Chile is a country of incredible contrasts. The Chilean people descend from a number of European settlers and from an indigenous population. The geography of the country is also remarkably diverse. From the coastal plains to the peak of Mount Aconcagua, which is the highest peak in all of the Americas. There is the wild and arid expanse of the Atacama Desert in the north and the icy wonderland of Tierra del Fuego in the far south. Take a journey into the wilds of Patagonia with its tall glaciers, tall mountains and abundant wildlife. You should also take a trip west to Easter Island also called Rapa Nui. It is a remote and windswept territory steeped in myth and mystery. Lastly, while visiting remember to leave time to explore Santiago, the elegant capital, with its tasteful mix of colonial and modern architecture.
Chile stretches along the south-western part of South America. It is a coastal country but the diversity of her geophaphy leaves its residents as well as visitors awestruck. The beaches of Chile are as breath-taking as her mountainous peaks (Mount Aconcagua is the highest in all of North and South America). Northern Chile is a land of expansive deserts and historical, archeological ruins. Places like Inquique are tourists havens. If you take a trip to Central Chile, her heart, you can visit and enjoy all the amenities of modern cities like Santiago (the capital city), Valparaiso, Maule, and O’Higgins. Travelers who visit Southern Chile are swept away the beautiful flora and fauna of Los Rios, Los Lagos, and Araucania.
Perhaps more diverse than the landscape itself, are the people. Chilean citizens descend from settlers from many European countries along with the indigeous Auracano. This amalgamation of people can be witnessed in the Chilean fare. If, for no other reason, the food should be reason enough to visit the wonderful country. The traditions of the country can be tasted in her food. Of course it should be not surprise that the highlights of Chilean menus is the seafood. This of course lends to expansive stretch of coast-line. If you are a fan of spicy dishes, then admittedly, Chilean food may not be for you. However, what it likes in kick it more than makes up for with the flavor combinations that explode in your mouth. Try some traditional meals outside of the typical touristy restaurants and especially the chain restaurants like McDonalds, Burger King, KFC, and Pizza Hut. Typical dishes that you will find on any restaurant’s menu, worth its salt, are Empanada de Pino (a crusty, turnover that is filled with meat, onions, olives, raisins, and even its of hard boiled egg baked to a golden brown), Cazuela de Vacuno (a soup that is made of beef, potatoes, carrots, corn on the cob, chunks of pumpkin, green beans, and rice), congrio frito (conger eel that is deep fried), ostiones a la Parmesana (scallops still in the shell, melted with butter, with grilled parmesan cheese), and of course ceviche (raw sea bass, minced, and marinated in lemon juice).
When you visit Chile you will be struck by the beauty of the country. It is truly beautiful but once you feast on her food, that is the guarantee of your return.