PORTS OF CALL - South America
Santiago, Chile
Chile's capital city and financial epicenter is a modern metropolis for sure, but you won't have to go far to be reminded that Mother Nature is a major shareholder. In fact, all you have to do is glance east for an amazing view of the Andes. Santiago's central location makes it the ideal gateway to all that Chile has to offer but you'll want make time to explore this stylish city too. It's stuffed with museums, monuments, art galleries, smart boutiques, walking trails, hip coffee houses and even a zoo.
While On Your Cruisetour
What would it feel like to call a 19th century palace home? Find out with a tour of the Palacio Cousino. This cushy former residence of Chile's wealthiest entrepreneur is dripping with imported European opulence.
On the hunt for an authentic Chilean keepsakes? Good news. Your tour includes a visit to Los Dominicos Handicrafts Market -- a charming crafters' village with over 100 shops. Here you'll find tons of treasures like woolen ponchos, copperware, paintings, pottery, jewelry and much more. So pack extra pesos!
Fun Things to Do
- Stroll the cobbled streets and admire the many architectural wonders such as the Casa Colorada and Iglesia San Francisco.
- If you're on the hunt for an authentic artisan experience, look no further than the sleepy potter's village of Pomaire. This holy grail of authentic Chilean ceramics is only a short ride from Santiago and is overflowing with everything earthenware from pots and plates to piggy banks.
Currency
Chile's currency is the Chilean peso. Many stores in Santiago take major credit cards and traveler's checks.