Chile's natural wonders are breathtaking. Whether you are interested in exploring craggy mountains, deserted beaches, overgrown forests, or spouting geysers, you'll never be disappointed by the many sites Chile has to offer. If you are a little less adventurous, the city of Santiago, with its population of five million, is a thriving urban city.



The Chilean culture is amazing, although Chile is one of the lesser known countries of South America. Chile has a strong European influence which makes it even more appealing to tourists from the west. Parts of Sanitago seem to have a Parisian theme, perhaps due to the education of important Chileans for some many centuries. This French influence can be found in the art, architecture, and music of many parts of the country.

Arts and literature are strong and growing in Chile. The Nobel Prize for literature has twice been brought home to the country of Chile, first by poet Gabriela Mistral, and second by another poet, Pablo Neruda. Music is no forgotten art in Chile, and folk music has long been the release in which the people of Chile have been able to express their feelings after being oppressed by the military coup that occurred in 1973.

Santiago is not the only place in Chile which merits your visit. There are other places which are very beautiful and vibrant. The island of Chiloe, which is only thirty miles wide and 112 miles long, is a nature's paradise. Chiloe is connected to the mainland by means of ferry. The homes on the island are built on stilts due to the amount of rainfall it receives. This island has many volcanoes which presents a wonderful backdrop for you to capture in your camera.

Another must see if you're looking for adventure in Chile is the Torres del Paine National Park. This park can be found in southern Chile and is known as a biosphere park. You'll be able to view waterfalls and glaciers, and wander through dense and mysterious forests.

For a befitting end to your busy day, select and relish from a variety of Chilean cuisine ranging from seafood, beef, fruits, and vegetables. "Empanadas", is a well known snack food available on the streets of Chile and comes with a variety of fillings. Another snack food which is known to the westerns as the corn tamales is the "humitas", which is very delicious and deserves a try.

Bread is a central part of the Chileans cuisine, so you will you'll find a varied selection wherever you go. Potato bread is a particular favorite. One of most popular meals among Chileans is "lomo a lo pobre". Lomo a lo pobre is made by placing two fried eggs on top of a large piece of beef and serving with chips. Tourist should definitely give lomo a lo pobre a try.

A trip to Chile will be filled with fun and excitement, combined with amazing sightseeing in one of the most amazing parts of the world.