March 4, 2008

• So Long, Santiago

  A tourist's first interaction with a country begins and ends with their Taxis. After a long flight, and upon arrival, everyone just wants to relax and get to their destination without a hassle.

  In Chile, we've lost a watch, my beloved hoodie that I got in Maui on our honeymoon, and an excessive amount of money due to the questionable business practices of the cab drivers. The negative interaction alone is enough for me to dissuade anyone from going to Chile. Easter Island is ridiculously expensive because they rob tourists for all their worth. Santiago leaves you stressed out because you're worried about the next person who will take you for your money.

  I don't like to travel while constantly looking over my shoulder, and my experience with Chile has left me with that nasty aftertaste. No matter how pleasant the city is, if you're getting robbed each time you go to a different location, you're just not going to like the place.

  On a happier note, we walked around Santiago Central upon the Lonely Planet's recommendation. By now we should know better, that the LP is nothing more than a general guide, and it makes you wonder if the people who wrote the book actually went to the cities they're supposed to be experts on. But I digress... After the walking tour of the major shopping center we went back to the hostel, freshened up, and made our way into Providencia. The neighborhood was nicer, and a little more residential. We discovered a restauarant on the 18th floor of this highrise, and had our last look at Santiago at night.

  • 11:27 am
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