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Surrounded by a skyline of snow covered mountains, the city of Santiago is a picturesque scene. The history of this city is most apparent by the gorgeous architecture and galleries in the various museums. When you study abroad in Santiago you get the comfort and safety of a city combined with the authentic Spanish vibe of Chile. Each season here has something exciting and fun to do and you won’t get bored spending a few months here. The delicious authentic cuisine and sensual music that pumps out of dance clubs makes this city a very cool place to study abroad.

Santiago Pictures

Things to do in Santiago

Something that’s pretty unique to Santiago is that you an ski in the Andes in the morning and then go to the beach in the afternoon. Because of the climate here only the tops of the mountains get cold enough for snow. So even in late fall months or early spring you can actually spend a weekend doing both. The skiing here is really nice too. The mountains are also good for hiking and climbing. When studying abroad, many college students love taking weekend overnight trips to the Andes and spend some time getting in touch with nature. Around the city there is a lot too see as well. The Basilica de La Merced is a gorgeous church brightly painted red on the outside. Parque Metropolitano can be reached by the funicular or cable car. From the top there is a nice view of the city below and surrounding area. Downtown or Centro is where you can find the shopping and food.

Nightlife in Santiago

The nightlife in Santiago has a little something for everyone. If you are into wild parties there are plenty of great clubs that stay open until all hours of the night. If you are more of a quite scener then head to a lounge. Jazz bars are plentiful in Barrio Brasil along with Gay clubs and bars. Boomerang is a great place for pregaming. Vitacura is a little bit further away, but a fun time. There are plenty of bars and cozy places to hang out. If you are looking for something a bit more upscale, like a nicer night out with your friends try Isidora Goyenechea. This section of city has a cool atmosphere.

Colleges and Classes in Santiago

Santiago College is an international college for students who are studying from outside the country and want to stay in Chile. It offers many British-American classes and is one of the elite private colleges here. Most students studying abroad in Santiago will study here because of the wide variety of classes offered. There is also Universidad Del Pacifico, which is good to look into. And U Mayor has good reviews. Most home institutions, however will have relationships with certain universities abroad. So it is always a good idea to check ahead before booking classes.

Travel From Santiago

Beaches are the best get out of the city trip. Only a couple hours away by train or bus. Vina del Mar is the closest beach city to Santiago. When you come to the beach try the alfajor, a sugar cookie special to the area. The mountains, which are great for skiing, are only two to three hours away depending where you go. For hiking and thermal baths in natural hot springs go to Rancagua. This is a nice weekend getaway while studying abroad in Santiago. For spring break ideas head to Peru or Argentina for fun backpacking ideas.

Santiago Study Abroad Tips

• Be careful of pickpockets in Centro.
• If catching a football game, watch out for the “bravas” or fanatical fans. They can be rough and violent.
• Stay away from La Legüa if possible, the most dangerous neighborhood in Santiago.