famous of all, and is Chile’s largest the summit on August 16, 1834. A plaque on the wine producer. For a more intimate, boutique path to the top commemorates his ascent. The experience the biodynamic Odfjell Vineyards, the hike last approximately 8 hours. There are some organic Santa Emiliana, and the very boutique Von lovely places to stay in the area too, and plenty of Siebenthal are the best. Coastal vineyards such restaurants serving traditional Chilean dishes. as Casas del Bosque and Casa Marín can also be combined with trips to Valparaíso. For full-on wine Skiing in Chile is world class. The country’s awesome programs, the Colchagua Valley stands out as the Andean terrain and excellent resorts are no longer WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

just a summer refuge for ski fanatics and foreign ski and year round good weather. The best base for teams, it’s now a hot destination for even recreational exploring the Atacama region is the town of San skiers, especially in July and August. In 2006, North Pedro, made almost entirely of adobe brick – a mix American guests came close to ranking number of local mud and straw. The archaeological museum one in client visits at the major Chilean ski resorts. holds an extraordinary collection of artefacts, whilst The allure? Andean skiing delivers a combination of its streets are lined with indigenous handicraft world-class terrain, glorious weather, and an exotic markets and its outskirts contain ancient ruins journey that is without peer. The novelty of skiing and thermal springs. There are many wonderful from June to October does have some cache, but places to see; one of the best is the Valley of the skiers have also discovered that the Andean terrain Moon whose unique lunar landscape is an amazing has everything from easy groomers to spine-tingling geological spectacle, transformed at sunset into steeps, and with so few people on the slopes here, a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows and orange. The that powder lasts for days, not hours. From mid-July El Tatio Geysers, at an altitude of 4,321m, are the to late September, a 3m (9 3/4-ft.) base of snow is highest in the world and are best viewed at dawn guaranteed. There are few lift lines, and passes are when the changing atmospheric pressure causes generally 50% cheaper than ski resorts in France, the geysers to erupt, spewing steam up to 10 Austria, and Switzerland. The ambience is relaxed meters high. The Atacama salt flat, stretching 50 and conducive to making friends and waking miles across is a blinding white mass. Interesting up late. The major resorts in Chile are top-notch fauna includes 3 types of flamingo, and nearby operations with modern equipment and facilities. major archaeological sites, geyser fields and quaint Resorts centered on the Farallones area, such as Andean hamlets. San Pedro de Atacama is also Valle Nevado, La Parva, and El Colorado, can be the starting point for trekking in the area. Due to reached in a 1- to 1 1/2-hour drive from Santiago volcanic eruptions, strange geological formations or the airport, and can be visited for the day. At protrude from the Altiplano and are surrounded by a little over 2 hours from Santiago, the venerable, emerald green lakes. Treks include the climbable world-renowned Portillo can be visited for the day, Licancabur 5,916m with its ceremonial alter at the but most skiers headed to that resort bunk in their summit. The town of San Pedro in the center has a all-inclusive hotel, which must be booked from first class hotel infrastructure, thus making it a center Saturday to Saturday during most of the season. for luxury adventure travel. RECOMMENDED STAY: Adventurous skiers and snowboarders are finding 3-4 NIGHTS that heliskiing lets them put tracks down where no one has before, and others are striking out and Patagonia visiting the country’s unsung, smaller resorts such as Corralco, where they find intimate settings and a Chilean Patagonia is one of the remotest and more “Chilean” experience. beautiful areas of the world, with lush forests,

deep fjords, spectacular shaped mountains and Atacama awe inspiring glaciers. Amongst the scenery is an abundance of wildlife including llama, guanaco, The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth, rhea, condors and Magellan penguins. Punta offering amazing scenery, numerous activities, Arenas, the southern most town of its size in the WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

