The Results of my Adventures

After several days of exploring, I have gathered some substantial knowledge of downtown Santiago.

The first day out, I went to my friend Anna's house for lunch with her family then to the pueblito, Los Dominicos. Los Dominicos is an artisan town that is set up with many little shops of local artist's works. It was a little too touristy for my liking but I did get to see some cute puppies!

The next day I decided to stet out on my own! I looked up public transportation with the destination of downtown in mind. I began on my 30 minute walk to the metro station, only to miss the first one and continue for another 30 minutes until the next one. A little discouraged, I went in to the metro and set upon my route. A while later, I arrived at Plaza de Armas, a plaza in downtown with some of the oldest buildings in the city. I walked around and made my way to Bellas Artes, where I found a lovely park and some down time. Finally, I headed back to the station to make my way home. The accomplishment of figuring out the metro, and later the bus system, was exhilarating!

I've made my way back to Plaza de Armas for about 4 or 5 days straight now, registering my visa and exploring. Here are some of my foundings:

A church in the plaza on a Sunday afternoon. The music was much more intoxicating in person.

A group of Chileans dancing their national dance, the cueco, on a Sunday afternoon.
"It originates from peasant folklore and some sources believe that it emerged as a symbol of the newborn republic in rebellion against the Spanish crown. The steps represent the cock stalking the hen, the amorous courting of a couple, or the cornering of a filly by a huaso (Chilean cowboy), which he is trying to lasso. Man and woman dance to the classic rhythm, twirling their kerchiefs in the air."

The changing of the Guard in front of the national mint, which happens every day in downtown Santiago.

Enjoying getting to know my new city,
Lauren Adele


P.S. My videography skills will improve..