world is at the tip and from Punta Arenas you can tourism infrastructure. But the many national parks take a cruise to Ushuaia (Argentina) around the and preserves give visitors a chance to immerse island of Tierra del Fuego which means land of themselves in virgin forest unique for its stands fire, named after the fires lit by Onas Indians; the of umbrella-shaped araucaria and 1,000-year-old early explorers thought the land was literally on fire. alerce trees immerse themselves in virgin forest This is where the sea and the mountains meet, the unique for its stands of umbrella-shaped araucaria Pacific and Atlantic oceans merge and the roaring and 1,000-year-old alerce trees. Chile’s southern 40’s blow; it is a legendary passage of water. The region is a multitude of lakes and volcanoes town of Puerto Natales, 3 hours north, is a wind and is also home to one of the most remarkable blown town reminiscent of a western film. Colourful indigenous cultures, the Mapuches, who, for wooden houses, hotels and posadas are scattered nearly 3 centuries, defended their homeland from across the landscape. The route north can be the Spanish conquistadors. Of particular interest broken up with an overnight stay in an ‘estancia’ is the chain of national parks that extends along (farmhouse), which provided superb traditional the Argentine border, with wonderful scenery of food and enormous wood fires. From here the road lakes, forests and volcanic plateaus. Adventurous heads into the best national park in Patagonia, travelers will find near limitless opportunities for Torres del Paine. hiking and mountaineering, white water rafting, mountain biking and horseback riding, among Inside, its trademark twin granite peaks preside other activities. For the more relaxed there are over a string of iceberg-studded lakes ranging hot springs to soak in, bird watching, lava caves in color from emerald green to aquamarine to to explore or an Andean lake cruise. Each of the grey, encircled by huge glaciers, waterfalls and towns in the Lake District contains excellent hotels, surrounded by forest. The park is a World Biosphere dining, shopping and diverse attractions for all Reserve with an abundance of wild flora and fauna, tastes, ages and level of fitness. RECOMMENDED a network of over 250 km of outstanding walking STAY: 2-3 NIGHTS trails, as well as a wide range of facilities making it Chile’s best-equipped park. RECOMMENDED Easter Island STAY: 3-4 NIGHTS

Situated in eastern Polynesia some 3,700 km (5hr Lakes Region flight) from mainland Chile it was discovered in 1771 on Easter Sunday by Spanish conquistadors on their South of the Bío-Bío River, Chile is transformed. The way to the Indies. Easter Island is a World heritage climate cools and becomes much more humid; dairy Site, but also the most isolated place on the planet. farms replace the vineyards; and lagoons, lakes, and It has been called an ‘open air museum’ on account emerald forests of ancient trees appear. The Andes of the Moai, or stone statues, of which there are lose altitude but more than make up for it in beauty, over 600 that can be found on the island, with 300 sprouting magnificent white-capped volcanoes. Moais on one volcano! Not all the Moais were This is one of the most popular destinations in Chile, finished, and many can be found at varying stages not only for its beauty, but also for the cultural and of construction, showing the elaborate carving outdoor activities available, and its well-developed techniques used with only rudimentary tools. The WELCOME TO SANTIAGO DE CHILE

Lake Cucao, National Park Chiloé, Chile. purpose of the Moai still remains a mystery and Self-Drive archaeologists are trying to understand this ancient civilization by interpreting the ancient language of If you steer clear of the desert and southern Rapa Nui – a Polynesian dialect. The inhabitants Patagonia, Chile is a great place for self-drive are mostly Polynesian and the Island itself is made journeys. Highways are excellent, the cities are easy up 3 volcanoes, each of which can be explored to get around, and going off-road can make for an on foot and the quiet little towns of Hanga Roa amazing experience. Instead of just hiring a car and and with their incredible stonewalls and making your own route, there are companies who birdman ceremonial sites adding to the islands can tailor an itinerary for you, providing a luxurious charm. In addition to the cultural and archaeological Land Rover Discovery equipped with GPS and interests, there are beautiful beaches, clear waters everything you need to get you from A to B, then and coral reefs, as would be expected of a pacific C, D... island. RECOMMENDED STAY: 3-4 NIGHTS

Chiloé Island

The “Great Island of Chiloé” is a land of myths and magic -- of emerald, rolling hills shrouded in mist, and tiny, picturesque coves that harbor a colorful palette of wooden fishing skiffs. With the exception of a few small towns, the landscape here by and large is pastoral, with a deference to development that tends to make travelers feel as if they have been transported back a century. Across the island, wooden churches modeled after a Bavarian, neoclassic style appear like a beacon in every bay; they are so lovely and architecturally unique that UNESCO recently deemed them World Heritage sites. RECOMMENDED STAY: 1-2 NIGHTS TIMETABLE ITEA2016 TIMETABLE ITEA 2016